I can't be productive right now (and that's okay)

[@FranMeneses]

Emily, a super wise Patron, told me today: "So you may not have produced a graphic novel [during this pandemic], but you may have produced new ways of coping, a calmer nervous system, a few new perspectives, some new or closer relationships, and new personal understanding." WHAT A JEWEL. It helped me so so much to hear this, I hope this helps you too.

[@eliadelaguerra]

Gracias Fran por compartir/te/nos y ser y estar tan cerquita en estos tiempos complejos.

[@victoriarem1258]

Hi Fran, as an artist myself, may I suggest you experimenting? yeap! do some stuff you'd never try before is pretty usefull if you're feeling low and not inspired. Abrazos y Bendiciones :)

[@sarahveloso8477]

Fran Meneses So true! I’ve been feeling the same way, honestly and it’s actually kind of a relief to hear another content creator/artist is feeling the same way. I’ve been removing pressure by just putting my mental health first. Journaling has been super helpful, getting more sleep, yoga (surprisingly- just started lol)... like your patron mentioned- this is still productive. I’ll watch whatever you put out, Fran, and if you need a break every now and then, we get it.

[@marielacristina762]

Gracias por compartir tus sentimientos, es una situación tan inusual que es lógico que no tengamos mecanismos para afrontarla pero darnos permisos es una buena manera de poder sobrellevar un poco mejor toda esta locura. Saludos desde el otro lado de este loco mundo desde Buenos Aires Argentina 😊

[@adityashet2042]

Hey Fran I have one book recommendation for you to be productive, that is "5 second rule" try to read it...

[@WitchofCrowSummit]

Fran, I just wanted to say that when I visit with my friends, I don't do it so that they will give me a respite from reality by entertaining me or being constantly positive. I visit so that I can see and hear from them. You are not a brand, but a person. I certainly don't expect you to somehow have the capability to detach from the pandemic unlike anyone else and provide me with entertainment. I can see a movie or TV show or read a book if I want fiction. I just like you, your work, and what you bring to the world. You are, indeed, a nice human! 😊 We all go through seasons of difficulty - some brought on by circumstances, some by growing and shifting interests and priorities. But it happens. It WILL eventually pass. Hang in there! ❤️

[@EmilyKariya]

Yes. I agree so much! I like you even more for being a nice human and being exactly how you are, struggling and keeping going amd being real and normal and nice.

[@ladazimina]

Beautiful comment🖤

[@Ludesto]

Yes

[@samisabird1651]

i'm crying with your comment, that's so sweet and smart

[@IvnaLinsIllustration]

this is so beautiful! 🥰 i'm so glad you could write this out and express the feeling so well 💛

[@nikaniko2420]

Fran, I just read your post on Instagram and I am so sorry...it happens and we all love you ❤❤ I'm sitting here crying, you are such a wonderful person and I feel blessed to even know you from screen...lo siento tanto

[@ilovechispop]

No estás sola Fran! Ánimo, tus nerds te queremos mucho :(❤❤❤

[@kasaparaba]

It’s so hard when your hobby is your job and you don’t feel like working (which is such a human thing to feel) because you feel like anytime you draw it should be productive to your business or should be shared with your followers. For me the best thing to do when I’m stump is just to allow myself to step away, because it’s just my body telling me she is exhausted. I hope you feel better and indulge yourself to create for the sake of it and not for ‘content creation’. :)

[@danf.2158]

I relate to your comment so much! It's so true. It feels indulgent to create knowing you won't be sharing it or using it for business.

[@mariana_plima]

Dear Fran, I thought your attitude of being super honest in this video was cool. One thing I am learning in this period is that we need to really feel what we are feeling, and not try to escape from the feelings, because they do not magically disappear. I think that the more we listen and sustain these feelings of anguish and sadness, the more we face them, it is easier to improve. I am in Brazil, and here it has been very difficult. We are currently without a health minister, in the midst of a health and political crisis. Sometimes I feel like you too, and sometimes better. Make good coffees, send love to people, and do what is possible, and only what is possible. Breath, my love. Just be you. It is not necessary to fill up with things to forget the sadness, I think it is actually worse. Sending a warm hug from Brazil.

[@danielaravenous]

I envy the calmness of your home. Your non-productive self is like my high-productive self. With luck i make in a year what you make in one month. Some of that is because I have 2 kids but also because anxiety and depression (from far before being a mother). When I see people feeling bad about the pandemic I think "welcome to my reality". It'll be ok Fran. Hugs.

[@erikaw2733]

I'm sorry but is it having children that brought you anxiety and depression or did you already have those feelings before the children? I just can't imagine bringing kids into this world if I'm battling anxiety and depression. :(

[@ewagornisiewicz-kusiak6814]

I'm thinking about you Fran, thank you for sharing your heart with us - here and on Instagram 💔

[@lunzs]

🌻

[@EmilyKariya]

I totally get it, I always thought it was a classic introvert thing, if I go to bed feeling like I made something or changed something or produced something, I had a good day. I'm learning to see value in different things. If you see doing different things as productive, you can feel productive doing different things, if you see what I mean. Think what you want to do, need to do, for your sanity and health, and then tell yourself how it is productive X I think remembering that you WILL eventually DO ALL THE THINGS when you/life is better/different it doesn't feel so shitty xxx

[@FranMeneses]

Emilyyyy! I read your comment today while recording our Podcast Newsletter and I wanted to thank you SO MUCH for bringing me so much peace. THANK YOU SO MUCH. It was this one btw "So you may not have produced a graphic novel, but you may have produced new ways of coping, a calmer nervous system, a few new perspectives, some new or closer relationships, and new personal understanding."

