Tag: Growth – Mindset and Motivation

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Running On A Treadmill And Getting Nowhere?

You ever have one of those weeks where life is like a treadmill that’s been cranked up to 10, and someone tossed a balance ball into the mix for funsies?

Yeah, welcome to my current reality.

Every day starts with a check-in on how Klee is feeling. The good news: she’s nowhere near the state she was in when she was hospitalized. The not-so-good news: things are still not exactly back to “let’s dance around the house with breakfast tacos” normal. We’ve got two appointments this week, some bloodwork, and what feels like seventeen and a half meetings.

Klee At Her Treatments

Also on my plate: taking photos of the mural wall, a meeting about the Maker’s Space, and all the “normal people stuff” like groceries, post office runs, and pretending I know what day it is.

Oh—and we did our taxes.

Which took three days.

Three days of staring at numbers, receipts, spreadsheets, and questioning every decision I’ve ever made. As self-employed artists, this annual ritual also involved handing over a large chunk of our already fragile and whimpering bank account to the government. Nothing quite says romance like “Hey babe, want to cry together while we pay taxes instead of paying ourselves?”

Computer Problems Don’t Help Matters

Meanwhile, the mural deadline is galloping toward me like a caffeinated buffalo, my book launch has officially been pushed back (again), and other potential sources of income? Yeah—they’re all simmering gently on the backburner until we can find five spare minutes and the mental capacity to deal with them.

And somewhere in there, I’m supposed to be a calm, inspired artist?

Listen. I had a moment last week—I’m not gonna lie—where I considered quitting everything. Just peace out, mic drop, vanish into the forest with a sketchbook and a backpack. Between Klee’s health, my mom being in the hospital, family drama, and the cold slap of Tax Season, I was done. Toast. Overcooked microwave burrito done.

People say “make art about it!” And sure, I do. Eventually. But when I’m overwhelmed? I don’t go all Van Gogh about it—I shut down. Like, buffering-circle-over-my-soul kind of shutdown.

Then April 12th rolled around—mine and Klee’s 12th wedding anniversary. I wanted to write something beautiful about her. So I started looking through photos of our life together, all the adventures we’ve been on, the ridiculous and wonderful things we’ve done. And then that side of my brain—you know, the one that’s kind of an asshole—whispered, “Things will never be like this again.”

And that, my friends, is the kind of emotional sneak attack that doesn’t get talked about enough. That quiet, creeping grief of the negative asshole that lives in your head. That voice that tries to tell you the best is behind you and your future is fudged. It’s emotional BS, but it feels real when it hits. And it’s exhausting.

Circa 2009. Klee And I Traveling The Country In A 1992 Ford Explorer

The truth is, we don’t talk enough about how emotionally draining it is when someone you love is unwell or you are going through some crap. It’s like your brain is trying to organize your life while also juggling “WHAT IFs” and “ANXIETY” and “GUILT PANCAKES.”

And here’s the real kicker: even with everything Klee’s going through, she’s the one reminding me to take care of myself. She’s helped me figure out ways to rest, to slow down, to breathe—and let’s be honest, sometimes she has to force me to do it. Which is wild, because whatever emotional storm I’m feeling? It’s probably tenfold for her. She’s been the lighthouse in the middle of all this chaos, even while weathering the storm herself.

Klee is a true BADASS!

But here’s the part that matters most: I’m okay. Really. I know… everything I listed is really dramatic and sucks, but I’m not going anywhere. I might slow down a bit and be less active in the world for a while, but I’m good with that.

Because I’ve learned—sometimes the hard way—that if you don’t make time to process what you’re feeling, your brain will schedule it for you at the least convenient moment possible. (Usually while starting your day with a hot coffee or trying to fall asleep at night.)

So here’s a list of What I Actually Do When Life Feels Like Too Much:

1. Say the Quiet Part Out Loud

I talk to myself like I’m a friend having a breakdown over tea. Not judgmental. Just real. “Dude, this sucks. You’re allowed to feel how you feel.” Don’t bottle it up—let it out and give yourself the advice you would give someone else.

2. Micro-Wins Are Still Wins

Sometimes the big stuff feels impossible. So I focus on the tiniest thing I can do. Showered? Win. Answered an email without screaming? Champion. Took a walk and didn’t think about taxes the whole time? MVP.

3. I Remind Myself Who Is Boss

The negative voices in your head can be convincing because they are coming from your own head. But at the end of the day, they are just concepts and ideas you may have picked up along the way. I ask myself, “is this thought empowering or disempowering?” If it is disempowering I reframe it. For example. “Things will never be like this again between you and klee.” Of course things will never be like that again, that was one phase of our lives, we are constantly growing and evolving together and are much stronger now than we’ve ever been. So, “Things will never be like this again between you and klee because they are getting better and better every day.”

4. I Don’t Force Creativity—I Invite It Later

When I’m in the thick of it, I don’t pressure myself to be brilliant. I let art come to me after the storm, when the lesson or the light starts to peek through the clouds. That’s when the magic happens.

5. I Remind Myself This Is Temporary

Every moment of chaos feels like forever, but it’s not. It passes. Even when it’s hard, I whisper to myself, “This is not the end of your story. This is just a weird-ass chapter.”

6. I Laugh. Even If It’s Inappropriate

Humor is a rebellious act of hope. It’s flipping the bird at despair. So yeah, I laugh at the absurdity of it all—because what’s the alternative? Crying over expired milk? Instead, Klee and I enjoy stand up comedy and joke with each other all the time.

