Burnout and Finding Inspiration Again

[@ChristianSchaffer]

Hey guys, thanks for watching!! And big thanks to BetterHelp for sponsoring this video - you can use my link betterhelp.com/christian to receive 10% your first month. Hope you're all doing well out there ♡

[@e.s.5529]

two words describe everything about you and what you do ...no bs seriously .......................Beautiful Connection. be good kiddo and stay safe-From TEXAS✌

[@stephainerose8765]

Taking care of yourself starts with your mental health it is so important. You don't know until you're there. And at that point it might be too late much love!

[@CaptR.B.]

Really enjoyed this vlog. Good energy throughout. That scenery seems to match your style of pinks, purples, oranges... Nice work!

[@RVingwithG]

Good For YOU! Go do you!

[@buffalo068]

Hopefully we are all changing and growing and therapy helps us over the rough spots :)

[@Humbledoor]

I'm 70 years young, watching your videos make me feel a lot younger. Love them and keep them coming....stay safe.

[@ChristianSchaffer]

Love that ☺️

[@joepeponis869]

Christian. I'm glad you are here! Your videos are inspiring and a pleasure to watch and I believe weather you know it or not that your story telling along with the amazing places you take us is doing a service much like your sponsor, a type of video therapy if you will. Speaking for myself I am always left smiling after watching one of your videos. The impact you have on others you may not be able to see but we here in the audience feel ya. Thank you and as always stay safe and enjoy the journey my friend. Joe P.

[@moses777exodus]

Happy Valentines Day! 😊 Best wishes always.

[@ChristianSchaffer]

Same to u!

[@moses777exodus]

@@ChristianSchaffer Thank you.

[@SFlaidlaw101]

It makes me feel less alone when people talk about burnout.💗 I feel like this year we've all been experiencing it. 😂😜

[@ChristianSchaffer]

Same! I think feeling uninspired is a natural part of the creative process - but lately it feels like we live in a world where constant creation and immediate sharing has become the norm rather than the exception 🙃

[@SFlaidlaw101]

@@ChristianSchaffer Uggghhh yes totally agree!

[@OcRefrig]

ive Never experienced burnout in my life before. 45 years of working. But since i had to slow down from covid lockdown im feeling it big time. it sucks !!! having such a hard time Getting going again.

[@nature10879]

@@ChristianSchaffer was the golden food you cooked sweet potatoes? Looks delicious.

[@bzznz]

Yes, sunshine does (and would) make life easier and prioritising makes room for inspiration. Your personal open and expressive narrated videos with epic sceneries and vast landscapes, are now like sunlight here in the Nordics during our dark wintertimes. I always look forward to this immersive experience on a big screen, with great sound - the scenes are like artwork on my bigscreen. They always inspire me - so thank you. As I consider aesthetics always to be (also) about value judgment - both the creators and the recipients - your personal videos (storytelling) brings (that) living substance to what you create, as well as many insights far beyond your pictures.

[@fleurvdelft]

I've noticed burnout in my work as well, and not just me, my whole team seems not as they used to be. I think everyone's had a tough few years and it's catching up with us. Be kind to yourself 💚

[@ChristianSchaffer]

It has been a weird couple of years 🤓 Thanks for sharing, it’s helpful to know we’re not alone

[@RichardTang96]

It's incredibly grounding and inspiring to see you live your life on the road and also prioritise the things that bring you happiness and nurture your well-being. I've been sharing your work with everyone I know and just wanted to say how much your videos keep me going. Thanks for being so open, I hope you continue on this wonderful adventure 😊

[@ChristianSchaffer]

Wow thank you Richard 🥲🙏🏻

[@MikeB-gf6dj]

@@ChristianSchaffer Hi. :) I agree with all that @Richard has to say. Between you and Mariah, you both make your mark on this earth with people you do not even realise. Your photography is amazing, your experiences and real life every day feelings and emotions mirror thoughts that so many cannot even begin to convey. Just to know someone else gets you or you get us is pretty cool. And to top all that off, you're sharing parts of this earth others will probably never see. Thank you for being you, and all that you do for all of us. Cool too to see you met up with Mariah & Flynn recently too. You're all so blessed to share the lives and intertwined friendships that you do, in your lives on the road. Live life love life be free. Cheers from NZ ! M.