[@EmilyKariya]

Aww Fran so glad I could help you in some way ❤️ I honestly watch your videos with nothing but admiration. Not just because of your mad art skillzzzz but also because you are coping so bloody well with such a tough situation. You might not think you are coping well, but you reeeeeaaaally are. Every time you celebrate another week I'm like whoooooaaaah. We just haven't had lockdown or social isolation to the same extent where we are. One day you will honestly look back and be amazed at how well you came through it. You will definitely NOT look back and think 'jeez Fran, you could have published a graphic novel'. It's like hindsight and time gives us the chance to see ourselves how everyone else sees us finally. And we think you are doing amazeballs, especially on days when you feel you are coping the least xxxx

[@lizzy6555]

Wow! This is insightful! Thank you so much! I needed this! 🤗💖

[@lauraproctor1451]

Super insightful. The lack of schedule and the timelessness feeling of this pandemic has taught me to really value the time I spend on things like chatting with my friends, making healthy and delicious food for myself, reading, ordering from artists and musicians, helping folks by offering up spare food and favours. The little things that make me think "I'm taking care of myself" or "I'm helping others". They feel productive to me now, because they do have so much value.

[@HandmadebyLorelei]

Hi Fran. I know this video is quite old now, today is Feb 28 2022. 2 years after you posted this but I just want to say, I was drawn in by the title because I am going through this same type of unmotivation today!! I actually just feel really exhausted. Not really due to the pandemic like yours was. Mine is more of an anxiety from dealing with a sick cat a week ago and now that he is better (Thanks Goodness) I for some reason still can't get back into my work. I make and sell my jewelry designs online. We as artists all go through this... dry spells.... creative ruts, whatever you want to call it. It is usually not this long for me though so now I am getting a bit worried. just wanted to tell you that it does help me to know that you and other artists go through this too, and I appreciate your permission (very much) to let it run its course. It's going to be okay. I'm going to be okay. Being an artist is very hard work. The roller coaster is exhausting.

[@KatnippStudios]

Oh my gosh Fran, I have the same thing, don’t ever beat yourself up, I go through this on and off and so much is going on in the world, this is human nature, comparison to others is something I tend to do when mentally I’m in the worst state, I totally feel you it almost feels like a spiral thank you for sharing this, I will always stick with you no matter what your an amazing source of inspiration and I feel as though I just love you as the real beautiful kind human you are 💓💓💓💓💓

[@kittynekocat]

I really appreciate you being honest and vulnerable in this video

[@PeculiarJules64]

I don’t often comment on KZbin but I feel impelled to on this one. Girl, I feel you. Totally. When this all started, we were told to work from home, and being an introvert and I was totally down with that. I thought it was a wonderful chance to reset and live a slow life for a while - I am a journalist in country Australia, in one of the areas ravaged by bushfires in November last year. With drought, those bushfires and then COVID-19, I was burned out. But a couple of weeks after that we were stood down without pay and being told we might be back on deck June 29. A couple of days ago a rival newspaper company shut down most of its regional papers for good. Now i am waiting for the same thing to happen to our company in which case I will be out of a job entirely. I am beating myself up because I have all the time in the world now and I am not doing any of the things I should or could be doing - studying the two online courses I enrolled in, practising singing (I study classical voice and have exams coming up), creating the website for my choir I said I’d so six months ago, playing my harp, cleaning my house... the list goes on and on. Instead I find I fill my days scrolling social media and playing games on my iPad and computer. I have no motivation, I’m tired all of the time, and I’ve noticed my emotions are all over the place - not wildly so but enough to be noticeable. I live with anxiety, and it’s high right now, given my job situation. But there’s also a level of depression in this which I recognise, and I wouldn’t be surprised if that is what you are experiencing also, with the lack of motivation, questioning your self worth, tiredness ... all symptoms. Depression isn’t always black hole, staying in bed, suicidal thoughts. It can be functioning. It I might be something to look into. What I have learned when I was last going through serious black-hole depression was to use mindfulness and meditation as a tool to help me through. Anyway, thank you for being honest and giving voice to what a lot of us are going through - Australian tv is full of ads at the moment about taking care of our mental health - feeling what you are feeling at the moment is normal, so to speak. And another thank you because you have inspired me to reprise my blog and talk about these issues. Take care.