7. I Reach Out to Klee (Even When I Don’t Feel Like It)

Sometimes I want to close up into a ball and isolate myself. I want to avoid talking about my feelings because I don’t want to add anything to anyone’s plate. That is not going to work for anyone involved. So I talk to Klee and try to be very honest with everyone about where I am and how I feel. I’ll write a blog to get my feeling out and process things. I don’t bury it which goes against my upbringing as a man. I was taught that you never show weakness and that you always keep a strong front, and I did that for most of my life. I can honestly say, that is the dumbest advice I have ever heard. You either face your emotions or they eat you up from the inside out and eventually come up to the surface in one way or another.

So, this is how I’m dealing with things. I’m no expert, just figuring it out for myself as I go. So, if you’re in a season of holy crap, you’re not broken—you’re just human. A wildly creative, emotional, beautifully complicated human.

And if you need to sit in a blanket burrito and do nothing today? That’s allowed.

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Back in the Studio and Still Forgetting Why We Walked into a Room

Well, hello you awesome human you! I’ve got an update for you. The year started out feeling like we got shoved into a washing machine set to extra spin cycle—but I am beyond happy to report that Klee is BACK in the studio and feeling much better!

Now, we still have a doctor’s appointment next week where we’ll get the next set of instructions. It’ll either be awesome wisdom or looking at a chart while making vague humming sounds (you know what I mean). But the good news? So far, so good!

Us at the hospital for a bazillion times

The Delicate Balance (That Was Absolutely Annihilated by Life)

As you probably know, Klee and I balance a ton of creative stuff. We do art, murals, music, videos, podcasts, books, workshops, a Patreon membership, and occasionally remember to eat food. Our creative business runs like an elaborate juggling act, except the balls are on fire, someone keeps throwing in new ones, and gravity is unpredictable.

But then… BAM! A giant wrench fell out of the sky and CRUSHED the entire operation. And when I say “wrench,” I mean the kind that makes you question your entire existence while standing in the kitchen, staring blankly at a fridge that you know you opened for a reason but now have no clue why.

We’re just now picking up the pieces and putting things back together. Are we nailing it? Almost. Do we still walk into rooms and immediately forget why we’re there? Also yes. But I have faith that by next month, the balance will be restored, and I’ll stop opening my email inbox only to immediately forget why I did that in the first place.

Look at that beautiful creature at her bench!

So How Do We Balance So Much Creative Stuff?

Ohhh, I’m so glad you asked because I love talking about this! Balancing a creative life isn’t about having a perfectly organized schedule (hilarious, right?)—it’s about understanding your energy, priorities, and what actually keeps you moving forward. Here’s what helps us:

  1. Know What Absolutely Needs to Get Done First
    Not everything is equally urgent. Some things need to happen now (book deadlines, mural projects, feeding ourselves), while other things can take a backseat (reorganizing the entire studio because “it feels off”). Prioritize wisely.
  2. Make Creativity Part of Your Daily Life
    The trick isn’t finding time—it’s making creativity part of your routine, like brushing your teeth (but with more paint… wait, no, don’t brush your teeth with paint… the struggle is real). If you set aside even 20 minutes to do something (anything) creative daily, it keeps the momentum going.
  3. Respect Your Brain’s Bandwidth
    We all want to do ALL THE THINGS. But burnout is real. If your brain is fried, don’t force creativity—step away, walk around, eat a snack, or yell dramatically into the void (trust me, it helps). Your work will be better for it.
  4. Use the “Tiny Steps” Method
    If a big project feels overwhelming, break it into small, manageable steps. You don’t need to “write a book” today, but you can write 100 words. You don’t need to “paint a masterpiece,” but you can sketch an idea. Tiny steps add up faster than you think.
  5. Celebrate the Wins (Even the Small Ones!)
    If we only celebrate massive accomplishments, we’ll constantly feel behind. So celebrate finishing a draft, selling a piece, creating something new, or even just showing up for your creativity. Heck, celebrate remembering why you walked into a room! It’s a win!
She’s been on fire since returning to the studio

I think that’s about it… I could be forgetting something… 

Oh yeah! Have fun and don’t be all doomsday about what you didn’t get done. There is always tomorrow.

Thank You for Your Love and Support

To everyone who has sent love, well-wishes, and good vibes for Klee—we love you guys SO MUCH. Seriously. You’ve been incredible, and it means the world to us.

We’re getting back on track, slowly but surely, and we’re excited for all the creative chaos that’s coming next. Stay tuned for more art, more music, more randomness, and hopefully less walking into rooms confused.

Stay awesome, stay creative, and remember: if you forgot why you walked into a room, it was probably for snacks.

Love,
Rafi & Klee

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A Lesson in Self-Care And Caregiving

Hey, creative humans, we’re back! Kind of. As many of you know, we had to take an unexpected break from the YouTube world because Klee got pretty sick. It was a whirlwind of hospital visits, blood work, IVs—basically the whole nine yards. It got serious there for a while, and if you’ve ever been in a situation like that, you know how fast life can turn upside down.

We’re incredibly grateful to say that Klee is feeling a lot better, though the road to full recovery is still ahead. There are still medications, check-ups, and all kinds of things to keep track of, but we are back on our feet and moving forward.

This whole experience was an intense reminder of something I think a lot of us creatives struggle with: balancing life, our passions, and the unexpected challenges that get thrown our way. And for those of you out there who are caregivers while still managing an art career (or any career, really), I just want to say—you are a freaking badass.

The Reality of Being a Caregiver and an Artist

One thing that really hit me during this whole ordeal was how easy it is to neglect yourself when you’re focused on taking care of someone else. The first couple of days, I barely thought about my own needs—I was just running on adrenaline, making sure Klee had everything she needed. And let me tell you, that kind of neglect catches up to you fast.