[@edwestell9576]

This has to be my favorite video of yours. One, you shared your feelings. Two, the shots in White Sands were Spectacular! You absolutely fill each frame with spiritual lighting, & foregrounds which blend into the background. I constantly rewind sections to be sure I haven’t missed anything. Your spiritual rekindling really shows in your work. Thanks for continuing to share your story.

[@ChristianSchaffer]

Wow, thanks so much Ed 🙏🏻 White Sands is such a magical place, I hardly did it justice. The sunsets out there were something else

[@andrewlarson2753]

Yes, good to hear burnout being discussed so we all realize it’s a natural phenomenon. Love the White Sands, adding to my “I wanna go there” list. Beautiful job! Thx

[@mindfulmanna3883]

Your joy is palpable! Agree that video adds that ‘story-telling’ vibe you can’t always capture with photos. Thanks for sharing your heart!

[@thetheatrezoo3603]

You are an amazing videographer. Your visual since and your storytelling are so engaging and soothing.

[@thomasmason8033]

There’s something incredibly satisfying about your videos. I’m not sure if it’s the landscapes, your honesty/authenticity, the sense of freedom I see in you. It’s probably all of it. Anyway, I always find inspiration here. Thank you

[@ChristianSchaffer]

Thanks for the love 🥲🙏🏻

[@thomasmason8033]

@@ChristianSchaffer Of course 🤗🤘

[@amberwilson8154]

Since you inspire the world in your own unique ways, stay on the lookout because the world has a way of inspiring you back! Thanks for brightening my day!

[@ChristianSchaffer]

🤍

[@victorturpaud7082]

Christian, we saw you and Nathaniel there but didn't want to bother you! You have been an inspiration and source of inspiration to my wife and I and it is part one of reasons we became full time van lifers 14 months ago!

[@judithbyerly5888]

Christian, what an inspirational video! Your honesty & openness in that beautiful setting is such a complete package! I’m 73 and lived the scripted life of my era. I am just now finding my way out on wobbly legs not used to this much freedom of thought or deed. We shall see where this road leads - I surely hope it goes through White Sands! Blessings & love to you. Happy Trails always! ❤️🙏🏻😊

[@thinkplanetearth2946]

Wow... just wow. For me, this has been one of the more beautiful places you've captured. It's barrenness with contrasting colors and white sand, it's magical and surreal.

[@ChristianSchaffer]

Thank you 🥲🙏🏻 Its one of the more unique places I’ve ever been

[@TheCvele1974]

Amazing nature footage. Don't stress about new content or creating new stories. Just show up to these places, smile and press record button on your camera. Take your time. Anyone who's is going or has gone through burnouts knows it is complex. Basically a new lifestyle is calling you. Sometimes it is a drastic change, another time a small change in life is needed. You will find that out in nature. Best of luck and keep smiling young lady 😊

[@mtnbiker15d2]

Great video!! Sometimes its ok to become a passenger in life and let the universe drive the bus of life😊 with rest and diversion brings new and fresh vision. Love the shots of white sands. Take care

[@ChristianSchaffer]

Rest is definitely key 🔑☺️

[@GlenBarnett]

Watching your videos makes me yearn for the open road and the solitude of the desert. I guess it must get lonely at times, and as much as you’re pressured by your clients, the life you lead is one that I admire greatly. As a photographer, it’s perfect. Stay strong.

[@michaelwollschleager8514]

There is no better video than seeing a creator showing unconditional happiness. Thank your for sharing such a scenic location!

[@ChristianSchaffer]

This place really brought out the kid in me 🤓

[@john1970-n8k]

Big sky out there, you're so fortunate to experience White Sands. A lovely soundtrack for all those vivid colors bursting from the heavens! Well done, Thank you for sharing.

[@ARepublicIfYouCanKeepIt]

0:21 - Hands down, my favorite! All in all, a beautiful creation. Thanks so much for creating and sharing.

[@ChristianSchaffer]

Thanks John 🥲🙏🏻

[@xsweetl0ux]

I’m so glad I found your channel. I love your videos, they are truly beautiful and inspiring. They are almost therapeutic in a way. Thanks for sharing your journey with us. Xx

[@ChristianSchaffer]

That makes me so happy 🥲🙏🏻

[@NesKimStyle]

I love your style and how organised and clean you and your van are …it’s a pleasure to watch your inspired journey and wonderful videography

[@ChristianSchaffer]

Aw thank you 🥲💕

[@morganstensrud]

Crushed it again Christian! I always look forward to your footage, your story telling skills, beautiful videography and choice of music always brings me such peace. Thank you for sharing!

