The Journey Through COVID-19

When COVID first surfaced, we didn't know what to think (like most of the world). Then the news hit that non-essential businesses were going to have to close due to the pandemic.  We were very nervous about the future of Amy Rose Productions.

Chelsea and I had just thrown our launch party and officially opened the studio three weeks prior. We invested everything we had, and last year was spent freelancing, doing renovations on our space, and building up the foundation of the business. Like others, thoughts of panic set in, "Were we going to have to close the doors completely when we just opened them?"   

There was no plan in place because nothing like this has ever happened before. My initial reaction was, "Okay, what do we have control over and focus on that, not the things we can't control."   Naturally, the focus was on the business, but the feeling of being overwhelmed set in hard.

Thoughts of "We should be doing more," "We're not doing enough for the business and the community," were going through my mind. I started driving myself crazy.  That's when I knew it was time to stop and check myself.

Since staying safe meant remaining at home, this forced us to slow down. The first few weeks were tough; we're not very good at that.  Then it became a question of "What were the things I've put off personally for a long time because I was too busy?"  The answer was simple, my house and health.  It's always easier to naturally focus on others and work.

With a little bit of help, I repainted the interior of my house. Painting occupied the mind while exercising the body and became very therapeutic.  Cranking the music, head banging, dancing, and singing my head off, became great releases too!   Taking an extended break from social media was also necessary.  Disconnecting from the computer, reflecting on all of the positives, being with loved ones, and reconnecting with simple activities were essential.

Virtual exercising with Tina and the Cupcakes Community also became a thing (go check her out).  The constant struggle of nutrition and exercise is real, and she helped many of us through it all while figuring out the technical side along the way! It's all about progress, not perfection, and it's a journey, just like life.

As Chels and I wait for the green light and new guidelines to re-open, we're fortunate enough to say our business is still here!  We're looking forward to seeing you all on the other side.  More to follow as Chels shares her experience as well. 

 Missy XOXOXOXO