Case in point: I had to throw away a pair of shoes because they got wet while I was rushing around the hospital, and something… unholy started growing in them. (Let’s not talk about the smell.) It was a small, gross reminder that I needed to start taking care of myself too.

So, for anyone else in this kind of situation—whether you’re taking care of a loved one, balancing a creative career, or just trying to keep your head above water—here are some things I learned the hard way.

1. Prioritize Self-Care (Seriously, Don’t Skip This)

It might sound cliché, but self-care is not optional when you’re in a high-stress situation. When you’re taking care of someone, it’s easy to put yourself on the back burner. But the truth is, if you’re not taking care of yourself, you’re not going to be much help to anyone else.

That means making sure you’re eating, getting some sleep (even if it’s just a few solid hours), and stepping away for a breather when you need it. Trust me, skipping self-care doesn’t make you a hero—it just makes everything harder in the long run.

2. Set Realistic Expectations

When this all started, I was convinced I could juggle everything—caregiving, running Rafi and Klee Studios, getting commissions done, answering emails, and basically being an unstoppable force of productivity. Spoiler alert: I was wrong.

The reality is, when life throws something big at you, you have to adjust. I had to accept that I wasn’t going to be creating a ton of new art that week. I wasn’t going to be knocking out 50 commissions. And that was okay.

If you’re in a situation where life is demanding more from you, cut yourself some slack. Set small, manageable goals, and know that it’s okay if things take longer than expected. The world won’t end if you need to slow down.

3. Simplify Your Art Practice

When my brain was completely fried from everything going on, I realized I had to simplify my approach to creativity. Normally, I juggle multiple projects at once, but that just wasn’t realistic. Instead, I focused on one thing at a time.

Instead of bouncing between 10 different projects, I picked one small creative task per day. Even if it was just sketching or organizing my studio, it gave me a sense of normalcy without overwhelming me.

If you’re in a similar spot, try breaking things down into tiny, manageable steps. Even if all you can do is one little thing each day, that’s still progress.

4. Schedule Around Downtime

Klee had a very specific schedule with medications, meals, and rest times. So, I structured my day around those moments. When she needed to rest, I used that time to check emails, sketch, or work on something small.

This was a game-changer because it meant I wasn’t trying to force work into an unpredictable schedule—I was working with the flow of the situation.

If you’re balancing caregiving with creative work, try carving out dedicated time that aligns with your responsibilities. Even short bursts of productivity can add up.

5. Accept Help (Even If You Hate Asking for It)

I’ll be honest—I am terrible at asking for help. But when people in our community reached out, offering food, support, or just checking in, it meant the world to us. And I realized something: asking for help isn’t a weakness.

If you’re in a tough situation, don’t hesitate to reach out. Whether it’s friends, family, or an online community, there are people who genuinely want to support you. Let them.

6. Watch Out for Resentment

Caregiving is hard. It takes a toll, not just physically, but emotionally too. When I was helping take care of my dad years ago, I struggled with feeling overwhelmed and frustrated.

This time around, I made sure to keep my emotions in check. I knew I didn’t want to bring negativity into the situation with Klee, so I focused on staying aware of my emotional state and communicating openly.

If you’re in a caregiving role, be mindful of your feelings. If you start feeling resentful, take a step back and find ways to relieve that pressure—whether it’s journaling, venting to a friend, or just taking a moment for yourself.

The Biggest Lesson? Be Easy on Yourself.

At the end of the day, one of the hardest but most important lessons I learned was to just be kind to myself.

I had to accept that I wasn’t going to be operating at 100% efficiency. I wasn’t going to keep up with everything the way I normally would. And that was okay.

So if you’re in a similar situation—whether you’re caring for someone, balancing life and art, or just going through a rough patch—give yourself some grace.

My new motto? “It is what it is. And good enough.”

Because sometimes, good enough is all you need.

A Huge Thank You

I want to take a moment to say thank you to everyone who sent well wishes, checked in on us, or offered support during this time. You guys are amazing, and we appreciate you more than words can say.

We’re slowly getting back into the swing of things, and I’m excited to start creating and sharing again. Klee isn’t back to 100% yet, but she’s feeling so much better—and that is the best news of all.

Also, quick announcement!  We just wrapped up our January calendar giveaway, and we’re kicking off a new giveaway for February—a one-on-one video call with Klee and me! If you want to enter, head over to our website for all the details.That’s all for now. Take care of yourselves, and remember—you don’t have to do it all. ❤️

CONGRATULATIONS TO ERICA!

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The Artist’s Eternal Battle Against “Helpful” Advice

There’s a universal truth about being an artist: at some point, you will find yourself sitting across from a random business “expert” who has absolutely no idea what to do with you.

This isn’t to say business programs are all bad—some programs out there are fantastic for small creative businesses. But every now and then, the system spits out someone whose entire entrepreneurial philosophy is deeply allergic to creativity.

Take, for instance, my brilliant artist friends—creative powerhouses who could probably design an entire alternate universe if left alone in a room with enough coffee and a glue gun. They dabble in a variety of art—puppet-building, drawing, painting, animation, candle-making, writing, and photography. Storytelling is at the heart of everything they do, whether through short stories, photographs, puppetry, or a collection of unique candle scents. Their mission is simple: create something fun and unique to share with the world while embracing a life of adventure, travel, and boundless creativity.

Early in my career, I was told I was wasting my time and needed to get a real job.

They recently got into a really good business program that would give them access to a business coach, which sounds great in theory. A chance to learn, expand, and take their art to the next level. Except… the coach was the human embodiment of a beige PowerPoint presentation on “synergy.”