[@florinam3823]

Dear Christian, your are like the pink vanilla skies you picture😍 there's no other colour for you! I love all your work💜

[@ChristianSchaffer]

haha why thank you 🍬

[@DcodeThis]

Your videographical storytelling is truly astounding and unique. KZbin algorithm hasn't found anything similar to recommend. Video feels calming, fancy and even "sugar-coated", but the audio and commentary sparkles just enough realism over it. The viewer can fantasize about this lifestyle and freedom while still considering the benefits of a more grounded lifestyle. For me, it makes me want to explore and enjoy my local nature instead of dreaming of some far-away place somewhere, where things would be better. I'm in awe of this channel.

[@TheGroovyGuitarDude]

My wife and I are about to enter van life (actually small RV technically, but intend to make it fully off-grid) and are finding a ton of great information in your videos, and love the way you make them. Thanks for the great videos!

[@ChristianSchaffer]

Ah so glad you find them helpful! 🙂

[@Galiuros]

Beautiful landscape! When White Sands was still a national monument, instead of a national park, you could reserve a backcountry camp spot and stay a night. The majestic sunset followed by a full moon creates a unique experience. White Sands has to be one of the most photogenic places on the planet.

[@jeffcgardner]

Still can. They have eight spots, I think. Only deal is, they can't be reserved any longer. Available each day, first come first served.

[@buffalo068]

We lived in NM for 14 years !! It may be to early for you guys but we love the Santa Fe , Taos and Red River area ! We would hike and snow shoe even in January ! I will recommend one hike if you ever make it up that way , Lost Lake out of Red River ! There is probably a 14 foot wall of snow blocking the trail in several places now, but there are plenty of hikes out of Santa Fe ! The snow is beautiful . As so many have said , the WORLD STAGE has been difficult for a few years contributing to occasional burnout and mild depression I think for most of us ! As always , beyond beautiful photography ! Thanks

[@alicesullivan1790]

Christian, thank you so much for sharing your experience of White Sands National Park. I've been to many beautiful places in the US and Canada; but never White Sands. I can see why it inspired and energized you. Please take care of yourself, be safe, and continue to share your unique view through your cameras' lens, whether still photos or video. Your passion and talent are great gifts to the world.

[@ChristianSchaffer]

Thank you so much Alice 🥲🤍

[@JauntAbout]

Thanks!

[@ChristianSchaffer]

wow thank you, Tim! 🥲🙏🏻

[@ecothon]

Appreciate you & sharing your journey's experience. Wishing ALL much Peace, Health, Harmony & Contentment

[@gkimmes]

I always look forward to your videos. They are always extremely well done. Your photos, videography, narration and choice of music are spectacular. Thanks for sharing!

[@ChristianSchaffer]

Thanks for the love 🥲🙏🏻

[@colinbrowne8022]

Great story telling Christian, music , film, honest and personal..Love it..You go girl !!

[@ChristianSchaffer]

Thanks Colin 🙌🏻

[@autumnwong8724]

I am obsessed with your youtube and your hat in this video. Thank you for sharing more + more about everything you do. I am so excited to see what this year brings for you xx

[@MOVIMKR7]

Been a photographer for 45 years, burn out is healthy, after a 12 year break of professional work( I have always shot images in 45 years) I mastered my style spent time away from the “art directors” building a shorty, and starting to make short movies, commercials , I respect your journey and imagery, love your time and your imagery. Blessings on your journey

[@markk221]

it looks almost like a movie set.fake cold.nothing like i ever seen.awesome video thanks

[@ChristianSchaffer]

Definitely felt otherworldly

[@teresasaunders6842]

Seeing White Sands again is like a salve.I feel like I just got a little reprieve from all the chaos going on. Like a moment of escape. Peace.

[@Menelik.videos]

The cinematography is incredible!

[@erotichnaya]

So happy to see you together, guys!!

[@JauntAbout]

Thanks for being YOU! Your work truly speaks to me.

