Starting From Zero Again, finding my way back
I stopped drawing in March 2025.
Life felt overwhelming, and for the first time, I wanted to step back, breathe, and just… exist without deadlines or commissions. I paused my small business and even deleted my Shopee shop because I genuinely didn’t know when or if I would ever restart it.
For months, I told myself maybe this chapter was closed. But last month, something shifted. I felt that little spark again… that quiet excitement when I pick up my iPad and start sketching someone’s smile or a couple’s favourite moment. So I decided to open a brand new Shopee shop, starting completely from zero.
And honestly? It wasn’t glamorous.
No old reviews, no history. Just me, an empty shop, and a lot of uncertainty..
The hardest part has been getting those first few sales. I’m still figuring things out, still learning how to put myself out there again. But somehow… I’m getting around 3 orders a month now. It’s small, but it means the world to me. It reminds me that every comeback starts quietly.
This time, I’m not rushing.
I’m creating at my own pace, reconnecting with why I started drawing in the first place to capture moments that make people feel something.
If you’re also restarting something you once loved… I hope you give yourself permission to begin again, even if it’s slow, even if it’s scary. 🤍
#findingyourself #mydiarydiary #adultingthings #Lemon8 #HealingTime
Restarting a creative venture after a long pause can be daunting, but it’s also deeply rewarding. From my experience, the key is allowing yourself the grace to move at your own pace without the pressure of instant success or external validation. When you open a new shop or start a new project, you’re essentially planting seeds and nurturing them with patience. One thing I found helpful was reconnecting with the original reason I started drawing—the joy of capturing emotions and moments that resonate with people. This perspective helped me focus less on sales numbers and more on the passion behind the work. Also, embracing small victories, like receiving a few orders each month, significantly boosts morale and motivation. Marketing can feel overwhelming when starting fresh, especially without previous reviews or a customer base. However, sharing your honest story—like this journey of starting from zero—can help build a genuine connection with your audience. Social media hashtags such as #findingyourself, #HealingTime, and #adultingthings create communities where you can find support and encouragement. Moreover, this slow and steady approach lays a strong foundation for sustainable growth. It’s okay to make mistakes and learn as you go; every effort is a step toward reclaiming your creative identity. To anyone restarting their passion project: give yourself permission to begin again, embrace the uncertainty, and remember that every comeback starts quietly but can grow into something meaningful and beautiful.