[@gsl_ze]

Hang in there mate

[@ms.marvelous7019]

Thank you for sharing and I hope you are able to heal and be well as soon as you can 💖💖💖

[@yonam0nn]

"Quién soy?" jajajajaja. Quizás para la laca hay que usar una que diga secado rápido. Me encantó el oversharing porque aunque no sea muy uplifting para el espíritu jaja es exactamente lo que muchos sentimos. Yo partí la cuarentena el 16 de marzo y Santiago Centro lleva como 2 meses en cuarentena total y estoy chata (y sola jaja). Hay días que son horribles más que nada por la incertidumbre porque no se ve esperanza de que termine pronto. Con el esfuerzo del mundo de alguien que trabaja en diseño y paga CAE me había comprado un pasaje para ir de vacaciones a Europa en abril y eso que era tan feliz ahora me agrega extra stress porque pedí el bono a la aerolínea y ahora estoy siempre pensando "podré viajar antes de fin de año?", "perderé la plata?", "qué pasa si no me alcanza la plata para pagar un nuevo pasaje porque subieron los precios?", etc. Penca y más porque no hay nada que uno pueda hacer. En cuanto a lo de la productividad yo me sentñia culpable por no tener ánimo de nada (me frustra especialmente no tener las ganas de hacer ejercicio) hasta que vi una imagen de Pictoline sobre un tweet que decía algo como tipo de que la productividad en la que nos estamos midiendo es en base a un mundo que ya no existe. Y me pareció muy cierto. Uno no puede rendir como antes porque no hay oficinas, no hay compañeros de trabajo, no hay salidas, no hay vida social, etc. A veces somos super exigentes con nosotros mismos pero no creo que haya un bien y un mal porque nadie aquí ha pasado por algo así antes. Me fui en volá perdón jajaja. Quédense en su casa :).

[@mariacovarrubias9103]

Si. Tienes mucha razón... y la gente que sigue saliendo y la gente* que sigue cobrando...ese mundo ya se les acabó... Ahora a cuidarse y hacer lo que uno pueda hacer y no frustrarse pq esto era evidente que pasaría. ( me refiero a evidente...que cambiaria)

[@magicalpatterns]

Fren Dear. I have been housebound for 5 years due to illness. I understand what you are going through. I now don't have issues with isolation, I learned how to feel good the when I am in my situation. Dear make art for fun now. Don't think about is ”work” just record it but don't think about that it is a task. I discovered painting because of isolation so is basically the opposite story. and now is what makes me feel that I'm worth it again. If you want more advice send me a message. I am an expert on being housebound. 🙈 Spiritual hugs. LinaT

[@karolsartoasis4815]

That is really powerful that you would help other even though you are not well yourself.

[@aprilchan1039]

I feel you too Fran, and it's definitely okay to have these moments. Thanks for opening up! 🧡🌈 ps. Love your art 🧡

[@debraphillips3521]

Hope you weathered the crazy weekend safely. Being good to yourself during this time IS being productive. As with all things, this too shall pass and being a healthy you is the best thing you can invest in for the future. Thanks for taking the time and having the courage to share with us.

[@Gabifpoletto]

Hi Fran. I've seen your Instagram post. I'm so sorry for you and your lost. 😭 Take your time and live this grief and mourning moment. I hope you can find happiness again, I know you will. There is a Psalm that says "Weeping may tarry for the night, but joy comes with the morning." Psalm 30:5 And I'm praying for you guys, that the morning light may shine upon you very soon, bringing comfort, warmth and happiness to your life. Sending love from Brazil. ❤

[@emiliebourdet516]

thank you for being, raw, honest and whatever you give us is enough.

[@tee.bowi3]

If you're perhaps looking for others who may be feeling similarly to you then I think you're doing something important by being THAT person for others. Some people might be being productive but not showing their vulnerability for whatever reason. I appreciate you showing yours. My self esteem is based on my productivity and work ethic also and I lost my job as a manager here in Australia when the hospitality industry closed down. I was lucky and got a few hours in a supermarket but have not been productive with all the free time I now have. I have been very down and anxious instead. It's a rough time and won't be for forever so the best we can do is be kind to ourselves 💕 I want ramen now 😅

[@karolsartoasis4815]

I to have a part time job in a supermarket when I lost my job at Christmas and its really busy there which is a contrast to the rest of the world. I have lost jobs a few times and it can really shake your world, please be kind to yourself and take steps ease yourself. Its a tough situation and it can happen to anyone. I have a few mindful activities to help with anxiety on my channel but really be kind to yourself, it is not easy what you are going threw. I really hope it works out for your highest good.

[@PancyrArtVideos]

It's important we look after ourselves first. Times are hard right now and art reflects life. I've been painting 'isolation' paintings because that's mainly what I can focus on. Going for runs also helps my stress. I had to take a couple days off from drawing because sometimes I just feel like I can't just know we support you and love you.

[@chelseascreatures]

I just wanted to say thank you. You're videos help calm my stress especially in times like these.

[@lucindasmith4130]

My word for this is FONDE, fear of not doing enough. I've noticed that most of us have been suffering with it, and the feeling does not correlate with how much we have, or have not, done.

[@persianwecallcajun]

My anxiety has been off the charts too. How I’ve (not always graciously) tried to “go with the flow”: I’ve dived deep into meditation and yoga in order to regulate my nervous system. I’m also focusing on self-love, accepting that I just can’t run my shop right now, and embracing it as a rest and reset period in order to come back on the other side refreshed and more in tune with my creativity. Sending comfort and sunshine to you ☀️

[@VeraGolosova]

Getting close to 2 months lockdown anniversary. I appreciate so much the raw and honest update from you. Because as of late I struggle with being productive. I am so tired of being a function, as I babysit a 3yo and it is nightmare. We both are tired af of each other. I am numb from all the activities and he is bored by his tired momma. The worst thing of this whole pandemic is uncertainty to me. If I knew I need to hold the castle for 3 months or 4 or half a year, but there would be a clear date, I could man up and do it. But this situation is like a goo, no end, just foggy corrosive uncertainty. The worst thing is that I developed envy towards people who don't have small kids and immediately after recognizing this envy I have started to grill myself with shame - what a person am I? May Brene Brown be with me. Yeah. Total shitshow. We can do it. We can do it!!!