[@marktalley2550]

White Sands on a full moon night-absolutely cosmic.

[@ChristianSchaffer]

Ahh I wish the park was open past sunset. Would have been so amazing to see the stars there

[@3rubberboats]

Getting burnout happens to many. Am glad you managed to get fired up again. Really enjoyed this video in the White sands. You are doing great. Thanks for sharing this new adventure and have a super wonderful day. A white sand angel, WOW!

[@DeniseReedis]

I LOVE desert! This one is no exception. I now have a longer bucket list. Thank you.

[@janetgilmer7961]

Breathtaking scenery. Thanks so much for sharing this beautiful spot with us.

[@happyhomemaker3912]

Absolutely AMAZING!! Thank you for sharing with us and taking us along♥️♥️♥️

[@BBDos]

Hands down my fav YT channel. Inspiring. Thank you

[@kimberlis79]

I had never heard of White Sands National Park, but it is definitely now on my list of must visit places! Thank you for sharing your journey. Your videos always inspire me. I have been learning to paint with watercolors and your videos always have the best views that inspire me to get my brushes out. Enjoy!

[@ChristianSchaffer]

Ah that’s so cool! I bought some watercolors nearly a year ago and have only used them once 🙈 thanks for the reminder and inspiration to bring those out again

[@katiewarcholak1962]

Really loved this video. Reconnecting with nature is so great for burnout 🌿

[@litnoregrets7551]

I love your videos. They are all works of art. And now I need to add White Sands to my bucket list. Thank you for sharing and creating.

[@tylerengland2906]

I love this place. I discovered White Sands during a road trip I did back in 2018 that went across the US to eastern Canada. I traveled and lived in my van for a year in New Zealand a long time ago. This experience gave me a true feeling of freedom and a great memory for one of the best years of my life. :) I look forward to you next video.

[@spokinabout2236]

Best one yet! So much heart and joy - it's a real gift and a big boost. Thanks.

[@ChristianSchaffer]

Thank you so much 🥲🙏🏻

[@MOTrav]

Snow Angel in the sand. Nice touch! 😎

[@brianhall23]

What a great place for a video. The white sand and the blue sky behind you is a great scene.

[@Ftmhilo]

Every scene and moment is pretty and dreamy. Thank you for creating all these beautiful videos. Love you!

[@ChristianSchaffer]

Thank you for watching 🥲🙏🏻

[@mj7791]

Beautiful colors. Thanks for creating/sharing

[@eypeekaamino]

Seriously, when you feel like you need to cater to people's expectations and deliver the same level of quality videos and photos every time and you think you need to surpass yourself with every new project you work on...at some point, you just need to rest and take care of yourself every ones in a while. Being a content creator myself, I started traveling without a camera and I felt totally naked and thought it was a terrible idea. But then there's the magic of "unique experience" that only you have and you're not sharing it with anyone. That is a very great feeling to have. So I learned to embrace the unknown, try things I haven't tried and that's how I find things that inspire me and remind me why I chose to do the things that I love in the first place.

[@ChristianSchaffer]

Love that. I’ve been doing more and more hikes without my camera as well, and you’re right. It’s a whole different feeling just experiencing something rather than trying to document it

[@tonandmarc]

thank you, you are like a breath of fresh air for alot of people im sure.

[@richardsayer1533]

14 minutes of wonderful visual pleasure…..simply stunning 😍

[@Banagal]

The white sand seems to reflect the universe that surrounds it moment by moment with beauty and serenity. Thanks for sharing your creative travels to White Sands, NM. I’ve never been there…yet. There’s always a tomorrow though. Burnout is certainly affecting us all these last few years. And tomorrow is unknowable as time an unforeseen events befall us all.

[@ChristianSchaffer]

So very true

[@charlesharris2749]

Very impressive, Christian... your cinemagraphic skills are sizzling now! Great mood, perfect music. White Sands never looked so good! Glad to see you happy and productive. Happy Trails to you.

[@mattjohnson6227]

Taking photos just for me was something I really missed when I was making a living from it. And white sands is a magical place.

[@jeffadams7134]

AMAZING Christian. It's incredible how you find pristine beautiful subjects for your videos. It's good that you have company, and not alone on your ventures. It was a pleasure to watch your video after being in a massive car accident 2 days ago. Was provisioning to take a long sailing trip. Everything on my right side either broken or heavily bruised. Side impact at full speed.