My friends, fueled by artistic chaos and brilliance, met with this coach, eager to share their vision. The response?

“Puppets are dead.”

I repeat: puppets. are. dead.

Now, I don’t know about you, but last time I checked, puppets were very much alive, thriving, and probably plotting world domination (because have you met puppeteers? They have plans). The coach then proceeded to tell them that pretty much, everything they were doing was wrong—not “needing refinement,” not “requiring a strategic tweak,” just wrong.

Puppets are not dead.

I’m sure he didn’t mean to sound like a robot programmed to discourage anyone who doesn’t sell widgets at Walmart, but let’s be real—this is a tale as old as time.

Artists and the Box That Does Not Fit

The biggest battle for artists isn’t making art. It’s dealing with people who just don’t get it. Many people love art and artists. But some have no idea what actual art is. Those people like art only in safe, pre-approved formats:

  • Big blockbuster movies? Love it.
  • Art prints at Target? Aesthetic!
  • Pre-made sculptures made out of recycled toaster parts with an interactive light show? What is this sorcery?

Too many business “experts” view creative careers through the lens of traditional marketing strategies. They want to fit us into their pre-cut, shrink-wrapped boxes, and if we don’t fit? Well, obviously, it’s because we’re wrong.

It’s frustrating, it’s exhausting, and it’s deeply stupid. Because here’s the thing:

  • Art is not meant to fit in a box.
  • Art is not safe.
  • Art is the wild, untamed, chaotic force that dares to bring something new into the world.

That’s why artists struggle when they encounter people who insist on the “proven” way of doing things. Those “proven” methods only work for things that already exist. But we’re here to create what doesn’t exist yet.

If we followed the “rules,” we wouldn’t have surrealism, street art, or the entire concept of animation (which, fun fact, was also declared “a waste of time” once).

Persistence is the only thing that shuts people up.

The Real Problem: Judgment Disguised as Advice

Let’s be honest, the hardest part of being an artist isn’t the work—it’s the constant judgment. It’s the well-meaning “concern” from people who act like we’re throwing our lives away because we don’t have a LinkedIn profile filled with business achievements.

It’s the casual dismissals. The naysaying. The patronizing conversations where someone talks to you as if you’re a wayward toddler instead of a highly skilled creative professional.

And I get it. It stings. It’s frustrating. It makes you want to throw a puppet at someone’s head just to prove that, no, they are not dead.

But I want you to remember something very important: their opinions do not define your potential.

At the end of the day, no one has walked in your shoes. No one knows what you are capable of. No one can tell you what’s possible unless you let them.

If they don’t get it? That’s their loss. There are plenty of people who will.

Artists are the kinds of people who figure their own way of doing things.

Some Advice for When the World Doesn’t Get You

  1. Trust Your Vision – If your ideas excite you, they are worth pursuing. The greatest creative breakthroughs have always started as something that others dismissed as too weird, too different, or too impractical. Keep going.
  2. Consider the Source – If someone gives you advice, ask yourself: does this person have experience in what I do? Do they understand the creative world? If not, take their words with a grain of salt. Some people give advice because they want to help. Others do it because they can’t handle anything outside of their own limited perspective.
  3. Remember, Everything New is “Impossible” at First – The lightbulb was ridiculous before it worked. The internet was a joke before it changed the world. Animation was “silly” before it became a multi-billion dollar industry. Every great idea looks strange to the people who can’t see beyond what already exists.
  4. Surround Yourself with People Who Get It – There will always be voices telling you to stop, to do something safer, to follow the well-worn path. The key is to tune them out and listen instead to the people who understand your vision—the ones who push you forward instead of holding you back.
  5. Let Rejection Be Your Fuel – If someone tells you it can’t be done, take that as a personal challenge. The best revenge against doubters is to succeed in a way they never saw coming.
  6. Create Anyway – At the end of the day, art is about making something because it needs to exist. Whether the world is ready for it or not, whether the business experts approve or not, whether it fits in their box or not—create anyway. Because what you make might be the very thing that changes everything.

So go forth and keep making things that don’t fit in a box. The world needs you, even if some people are too narrow-minded to see it.

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Goodbye 2024 And Hello New Beginnings!

As 2024 finally limps off stage, I can’t help but wave it a bittersweet goodbye—emphasis on the “sweet” because, honestly, good riddance. Don’t let the calendar page hit you on the way out, 2024. But before we kick it to the curb and pop the champagne (or sparkling cider—no judgment here), let’s take a moment to reflect on the year that tried to be a good year.

Act 1: The Year Started Strong… Kinda

2024 came in hot. January was filled with big studio plans and creative energy. On the surface, things were looking good, but let’s rewind to October 2023 when “They who shall not be named” moved in. Things were… weird. And by January? Weird escalated to “living in a psychological thriller.” You can read the story here if you don’t know what I’m talking about.

While I was focusing on getting back into my creative groove, the home dynamic turned into a reality show nobody wanted to watch. Toxic vibes were brewing, and it became clear that this would be the year of dodging drama while clinging to our art studio for dear life.

Act 2: Art Saves the Day

February hit, and so did the passive-aggressiveness at home. Klee and I were drained to the point that filming and recording content felt impossible. But art doesn’t care about drama, and it kept happening. We buried ourselves in creative projects, which became our lifeline.

In March, we decided to tackle the chaos head-on by releasing a music video about interdimensional millipedes. If you missed it, let’s just say it’s exactly what you didn’t know you needed in your life. We also worked on a sculpture together, a rare and much-needed moment of peace amidst the growing tension.