[@magicksecrets]

I teared up in 13:45 because i felt i was there with you in your studio sharing this moment with each other with hopeful and understanding glance I've lost my beloved grandma who raised me few weeks ago and we still in lockdown and i can't visit her grave. I still can't believe it and i cry every day when reality hits me. Luckily i have friends with whom i can talk to and yours videos helps me a lot when i feel down. I like that you sharing your bad days that i feel less alone. Thank you, Fran!

[@karolsartoasis4815]

That is so sad, I am sure she sees and knows you are thinking of her. I am really sorry for you and your families loss.

[@artistzstink8755]

Hi Fran, I just wanted to say thank you so much for this video, my grandmother just passed away today and it's been a devastating and hectic at the same time, especially with covid and piled on top of that, so watching your videos really lets me calm down and even motivates me to keep on top of my school work. Your videos also inspire my own videos so much, and i just wanted to make sure that you know we appreciate you for all the hard work you put in to your art, online shop, and KZbin. hope you’re doing better, and if not, that’s okay too 💕.

[@karolsartoasis4815]

I am so sorry, I hope you and your family are doing ok during this difficult time. Well done for supporting other people during this time.

[@escorpioenmarte]

I LOVE HOW YOU JUST KEEP WORKING ON YOURSELF AND ARE SO RAW RATHER THAN JUST PRETEND EVERYTHING’S FINE WHILE THE WORLD IS ON FIRE. I love it, it just make me feel so in tune with you and less out of place. I know things will get better, love you.

[@ridhimajain7052]

thank you for saying what's on your mind...even I get really anxious and sad when I'm not productive and just put myself down constantly when I can't bring myself to create constantly

[@Cecigonzarc]

It's normal to feel that way when you are productive person. I have so many projects to work on and I dont even know how to start or be motivated. I just try to not be so hard on myself. So don't you worry Fran, things will get better.

[@JanineA]

Been REALLY struggling too these past few weeks. I felt relieved after knowing you(someone I look up to) sometimes also feel the same way, that it is not just me who is weak and useless huhu. Looking forward to better days ahead.

[@elizabethstone8567]

I’m also a creative living in Brooklyn struggling to be productive. Thank you for sharing your experience as our isolation drags on while simultaneously being lucky to have income and be healthy. Longtime fan of yours, and I watch to see how you are and not how I want you to be! ❤️🧡💛💚💖

[@onan.o2308]

plese dont regret sharing with us, i appreciate that you are honest. i relate to you so much but i don't know how to express my feelings so actually watching you talk and express is very comforting for me 💕

[@ohchoot]

Being productive can look different for many people, taking care of yourself is productive. Sending you light ✨

[@clem304]

You have so much more value than just being productive. Humans are more than just production machines. You are so valid and this entire pandemic is very difficult for everyone to deal with. You deserve kindness and patients.

[@Bournelux]

Can I just say THANK YOU for sharing what you are going through. While watching you my bf came in and was like 'thats what your going through', I feel a lot of what your talking about all. the. time. and it feels hella lonely to go through, so to know I am not alone in what I am feeling is a slight comfort

[@kellyrabbit2]

Wow, I’ve been struggling with this exact thing and I believe that someone with your platform speaking about something so vulnerable is huge! Thank you so much, you make more of a difference than you think Fran! 🧡

[@gemllama]

I've followed your comics on Instagram for a while, and I just happened upon your KZbin channel recently while I was looking for some drawing inspiration. I love your style and your personality, and I think you capture the feeling of not knowing what to do so well. Just seeing you flip through your books and stare into space resonated so much with me as someone who wants to create and be productive and can't quite latch on to anything. All I can say is keep doing what you do, keep your chin up, and know that you're definitely not alone in your unproductive times. You are a delight and I look forward to seeing more from you, whenever and however that may be!

[@darcinielson]

Of course, you are not the only one. I enjoyed your honest company today. It actually got me to get the paints out. Not for productivity but for healing.

[@ianvallejo7341]

I'm really glad I hopped on youtube today. Watching your videos has always been a calming and relaxing place. But the best part of your vlogs is just hearing you talk and being reminded things are okay. I felt that I've related a lot to what you say throughout the years. I've been following you since I was 14 and I'm 22 now. Even in college your videos help me feel grounded and find joy in small pockets throughout the day. When things get rough I like to think of all the good things that have happened, the things I've accomplished, and the things I can't wait to do in the future. One of my mentors told me anxiety, sadness, worry, fear are all temporary and they won't last forever just for now and that it is okay to feel that so long as you can recognize calm, happiness, fun etc. are to come next. I think the more we all can internalize this, the better equipped we are to handle darker moments. Gracias Fran por recordarnos a siguiendo adelante y tu energía positiva!