[@ChristianSchaffer]

geez sending you a big hug, and a speedy recovery ❤️

[@jeffadams7134]

@@ChristianSchaffer Thx. I will need it. It will be a long one. More time to watch your great uploads. I already watched this one three times. That white sand is incredible!

[@deborah2214]

How beautiful and unique…the white sand! Where I am right now the landscape is just as white, but with cold wintry snow. I love the changing of the seasons! And I love seeing other beautiful places in the world through your eyes. Thanks for sharing! Stay safe and well!

[@ChristianSchaffer]

Thanks for watching Deborah, hope you’re staying warm ☺️❄️

[@deborah2214]

@@ChristianSchaffer Snug as a bug in a rug!

[@wadebantz1947]

Thank you again for such wonderful photography and story telling. I have heard of White Sands, NM but really did not know what it is about. Now I want to go! :-) And I must say watching your video is like therapy itself. I feel better after watching it!

[@MajerliActually]

I think about how you're solo doing all this, these edits and filming must take you FOREVER so cudos!

[@egtray]

When fun things become a job the fun can be taken out of that thing. Don't be hard on yourself for not wanting to do extra work even if it was something you used to enjoy. Appreciate you, glad I have your video to watch tonight.

[@ChristianSchaffer]

Thank you 🥲🙏🏻

[@edwincheng8364]

Christian, thank you so much for your sharing that we are not alone. Honestly why I love to watch your videos is I also feel burnout and pressured for long time. Your videos are always bringing me peaceful and relaxing as the places you go are absolutely amazing and beautiful. I think it is not merely the places are beautiful also because you are a professional photographer who capture them extraordinary too. Anyway, thanks for sharing and wish you all the best. Expect your next video.

[@ChristianSchaffer]

Thanks so much Edwin 🥲🙏🏻 I think feeling uninspired from time to time is a natural part of the creative process. You’re definitely not alone

[@SilverLumberjack]

Absolutely stunning shots Christian!

[@ChristianSchaffer]

Thank you, this place is so ridiculously beautiful - impossible not to share ☺️

[@djones014]

Thank you Christian. You always bring such symmetry to nature. You inspire me.

[@russelljackman1413]

Well, that was absolutely incredible!!!!! You captured some A-#1 fantastic footage, Christian! I NEED TO GO THERE!!!!! Thank you so much, for the inspiration, a glimpse into that part of this beautiful world, and ending it with a smile and a giggle! You did good (Great music, too--BONUS)! Thank you again! My Spirit feels better now.❤

[@ChristianSchaffer]

Wow thanks Russell! It is such a beautiful place - make sure to stick around for sunset if you go ☺️

[@russelljackman1413]

@@ChristianSchaffer Yer velcome, Christian! I definitely will stay for the sunset(s)!!! When I go, I will stay for DAYS! 😁😁 Take care, m'dear and keep smiling!

[@antonioruiz9563]

Insanely how relaxed your video got me, almost like meditation.

[@ChristianSchaffer]

Love that 🙏🏻

[@ReneeRoaming]

Loved this video Christian! White Sands looks like such a dream 🤍

[@DIESELPGDOG]

life is a journey,your life your journey remember the only thing that holds you back in life is you ,every thing else is a challange, thank you chris

[@reneem4962]

I love watching your videos for the spectacular scenery, they are very inspiring. I had not heard of white sands national Park and now I want to go!

[@ChristianSchaffer]

It’s such a beautiful place ☺️

[@kennethkawamitsu5048]

That landscape is absolutely incredible! Thank you for sharing as always ☺️

[@lylestavast7652]

gorgeous skies and compositions - so soft....

[@Satro.Gospon]

One of my fave proverbs is: If you don’t like where you are, move. You’re not a tree. I enjoy watching your vids, well shot and edited. Very fluid, easy to watch and listen. Look fwd to the new ones. Cheers!

[@ChristianSchaffer]

Love that 🙏🏻

[@jxhank]

When you made your sand angel, it brought back memories of our son Peter, stamping his name on the side of a little hill to send a picture of it to his mother.