Act 3: Solar Flares and Stomach Flares

April brought solar eclipses—and somehow the excuse for passive-aggressive behavior at home was “the solar flares made me do it.” (I’ll give you a moment to process that.) We taught a workshop and did an interview, smiling through the stress. Meanwhile, Klee’s health started showing signs of strain.

By May, Klee was experiencing stomach issues that left us worried. Balancing events, shows, and guests with the increasingly volatile situation at home was a recipe for burnout. Financially, things got tight, leading to an “oh crap” sale. Thankfully, our amazing community came through for us, reminding us why we love what we do.

Act 4: Enough is Enough

June and July were a blur of exhibitions, speaking engagements, and passive-aggressive nonsense. On Klee’s birthday, the tension hit its peak as they decided to move out—kind of. They left a mess behind and strung us along for another month. By July, I had reached my limit. They had moved out in the middle of the night and left a mess and a bunch of their stuff. I told them to get their stuff or it was going on the curb in a month. (Spoiler: it almost went on the curb.)

Meanwhile, Klee’s health continued to decline, and we knew we had to make some big changes to protect her well-being.

Act 5: Rebuilding, One Day at a Time

August to October was a mix of rebuilding and holding onto hope. We tackled murals, concerts, book fairs, and road trips, all while managing Klee’s symptoms. With the house finally free of toxicity, we started feeling glimmers of normalcy. But as we moved into fall, Klee’s health challenges returned.

October brought the release of Dear Artist, Don’t Give Up and Halloween festivities, which Klee insisted on participating in despite her struggles. She’s tough like that.

Act 6: Closing the Year with Gratitude

November and December were about pacing ourselves and focusing on what mattered most. We mailed out books, released calendars, and prepped for our holiday sale while keeping Klee’s health a priority. Then, on December 2, the year decided to throw one last curveball: Klee was in excruciating pain which eventually led to a week-long hospital stay. We cancelled to virtual show and have been navigating her pain levels since. Your support during this time has been precious and I can’t thank you enough.

I’ve got good news. As of today, December 31st, as we close out 2024, there’s a spark of hope. Klee is starting to feel better, eating again, and smiling—proof that even the toughest years can end on a good note. This morning is the first morning in a month where she did not start the day on pain meds. Hooray! She is still weak but in really good spirits! We are also confirmed for her appointment with the specialist on January 8th, which means it’s right around the corner. A healthy start to what I hope is a great year.

What We Learned in 2024

Life has a way of teaching us lessons in the moments we least expect, and sometimes, those lessons come wrapped in challenges that test our limits. This year, we learned one of the most important truths of all: never let toxic people have control over you and your emotions, no matter who they are.

It’s easy to fall into the trap of people-pleasing, especially when you’re someone like Klee or me—always striving to make others feel safe, comfortable, and cared for. But what happens when that kindness is met with disrespect? When boundaries are crossed, ignored, and broken time and again? For us, the result was emotional exhaustion, a fractured sense of peace, and a heavy toll on our mental health.

Klee, being the incredibly generous and compassionate soul that she is, bore the brunt of this. Her boundaries were disrespected, and instead of standing firm, we found ourselves compromising over and over, trying to “keep the peace.” But here’s the thing: real peace isn’t about avoiding confrontation. It’s about honoring your own well-being enough to stand up for it.

Stress Isn’t Worth Your Health

The emotional and financial stress of this year (“They who shall not be named” came with extra bills) became a storm we were constantly weathering. As much as we pride ourselves on living bright, positive, and authentic lives, we found ourselves burying emotions instead of confronting them. Bottled-up emotions don’t just stay hidden. They leak out in ways that hurt your body, your relationships, and your soul.

We saw it firsthand as stress took a toll on Klee’s health. Watching someone you love suffer is a wake-up call like no other. It forced us to take a hard look at how we were living and the compromises we were making. No job, no relationship, no obligation is worth sacrificing your health or your happiness. Period.

The Strength of Joy

Even in the midst of all this chaos, one thing became crystal clear: we have so much to be grateful for. We have each other, a life filled with creativity, and a community of incredible, supportive humans who remind us of the good in the world. These challenges won’t make us bitter. They’ll make us stronger. And that strength is a source of joy all its own.

Joy isn’t something you wait for; it’s something you choose. We found it in quiet studio moments, in music, in laughter, and even in the lessons we’ve learned through this tough year. Joy doesn’t erase the hard times, but it gives you the power to rise above them.

Our Wish for You

If there’s one thing we’ve learned that we want to pass on, it’s this: guard your peace fiercely. Protect your boundaries like they’re sacred, because they are. Speak your truth, even if it’s uncomfortable. And never—never—sacrifice your well-being to make someone else comfortable.

Stress isn’t worth your health, but joy is worth everything. No matter what you’re going through, find those sparks of joy. They’re what will carry you through, make you stronger, and remind you of how powerful you really are.

Here’s to learning, growing, and finding joy in every challenge. Here’s to standing tall, setting boundaries, and living with love and strength.

A Special New Year’s Message for You

As we step into 2025, I want to wish each and every one of you an absolutely amazing year ahead. May your days be filled with creativity, laughter, and the kind of magic that only comes from being unapologetically yourself.

I hope this year brings you good health, great adventures, and unexpected moments of joy that remind you how incredible life can be—even when it throws you curveballs. Here’s to a year of growth, resilience, and art that makes the world a little brighter.

Thank you for being part of our journey and for sharing yours with us. You inspire us every single day, and we’re so grateful to have you in our corner. Let’s make 2025 a year to remember, together.