[@Blanka9]

Thanks for sharing a little bit of how you feel because it's very relatable, I'm feeling similar things these weeks, but I'm taking things day by day and congratulating me for every little thing, because it's hard. Also, you have made a great video this week, so feel proud about this too, because it's not an easy task! I enjoy waching you videos so thanks for doing it :) Hope you have a good weekend!

[@aimeecaine8821]

Thank you for being so open and honest! Its refreshing when all we are seeing is people constantly sharing new things they’ve made or hobbies they’ve acquired. I have been struggling a lot with finding self worth in a time when I have zero motivation to create. Your video helped me to release some of this pressure on myself, I hope you feel better and can release some pressure off yourself! ☺️ ps. Your cats are so cute!!💕😻

[@AveRivera]

Thank you so much Fran for this video, you explained the same anxious feelings I have so well; it's nice to know I'm not the only one. It's been hard to be productive in general because of the pandemic, even more so with the latest happenings in the US as a black woman who makes a living making happy art. Right now I can't make happy things, and I'm trying to convince myself that it's ok. This certainly helped

[@nanettemccall8618]

Please don’t feel bad or apologize for anything. Enjoy your coffee and don’t put any pressure on yourself. You are so real and that is what I love about watching/listening to you. Take care xoxo

[@DavidJoyce13]

Fran, I just got the Nice Humans email notification this morning, and I'm so excited to surprise my wife and daughter with some of your creations! I just want you to know that I understand your struggles, and that you have friends here in Vermont who are really proud of who you continue to be, even when it's hard right now! Keep it up! You're doing a wonderful job!

[@marianesbrushmarianesbrush3426]

Thank you to be so honest. You look so worry and it's so touching. We can't be productive all the time. We need to accept this "break". I think it's a kind of cycle like seasons. You're in a kind of winter but with spring your creativity will bloom again ! Keep positive ! I hope you feel better today.

[@beetheartist8715]

Thank you so much for sharing - I see myself in so much of this. I keep on putting pressure on myself that is insane. I always imagined if I had time off I could really get my art career going. And now that I have time, and I'm not doing that, not illustrating a book, creating a collection of paintings, getting better sales at my shop, I feel like I've wasted this rare oppurtunity. But it's crazy, there's a pandemic. So, thank you for this. It meant a lot. 🧡🧡🧡

[@akormanski]

Hey Fran! Thanks for sharing with us, it's really important to hear that other people are also struggling and to remind us that we are in this together (even if we're worlds apart). Also, it may not seem so, but taking care of yourself (taking a bath, cooking, eating, sleeping, watching tv, whatever) it's also being productive. We are not only our work (and I say this to myself too, as I'm unemployed because of the pandemic). We are allowed to be "weak" sometimes and we also deserve it in a time like this. Stay strong!

[@hyleore]

THANK YOU for being this raw and honest and vulnerable, don't feel like you have to apologize, sending love 💕

[@rebeccaelliott4261]

You’re the sweetest! You don’t have to always be productive. Everyone gets burnt out and needs a break sometimes. I have managed to make almost nothing lately, sometimes taking a shower and making food is all the productivity you need in a day. Everything will be ok! You got this ☺️

[@skyetreloar6318]

You should never apologise for being too honest, or for not beinga distraction - you are you and that's why we're all here. Thank you for putting yourself out there and for making yourself a priority during this time xx

[@BibianaSilveiraLuft]

I was useless for the first 2 months, and I was fine with that, till I wasn't, so I'm forcing myself to get back to the million projects on the line. And that's okay! We started self isolation 1 week after you guys, so thanks for helping me keep track :D Also, I'm editing this comment as I watch, because there is no memory in this body. *** As you talked about your self value, I realized I dont link my self value to anything, which is kind of worse... I have no framework, basically, so one day I might value myself based on one thing, next day another, and some days on nothing at all, and those are the pitts. Wow, that insight felt like being hit over the head with a building full of bricks. *** BTW, have you ever tried the Japanese folding method for t-shirts? It's super fast and the result is awesome. *** Radiohead ♡♡♡♡♡ Have you checked Stanley Donwood's work? He does all Radiohead album art since the second album. Amazing! ***

[@efficientcrybaby86]

Frannnnnnn, you’re right we do watch you to relax and unwind, but you don’t have to be positive and motivated all the time for this to happen. Sometimes when feeling down it’s comforting to see that somebody else is going through the same feelings and that you’re not alone. So thank you for being honest with us, but also don’t feel like you owe it to us. Produce whatever makes you happy and don’t force yourself to do anything that’s draining to your mental health. Whenever I’ve had a rough day lately I’ve allowed myself to sink into it and then the next day or maybe even a few days later I bounce out of bed with more energy and optimism than I had before. Everything is temporary 💙 take care

[@sadlemoncake]

Please don’t apologize for being honest and vulnerable! It is so admirable. You are still a source of relaxation and comfort, even when you are expressing your anxiety. I have not been my most productive during this time either, nor have many people I know. It’s easier said than done, but try not to feel guilty. We will all handle this incredibly extreme situation in different ways. ❤️

[@michelleelizabethhunter396]

Thank you for being so honest about what you are going through and your feelings. It helps make me feel that I am not the only one having so much trouble being productive right now too, and I have been trying hard to not beat my self up about it but it has been really difficult! Thank you again. Love all your videos!