[@teslah2997]

Wow!!!! What BEAUTIFUL, AMAZING pics of this place! Abd that was such a fun vid, too. I am so glad that you are newly inspired to produce vids……because I SO love to watch them

[@GunsNRoses87AXL]

I have hard time falling asleep at night - too much stress and things on my mind... Your videos are so calming and peaceful. I can actually fall rest.

[@ChristianSchaffer]

So happy you like them 🙂

[@MariahAlice]

Those colors make me want to happy cry.

[@stevecrombie5357]

Wow! Thank you very much Christian. I had heard the use of the initials NFT, and since you mentioned giving a try I went looking for more info. I read a couple articles and wept at the further realization that this old man is falling further behind than he thought:-)) But I have you taking me wonderful places sometimes solo and sometimes with friends, and I am blessed to have that.

[@ChristianSchaffer]

Well if it makes you feel any better, I’m already light years behind my colleagues when it comes to NFTs. The meta world moves fast 🥴 Thanks for always watching and commenting Steve, you’re the best

[@pamelarw58]

What an incredible place to meditate, feel your passion! Always love yourself as you are “beautiful” person! Very inspiring place to be & thank for sharing the serenity. 😍🌻🇦🇺

[@ChristianSchaffer]

It was so peaceful there - one of the few parks I’ve been to where you can truly find solitude without hiking miles and miles into the wilderness 🤍

[@pamelarw58]

@@ChristianSchaffer Enjoy your journey your fit out is lovely & practical! I would love to see your still shots are u on Insta? 🌻🇦🇺

[@randystuddard7174]

Great photos of White Sands! You should visit mountain town of Cloudcroft, NM which is very close to White Sands north of Alamogordo. Cloudcroft is beautiful with lots of streams and pine trees! Enjoy! 😇

[@canadadog]

My all time favorite channel!

[@jamesbaileymyhealthjourney6469]

Another beautiful video! I’m glad you’ve found your inspiration again and that your smile is bright. Keep being the best!!

[@aqueousone]

What a beautiful video... so worth the wait.

[@owenparker6651]

It's all-important to constantly be giving those roses a damn good smelling! Always a pleasure watching you do some smelling of your own. Thanks for sharing!

[@ChristianSchaffer]

That’s always the goal ☺️

[@paulandrewmartin]

I love it, keep warm Christian! Til next video! More power!

[@brads.3674]

New Mexico looks lovely. I’ve driven through a few times - only stopping for gas and food. Now I see I will have to back some day and look around a little while. Thanks for sharing your thoughts and times. Safe travels.

[@ChristianSchaffer]

Yeah I’ve barely scratched the surface of New Mexico, but I already want to go back! Seems to be a lot of hidden gems out there

[@gfawhiterose8838]

Wow! I usually never comment on videos. This time you made me do it. What a beautiful place. Like no other, difficult to describe. Almost another planet. Hope doesn’t get popular and destroyed by people. Thank you for beautiful images.

[@ChristianSchaffer]

Thanks! Yeah I agree - it’s quite a ways off the beaten path (5 hour drive from Phoenix) so it requires some planning and intention to get there. I’m not sure what it looks like in warmer weather, but it only took a 5-10 minute walk to be in total solitude which was 👌🏻

[@olddav1]

new to your channel, I am blown away with your photography. You have a real eye for it.

[@sortbum]

The sky at 00:00:20 and then (breakfast) tacos. Heaven. 😍 That’s all the inspiration I need right there 😄

[@rcjp]

The colours, my god the colours in this video are sublime.

[@ChristianSchaffer]

The skies out there were something else

[@ljg6979]

Another "typical" video of yours. The imagery is always just simply gorgeous. I haven't been to White Sands since I was a kid, but I'm putting it on the list.

[@KB95675]

You’re one of my favorite videographers. This video really moved me, the combination of the music, the exquisite scenery with your honesty and pure joy in the end.. bravissimo!! Thank you thank you thank you!! It helped to release some cellular emotion. ❤️

[@ChristianSchaffer]

Thanks so much Kerry 🥲🙏🏻

[@ShadeTreeKennyT]

Amazing views, the sunsets were incredible. The snow angel at the end really did look like snow. I had no idea you could sled ride on sand either. Awesome video.

[@ChristianSchaffer]

The clips at the end are actual snow 😉 A snowstorm moved through just before I left