Cheers to a beautiful new year,
Rafi & Klee

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Why You Should Never Give Up

Today, I want to candidly discuss something that many of us face on our creative journeys: discouragement. It’s a topic often overlooked, yet it’s a formidable adversary that can sneak up on us when we least expect it. Whether you’re just starting or you’ve been at this artistic endeavor for a while, I want you to know that you’re not alone in battling those moments of doubt and fear.

The misconception that once you’ve been in the creative field for a while, you’ll stride forward with unwavering confidence is far from the truth. In reality, everyone, including myself, has fought our inner demons and insecurities along the way.

I’ve played music for a long time, but even the thought of sharing my music with the world was utterly terrifying. I’ve always dreamt of writing books, but the idea of putting my words out there for scrutiny sent shivers down my spine. And don’t even get me started on sharing my artwork with the world – that felt like stepping into the abyss.

The common thread through all these creative endeavors was battling insecurity. It wasn’t about whether I’d achieve instant success or gain an army of followers. It was about pushing through the discomfort and persisting in my artistic journey.

Here’s the thing: As artists, our path is rarely a steady stream of certainty. Instead, it resembles more of a rollercoaster ride, with ups and downs, twists and turns. Your financial situation and your insecurities may mirror this pattern, and it’s something you’ll learn to navigate as you continue your journey.

Every time you challenge yourself with new projects, venture into unfamiliar territories, or dare to switch things up, you’ll likely encounter discouragement. The biggest foe we face is often the voice inside our heads – I call it the “stickman.” It’s the voice that tells us we’re not good enough, that nobody cares, that we should give up.

Especially in the beginning, when you’re sharing your work on social media and it feels like nobody is paying attention, that voice can be relentless. Friends and family might not seem as interested as you’d hoped, and it’s easy to wonder why they aren’t rallying behind your creative endeavors. But remember, people have their own lives, and it’s not a reflection of your worth or talent.

Early on, I discovered the importance of not fixating on my bank account or the number of likes and subscribers. For the first few years, it often felt like nobody cared about what I was creating. But that’s not why I started in the first place.

I embarked on this artistic journey because I had something to say and express. The act of putting my thoughts, my art, my music, or my videos out into the world was about fulfilling my creative drive, not about seeking validation.

Our world often measures success by numbers – followers, likes, shares, and dollars. But I’m here to tell you to cast aside that shallow metric. Instead, create for the sake of creation itself. Be unapologetically yourself, embrace your uniqueness, and share your work because you love it.

Yes, it’s tough when you pour your heart and soul into something, and the response doesn’t match your expectations. You may even encounter imposter syndrome and insecurity, but don’t let them deter you. Remember why you do what you do. For me, I started creating art because I had a voice to share. I started making videos to connect with other creatives worldwide, something I wished someone had done for me.

I don’t create my art, music, or videos for the few naysayers who might criticize or dislike my work. I create them for the hundreds who appreciate and find value in what I do, but mostly for myself. It’s crucial to persist without constantly seeking validation because, in the end, you’re your most important audience.

You might experience moments when you question why you’re doing what you do, especially when it feels like nobody cares. In those times, find strength in the knowledge that everything you do matters. You might not notice it, but your creativity ripples through the world, impacting people in ways you may never fully understand.

So, I leave you with this: Create what you want to create. Put it out there because you have something to say, not because you’re chasing fame or validation. Then, persist through the storms of doubt and discouragement. Keep going because you’re a badass; the world deserves to know your unique voice.

I recently doubted myself, but a heartfelt message from a supporter reminded me why I do what I do. Find your reason, embrace the gauntlet of creativity, and keep going. There may not be an easier way, but trust me; it’s worth it.

Thank you for reading, and remember that you’re awesome. Keep rocking your art!

Adios,

Rafi

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Forget The New Year’s Resolutions

January is here and it is the beginning of 2020. This is the time of year where fad diets and hard to keep promises become a way of eventually disappointing yourself. We start to think of New Year’s resolutions and how this year is going to be different. Instead of buying a thighmaster and adding more stress to your life by adding 10 impossible goals that you don’t really want, start off with small things you can do right now. These ten lifestyle changes may be small, but they have changed my life.

Rafi Perez Painting Explorer

Create A New Tradition Of Gratitude. Create a spot in your home where you can sit every morning and spend 5 minutes in appreciation for yourself and whatever you love in life. Make it your gratitude retreat nook. This morning ritual will cause your brain to be on the lookout for the beauty of nature, friendship, love, laughter and anything else in life that you enjoy. Many of us are not used to taking any amount of time during the day to feel good on purpose… Just five minutes a day will change your world.

Free Yourself Of Clutter. Papers, old mail, instruction manuals, and receipts can clutter all the catch-all spots around your house. Take just 10 minutes a day to work on straightening up your paperwork, and throw away things that you don’t need. You’ll be amazed at what you can accomplish and how clutter-free your mind will become. Our physical space is the perfect reflection of what is happening in our mind; if your space is cluttered in any way, your head will be cluttered as well. 

3 Little Birds Art By Rafi

At Least One I Love You A Week. Tell one person each week that you love them. It’s easy to forget to tell people that we care about them. When we forget to express love we can get preoccupied with other things and that will become our habit. Reignite the habit of love. 

Get A Plant. Not only will it bring you better air quality, but nurturing a plant will do things for you emotionally that are phenomenal. Oh yeah, make sure you talk to your plant often. They love that.

Smile. Make it a point to smile and enjoy this year by enjoying each day fully. Right now you are reading this. As you read this, what do your surroundings sound like? Look up, what do you see? How does the air feel on your skin? What is the taste in your mouth? Is there a subtle static in the air? Does it feel thick, or light and airy?

That’s called stopping, now smell the roses, by giving this moment a big smile. If you have a hard time smiling, just remember that we think you are awesome.