[@jennabailey6823]

Fran, please never apologize for being honest and vulnerable. It's an incredibly brave thing for you to do and your emotions are %100 valid! Love you please be kind to yourself ❤️

[@bajaboolie]

I’m in the same boat mood-wise. At the beginning of shelter in place, I threw my back out, then my precious dog became gravely ill and died two weeks later (after we thought she was getting better). Such sadness amongst all this depressing news! I am starting to feel alive again...sometimes I think it’s just passage of time and a little self kindness. Thank you for sharing your experience, it helps us all feel connected.

[@francoisea.1713]

You are not the only one. I started to draw again after many years and hold on to my faith to keep my mental health. Long walks and talks with friends help too. Also remembering the past. People are strong. We will get true this.

[@SuzyYen82]

I am grateful for you Fran. I have been watching your vlogs to pass the time and to make myself happy. I was not ok last week so I totally feel you Fran. It’s ok for you not to be ok. You can always tell us if you are not ok. We are all here for you! We will get through this together. Hang in there ok? 💪🏼

[@noovernightguests]

Hey Fran. I am not worried about you, you have a great support system, are self aware and have taken steps to address your mental health. I know how hard it can feel to keep moving forward and I appreciate you posting about it. Because the steps don't have to be BIG they can be simple, short, easy and accomplish the same thing. Hope everybody is doing well! Love from VA!

[@goosegirl4557]

Lovely Fran, everything you said in this video I can say about myself right now. I haven't been productive in 2 months and it makes me feel awful. I've had to stop looking at other people as their somehow increased productivity during this time was making me feel much worse. I had about 2 week where I just cried many times a day (so weird) and now I'm feeling like I'm coming out the other side. I'm still not productive, but the heavy feeling has lifted. I wish I'd just given in to the fact that I wasn't working and spent my time doing nice things to help my anxiety, instead of trying and failing to work all the time. I hope things start to feel better for you too. It's a bumpy road but this funk we're stuck in WILL pass. So thankful to you for sharing this. I never expect you to entertain me, just to be you. Xx

[@angelableibtrey6239]

Honestly it’s so nice to have someone say the things out loud that I have been feeling. I keep going through waves of acceptance with productivity and waves of overwhelming sadness and me being a potato all week. I’ve not drawn as much as I’ve seen other people do but eh 🤷🏻‍♀️ I’m doing what I can. It was so nice to spend time with you. Just seeing how other people are doing good, bad, productive or not is just so comforting rn.

[@danielletdg8423]

Right there with you. I've been quite depressed and anxious lately, moreso than my normal state,to the point where I'm not working, can't get out of bed, and sleep for 10 hours on the average. I keep telling myself we'll get through this,and it's nice to know I'm not alone. I know I'm not, but it's still nice to hear it. Giant hugs Fran!

[@LESPICADICT]

Fran, estoy en la primera parte del vide y no sabes lo importante que es para mí que compartas esto, me haces sentir en compañía. Yo también estoy pasando por un momento difícil en medio de este confinamiento y a veces se siente como algo muy solitario, pero me recordaste que no estamos solos en esto y que es importante contarlo para poder ayudarnos. Gracias por ser tan abierta.

[@LetsGetBookedUp]

Thank you for sharing this. Your willingness to be vulnerable with us is such a gift. I really appreciate your truth. xxx

[@Brishti8]

Dear Fran, Thank you so much for sharing your thoughts with us. As one of the other commenters said, I also don't see you as a brand but as a person. I am a (now former!) University student and I also faced struggled with concentrating on schoolwork during that time. My anxiety comes in waves so some weeks (like now) I am ok and others I have difficulty getting out of bed in the morning. My town has started to open up so I've tried to take advantage of the warmer by taking walks or doing drive-by viaits to friends houses. I'm sending lots of good wishes & warm vibes 🤗🤗🤗

[@twominutesofdrawing4154]

Thank you for sharing your emotions. I like you the way you are, beeing honest. I wish you all the best.

[@moonlitfy]

This really gave me a sense of comfort!! I am working from home now which I am finding terribly difficult and some days are really bad and some are a bit better. Thank you for this!

[@caritafeliz7566]

Cada semana espero mucho tus vídeos, me gusta verlos una vez y después los pongo de fondo para estudiar o hacer mis tareas. La verdad me sentí un poco preocupado de que no subieras vídeo pero igual repetía los vídeos que ya tienes subidos una y otra vez. Te entiendo, en mi casa yo era el que hacía ruido, ponía música o hacía algo para no mantener la casa en silencio, pero ahora gracias a las clases en línea la tarea me come vivo y para la mitad del día me siento muy cansado y ya no tengo ganas de hacer lo que me gusta, lo cual me pone muy mal porque mis amigos están haciendo muchas cosas estos días, pero sé que debo aprender a no compararme con ellos. Creo que toda esta situación es rara porque nunca tenemos tiempo de estar con nosotros de verdad, sólo que ahora el tiempo se nos regaló y creo que debemos aprovecharlo, es muy difícil aceptar cosas de nosotros que no nos gustan, pero tal vez dándoles el tiempo las podemos cambiar. Puedo casi asegurar que cuando esto termine todos habremos cambiado mucho en muchos sentidos, tal vez yo descubro que me gusta mas mi pelo corto, que parece una tontería, pero nunca me había dado tiempo de pensar en eso. Quiero darte gracias por hacer lo que haces, porque puedo ver el amor que le pones a tu trabajo, y eso me ha ayudado mucho a mí. Hace un par de años encontré un vídeo tuyo sobre como ser freelance, la verdad no recuerdo bien, pero ahí descubrí que podía ganar dinero haciendo lo que me gusta, y creo que más gente lo descubre gracias a ti, de verdad no te preocupes por subir vídeos cada semana, podemos esperar. Espero que estés bien, y de verdad no te presiones.

