Hey Caffeine Gremlins!
Today’s coffee review is a shameless plug for the communal coffee machine in my apartment building. Morning, day, and night, I’m placing the small coffee packets into the machine and then, a few moments later, enjoying a hot or iced, if I prefer, cup of coffee. I mix it with my trusty Chobani coffee cake cream, and ta da, one happy student.
Recently, I’ve been engaging a lot on social media platforms like Threads and Pinterest to connect with creators similar to me. I figure that building a community of like-minded individuals and those on similar paths to me might make me feel less isolated. Surprisingly, many are going back to school in their late 20s. On this journey, however, I’ve become overwhelmed by pictures and day-in-the-life vlogs advertising pristine and aesthetically pleasing workspaces. I see images of people doing schoolwork with color-coordinated pens, mugs of coffee, and academic planners. I admire the notebooks with impressive handwriting on full display and the background walls with beautiful and fun images.
There’s nothing wrong with this setup; in fact, I’m sometimes jealous. Today, I expressed to my husband that I wish my lifestyle were more aesthetically pleasing, and he agreed that it could be if I wanted. I considered this and envisioned how I would purchase rainbow gel pens and make homemade matcha drinks. I’m not sure, however, if I really want that lifestyle or if it’s just something capitalism is telling me I need. I resolve to find a way to be happy and inspired by my current workspace, regardless of its mundane nature.
The image I’ve included above is where I’m working today and most days, in the communal space of my apartment building. The room is large and open, there’s quality light, and comfortable chairs. Sometimes I’ll take a break and order from a food delivery app, enjoying my meal while watching episodes of Bojack Horseman. The things I surround myself with are few, my laptop, my notebook, a cup of coffee, and a bottle of water. The most important thing, however, is that I’m in a supportive space where I can complete my schoolwork and earn good grades. I reason that I don’t need a certain setup if I’m just focusing on school anyway. I worry the hours and money I’d spend trying to make a certain space might distract me from my short-term and long-term goals.
I understand that these aesthetically pleasing workspaces bring genuine joy to some people, and they take great pride in what they’ve created. To these people, I’m honestly really happy for you. I recognize and appreciate that staying motivated in school is a unique experience for each individual. But to the people who feel they must attain this appearance because everyone else is or society is telling you to, I encourage you to try to mute these voices and do what makes you happy. Life is so much more than how your desk appears. I’d personally hate to lose focus on what’s important because I got sidetracked by what looks good.
With love,
Sarah Jo
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