-Rafi

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Sometimes Life Happens And It Sucks

I have been told on occasion that I’m so lucky to be able to live the life I live. Someone sees a snapshot of my life as an artist on social media and thinks that is the whole picture. As if everything is easy and just sunshine and rainbows float around my life. The truth isn’t as glamorous.

I try to be as honest and authentic as I can be with any content that I share with the world, but even then you are only getting part of the picture. In a world saturated with smiley faces and picture-perfect snapshots of everyone else’s life, it is easy to think that you are alone in feeling unhappy.

We all have our moments. When you see a picture of me creating a work of art, you don’t see all the insecurity, doubt, and worries I may have at the moment. When you see a picture of me smiling, there is no way to know if I have lingering doubts in the background of my mind.

Back to back questions can fill my head like “Am I going to have enough money to pay the bills this month? Do my children hate me? Can I pull off this next art project even though I feel like an impostor? Am I doing enough to promote myself? Why do I feel so invisible? Why am I so fat? YouTube is probably slowing down because I’m old and ugly? Aaaaaarg!”

Sometimes Life Happens And It Sucks

You know… I woke up this morning feeling unmotivated and defeated. The book is eating up a huge portion of my life right now, and my days are spent sitting on the couch typing. I can easily get overwhelmed trying to balance writing a book and running my entire art and media business. Throw a small wrench into the mix like a water pipe bursting over your bed and all of a sudden it seems like the end of the world.

No matter how wonderful someone’s life may seem, we all have insecurities creep up, we all feel overwhelmed sometimes, and we all have things we are afraid of.

This morning, I feel like I’m a failure at my art business, YouTube, Patreon, and life. I hardly make any income from all the work I put into a lot of online platforms and I have to wonder if I’m wasting my time. Am I wasting my time writing this blog? I feel like I’m letting everyone who believes in me down and everything I create is crap.

From art to podcast, to videos, to life choices, to writing, to everything I do, it all feels like crap. I feel like everything I try to do is harder than it should be, and I feel isolated and alone.

Listen, I’m not sharing this with you because I think my life sucks or anything. I also don’t want you to think I’m complaining, because I’m not. I just want you to know that you are not alone, we ALL have days where our thoughts are less than satisfied with our lives. We all have those moments where we look in the mirror and don’t like what we see. No matter how wonderful you think someone’s life is, I guarantee that daily, they may have something they are struggling with.

I think the reason I keep going with everything is a stubborn determination to smile. I don’t quit. I know that at some point during the day, I’m going to discourage myself. I know that there is a huge possibility that I’m going to call myself names. I am probably going to worry about the future and make myself feel bad about the choices I’ve made.

I know that a part of me will do whatever it takes to keep me comfortable, small, and hopeless. That is a safe place to be because you don’t take risks from that place. You don’t put yourself and your ideas out there if you feel that you don’t matter. My brain will do whatever it can to protect me from rejection or failure… even go as far as saying some really hurtful stuff in my own head and heart.

Insecurities are complex and hard to describe. We all have them, and they are all different and multifaceted.

I just don’t buy into mine as often as I used to, and when I do… I remind myself that when you are about to make a breakthrough, that’s when the negative voices in your head get louder and more desperate. I also don’t give myself any labels that are damaging. You may be feeling depressed, but you are not depressed, it is a momentary feeling.

We all go through this, and we all deal with it in our own way. I channel my emotions into all my creations and find a way to feel empowered by the experience.

Some commiserate with each other, some find a way to smile despite all the setbacks and some rise above the crap. Some choose to believe in themselves and focus on their life, and others compare their lives to what they assume others are experiencing.

It is after the experience, where I have faced the worst of it that you may see a picture of me smiling on social media. Shit happens, life can feel like it sucks, and times can be tough, but you get to determine how you respond to all of it. If your day sucks, then so be it, but don’t isolate yourself by thinking you’re the only one.

I share this with you because I think you’ve got this. I’ve got this… we can be heroes of our own story. We can all be champions of our own life… Just gotta choose to be awesome and roll with the punches.

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Just Do That Thing, But Have Fun

There are six things that I look at whenever I find myself floundering in my career or in life. These are six things that I take a close look at when I think to myself “I should do that thing” and another side of me says “but…”

Most people think that I am full steam ahead, have endless amounts of energy and am able to somehow warp time and space. They say things like “Rafi is the hardest working artist I know.” If I’m not careful, this kind of vision of myself can become a badge of honor and I would become the hardest working artist out there, which honestly would be a total drag.

I don’t want to be the hardest working anything. In fact, I don’t want to work hard, I don’t want anything I do to be hard work in the traditional sense, I want it to be fun.

I think one of the reasons things seem like hard work for most people is because, for the most part, we are not being chased by lions anymore. Stress, anxiety, and a plethora of other emotions are tied up in this little thing we do when we go into fight or flight. It is a natural response to danger. The problem is that we go into this danger response when we feel a looming deadline, or there is a bill that is due at the end of the month.

For a lot of people out there, the simple act of speaking in front of a group is paralyzing. It can feel like a life or death situation. People will say things like “If I say the wrong things, I’ll be so embarrassed I’ll die.”

Imagine starting an art career, or any other harebrained idea that has been nagging at you. How much of that is put to a standstill because of this crazy response that is designed to keep you from becoming supper for a lion? Here are six things I tell myself to motivate myself to do that thing, but also remember to have fun.