[@emmalinalou3261]

I love the vibe of your channel every time I go on it I immediately feel a sense of warmth and joy and art and compassion 💕💝💐

[@lisalovejoy2751]

Fran, you are doing just fine. I have been really stressed too. I paint every day but it has been so hard. And I don’t have all the things you have been doing with a broken heart. You really inspire me. I work in a hospital and I see so many people suffering. I work in mental health as a peer specialist. If you ever need that kind of support, I’m here for you, baby! I think I need to check out your Patreon. You have so much value. I know you can’t see that but it’s true. Thank you so much.

[@jinmunsuen]

Fran, I felt just the same as you in the first month of isolation. At first I let myself off because I had just finished a stressful project. But after a while I noticed that I just did not want to get out of bed. I am feeling a lot better now, but it took a few weeks of understanding and rewiring my own thought process on self-value. What really helped for me was looking at the bigger picture. Art is wonderful, but it is an entertainment medium, the good it does is to keep people happy and preoccupied regardless if you are productive on the day or not, your videos, art and shop are still actively making people happy. That’s all that really matters. So what if don’t do 5 videos a week or work super well today? In the end, there is always tomorrow or next week to create art for people to see.

[@pngngo7583]

Hope you always be optimistic and find the new inspiration. Keep working with as much energy as possible. And don't bother to lose progress because if continue, you will be fatigued more. Waiting for your work after refreshing.

[@sylvieauguste280]

I understand your feelings, don’t be guilty about your anxiety. This time is so hard with the virus everywhere and it’s so difficult to feel good and be creative ! Much love from France

[@amywood6208]

Thank you for being honest about how you're coping iwth lockdown. I think most people are struggling with feeli ng productive let alone with staying mentally healthy. And seeing all these people online being productive and everything its so so good to hear that someone else is struggling and not doing all the incredible work they invisioned for lockdown! You're doing amazingly to just get up, stay healthy and keep going.

[@LauraGomez-bw3he]

Hola Fran! Eres increíble y no tienes porqué disculparte por ser honesta, tus vídeos siempre me hacen sentir mejor y esta no es la excepción, es reconfortante ver que no soy única que se siente cansada y ansiosa

[@lilabokinala1336]

No Fran, it's completely alright. In fact, it brings you closer to us. I'm really glad you shared how you feel ❤️. You are heard. Sending warm hugs.

[@hellokitty1818]

Fran, don't worry about us wanting to watch a "happy" video. We support you. We're here for you

[@gonnie8464]

Thank you for being so honest. I love it when you are real. And these are strange hard times. So be kind to yourself. Im always happy to see you. Like you just the way you are!

[@anjadippenaar3210]

Thank you for sharing your struggels with being unproductive. I found it so relatable and honest. There is vaule in just being... Looking forward to the next one!

[@annecanright4918]

I feel for you. I find that when I'm having a hard time I do busy work. One of the worst weeks of my life the area under the microwave was sparkling clean. I go through old sketches and art that I never had time to clean up. I organize paints, pencils, desk drawers, emails. All the organizing in your environment will help your brain stay calm and feel productive. Good luck!

[@2greenviolinz8]

You’ve voiced everything I’ve been feeling for longer than the pandemic and I appreciate it so much. Thank you for giving us permission to feel what we’re feeling because often times I at least don’t feel like I’m allowed to feel what I’m feeling. I’ve just been crying for no reason and I’m afraid to tell anyone.

[@keithedwinsmith9416]

Going out and about, and interacting with other people (both those you know and those you meet for the first, and maybe only, time) are how we, as human beings, gain energy, insight, and inspiration. So take all that away, and it isn’t surprising that we can feel drained and uninspired and generally listless, I think that, in the current circumstances, it is vital that we give ourselves (and others) a break and don’t pile up a mountain of expectations. The only real requirement from this dreadful situation we find ourselves in is that we survive it, physically, mentally, and with, perhaps, a greater appreciation of how wonderful other people are. Stay safe!

[@nienkevletter]

Thanks you for being honest and sharing Fran! You don't have to be positive all the time, because none of us are. And I've just had the most unproductive week (and felt guilty about it the entire week) too, when I saw your video. I miss feeling like my normal positive self too :( So it's a consolation that we're in this together 💙

[@promyown]

Fran, not only you went through that kind of a hard time being unproductive while seeing all the amazing stuff on Instagram ;) I'm a graphic designer working remotely (all the time, not just pandemic) and also had these days full of not being able to work etc. What was helping me was setting my goals low. Even like: answer e-mails, do an hour or two work (just forced myself to sit and try with a timer) and buy some groceries. That's all. And setting them this way I did not put too much pressure on myself - just managing the unproductive time ;) And sometimes it gave me so much freedom I did a lot more or just a little more like do a laundry. We are all in these together and it's gonna be ok! :)

[@sydneyrearick5396]

I am the same way, Fran - when I feel less productive than I should be, it is like instant depression. I haven't been able to go to work in over 2 months now, and I have made such huge strides in the way that I approach productivity and my self worth. My mantra is: Time doesn't matter, doing nothing is acceptable, and the world will not end. If I can do it, you can too!