  1. My Voice: I have one, and the only way I will find it is by doing this thing. I might be scared, but it’s not about making a good impression, it’s about speaking my truth. It’s just my opinion, everyone has one.
  2. The Fear: The purpose of FEAR is to stop you. Sometimes that’s a good thing, like when you are in immediate danger. But, if you are holding yourself back from doing something you know you love, the only way to get to the truth is to face that fear as many times as you have to. Make it an exciting game. Btw if the thing you want to do is put your head in a shark’s mouth then I would say actual life-risking fears require more prep and research… don’t just find a shark.
  3. Get Started: Starting is where most people don’t even get to. There are millions of talented and creative geniuses walking around on the planet, but they just don’t start. You don’t have to dive in, but at least take a baby step daily.
  4. Momentum: Once you start, keep going. The more you do it the more momentum you gain and eventually, you become an unstoppable force.
  5. Habits: Understand that everything you do and every reaction is creating a habit, so create habits on purpose.
  6. Give Yourself A Purpose: This could be anything. To make beautiful art that speaks to people, to voice my opinion, to write music that will change a generation, or just to paint pretty pictures… it doesn’t matter what other people think of your purpose, just that it matters to you.

I guess the most important take away for me is that life is a short occurrence, so you might as well do the things you want to do… and have fun.

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When Someone Tells You To Grow Up

Today you’ll join me in my brain… There is something on my mind and you’ll be following me through the twists and turns of my thought process when something pisses me off.

If you’ve been following along in our adventure, you know that we had the whole Etsy conundrum and decided to move on to greener pastures. Of course we ranted about it on YouTube and pointed out the reasons for the move and some of the shady stuff that Etsy was doing.

We received thousands of responses to the videos, and although 99.5% of people that watched and commented were constructive in sharing their experiences with and thoughts about the Etsy situation (some in agreement, some not), there were some comments that caused me to scratch my head and fume a bit.

One that seemed to reoccur a couple times was “Oh grow up! and quit complaining. Just roll in your shipping and raise your price.”

These particular comments caused me to stop and think about whether or not we were simply complaining about the situation. Well, only after I thought “BLEEP BLEEP BLEEP CENSOR BLEEP BLEEP!!!”

In the videos, we lay out the problem we have with the new Etsy free shipping push, point out a few of the ways this would be a problem for the small business owner, and then talk about a plan of action moving forward.

I’ll be honest: when I’m around someone who is chronically whining, complaining, bitching and moaning it’s as difficult for me as it is for anyone else. The energy of those dynamics is one of powerlessness.

And I don’t do powerlessness.

The simple fact is that people respond to emotions in an interesting way, based on how they view the world… based on the experiences they’ve had and how they view themselves. They will lump themselves up into a group and do the same with other people. For example, we were protesting Etsy’s new policy, and thus we were grouped into their perception of what a protester is. Someone who is whining and complaining about stuff and making a ruckus, that is the point of view of someone who would never protest. People divide themselves into groups because it’s safe to feel like you are part of a group… left, right, this movement, that movement, this group, that group, religious, non-religious. My problem with this is that if you have an “us”, then there is a “them”, and that’s where things get stupid and dangerous. Who knows where artists fit in this spectrum, but I’m sure there are several people who assume we are just irresponsible and childish… and some are, because they are human, not because they are artists.

I think it’s interesting that the term “grow up” is associated to, and often used as a verbal fly swatter against speaking up for yourself. I know that when I was a kid, if I didn’t agree with something, or was against doing something, an adult would get mad and say “Oh grow up.”

So, for some people it must mean that being a grown up means staying quiet when you disagree and just taking it. Because if you speak your mind about something, then you are being childish.

In our example, Etsy decides to use gentle coercion to get us to change our policies which would require us to be dishonest with our collectors. It also will cause us to be treading illegal waters. If we don’t do it, we will be gently penalized by having our products show up at the bottom of the pile.

So in order to be “grown up” I shut my mouth, change the policies of my business, and deceive my customers. I basically just take it up the keester. I guess at that point I would have to be ok with Etsy telling me how to run my business, lie to people, and just not stand up for what I believe in. That does sound very adult like. I would have to make all kinds of excuses to justify my actions, allow myself to continue feeling helpless while telling myself that I was in control and ultimately made the sacrifices one makes when they are a grown up.

I’ll be honest… That sounds so stupid. It’s ridiculous that people live that way… but they do. I lived that way for most of my life. I didn’t make waves, didn’t rock the boat, I was a good boy, so quiet and respectful, and so spineless. I also, would get mad and tell people to grow up when they just didn’t fall inline, because I was so twisted inside by the justifications and fear I had of causing a ruckus that I didn’t even know what to believe any more.

I’m not that way now. In my mind, the question of whether I’m a grown up or not is a crock of shite. We are all a bunch of kids pretending to be grown ups, making serious faces when we think we are supposed to be serious, and pretending to know what we are talking about. We don’t have any absolute answers to “life, the universe and everything”, we are all just figuring it out as we go.

So, for me… Speaking what I believe, yet being open and flexible is the responsible thing to do. Moving away from an e-commerce platform that is trying to tell me how to run my business, and ultimately has control over how well my business performs is probably the most grown up thing I can do… whatever that means.

I’ll leave you with this thought. Perhaps speaking up for the things I believe in is annoying to some people. It’s really all too easy to turn a blind eye to things that don’t sit well with us, and it can even seem more comfortable. When someone speaks up about an issue and we have to look at things we otherwise don’t want to, it can be a disruption of the status quo and that’s inevitably going to upset some percentage of people. And maybe it’s even true, as one comment suggested, “You just don’t understand how big business works.” Well, maybe so… but I do have a pretty good understanding of small business and the values that keep it going… and I sure as heck have a good understanding of my business, and how I choose to run it. If that’s childish and naive, then so be it.