[@karolsartoasis4815]

Hi Fran, It is a good thing for you to have time to relax as you are always so productive and hard working. Some times I wonder how do you do you do it. I try and to be like that but than I get tired. Since I am not going to my normal job I am working harder on my art and videos and really I love it so much. I wish I could make art and videos like you as a job. Please Fran dont be hard on yourself just show yourself compassion and love that you show us your audience. Be well.

[@petitecaotica]

Querida Fran. Para la arcilla polimerica, funciona maravillosamente barniz en spray para sellar dibujos en grafito, y seguido aplica barniz mate en base de agua. Cuando cometas un error, pon en un hisopo un tantito de acetona y pasas rápido por el error. Funcionara, palabra de polimerista 🧡

[@sacredstudiosart9081]

This was really helpful for me. I come back to watch it when I'm struggling and it helps me be gentle on myself. Thank you 🙏❤️

[@SuperMelaa]

I love you both guys, stay strong during this Tina and always. What a lovely couple of humans 😊💕

[@tesswhitley]

This is a completely unprecedented time, so your reactions and the ways that you're coping are so valid! I'm sure your other subscribers feel the same way, but you should never have to apologize for being honest. Love and appreciate everything you are, Fran!

[@CharliVince]

This was exactly what I needed to watch today. Such a wonderfully refreshing half hour of honesty and transparency 💛 I've been feeling weird waves of creativity (maybe once or twice a week) amidst an absolute OCEAN of motivation-less-ness. Thank you for being fab x

[@lizastevens8291]

Big hugs Fran! I think lots of us feel the same and it’s totally understandable to not be your most productive self during a global pandemic. What’s helping me is doing some short online courses. Just to give me little things to do but nothing too overwhelming. Someone said (I can’t remember who!) that you can’t exhale without inhaling! So maybe you could deliberately have a holiday and spend your time reading, watching inspirational films, relaxing! And take the pressure off yourself. Lots of love xxx

[@catherine8036]

Hi Fran, I love watching your videos you are so inspirational. Just watching you even just drink bubble tea, pet your cats or talking is already entertaining so no pressure on sharing productive content or posting videos at all. Thank you for being brave to share your feelings it takes alot of courage to do so. Everyone goes through different émotions during covid 19 and not everyone lives in NY either, the situation is different everywhere. Comparaison is the thief of joy! Enjoy your bubble tea and Ramen you desserve to treat yourself everyday.

[@FlorCoss]

Gracias Fran, tu video me hace sentir que no estoy sola en cómo me siento. Yo también extraño mi antigua yo. Me gusta mucho verte, escucharte y ver tu hermoso trabajo, es inspirador ver tu naturalidad.

[@imthetrace]

Fran! Thank you for being so open, I can totally relate to what you’re feeling. You are so blessed to have been doing what you love before the plandemic. Please don’t be too hard on yourself. You are inspirational, today and every day. I seek inspiration every day and hope to find my calling soon. Thanks again!

[@heydearstayhere]

i definitely feel you. when you said "seizing this time to do wonderful work" i feel like if i don't spend the day working on my writing, i imagine the day is lost. but that's when i look to do other things (reading, looking up new recipes, watching anime!) and also schedule certain things to have some sort of .... structure? and these things are usually more selfcare be it yoga or journaling. but alloting flexibility so that i don't feel like if i don't do things i was a Failure. it's tough though. our minds can only handle so much... what your patron said is definitely helpful bc if anything, this has given me time to understand how better to manage my emotions. i hope you're having a better day than other days and if it's not a better day, as my favorite song says: everything goes.

[@ms.marvelous7019]

Don’t feel bad about not being productive- I bet a lot of us are feeling the same way right now so thanks for sharing how you feel and giving permission to be unproductive! It was helpful actually 💖💖💖lots of love !!

[@carol-annegrenier5692]

Alot of us creatives are feeling the same. We value you no matter where your coming from. I am just going with the flow these days,

[@toddlisasmith9512]

I’m near Seattle, but rural, and we are faring okay. I hope you know that your true fans would not want you to make soothing, peaceful videos at the cost of your mental health. It’s comforting to me to hear others’ struggles. You seem to give yourself a pep talk while giving us one. I look forward to your videos, regardless of which kind of content.

[@rominavigo]

Hi Fran, I know that you feel that for not being that productive it's hard to see you as an inspiration, but I wanted to tell you that you have been inspiring us for so long now, and it's ok if you need to stop sometimes. I also wanted to thank you, since thanks to you I felt that I could make a small cómic, which was for a long time a goal I had. Just a few people are buying it and we're making it digital, but I feel that a great part of me getting to make what I love is thanks to you inspiring us everyday. Thank you for being you!