Paws & Reflect: How my puppy unleashes creativity

As a graphic designer, I spend a lot of time in front of a screen, refining details, playing with color palettes, and getting lost in the digital world. But I’ve learned that sometimes, the best way to fuel creativity is to step away from the screen and immerse yourself in the real world. It's been an adjustment, but getting a puppy was the perfect way to do just that.

Let me introduce you to our family's new addition. Neeva came into our lives roughly a month ago, and it’s been a whirlwind of wagging tails, potty-accidents, and endless cuddles. But beyond the joy and chaos, I quickly realized how much this tiny bundle of energy was changing the way I approach my work.

Living in the Moment

Dogs have this incredible ability to live entirely in the moment. They play hard, they nap hard, they’re fully present. Watching Neeva embrace life with such enthusiasm reminded me to do the same. It’s easy to get caught up in deadlines and projects, but taking a step back to enjoy the little things can make a world of difference.

Creativity Off-Screen

As designers, we often think that creativity is pulled from the screen, but I’ve found that some of my best ideas come when I’m far away from my computer. When I forget to take a break to play, Neeva makes sure to remind me. She obviously needs to take a minute outside every so often, but the fresh air is good for me too. Deadlines are important, but so is chasing crickets to find out if they're friend or foe.

A New Routine

Before Neeva, I was guilty of spending entire hours glued to my desk. Now, my day is punctuated by puppy playtime, walks, and the occasional “emergency” bath (puppies will be puppies). This new routine has helped me strike a better work-life balance, and I find that I’m more productive and creative when I do sit down to work.

Puppy Love

In honor of International Dog Day, I want to celebrate not just my own dog, but all the dogs out there who help us live in the moment and inspire our creativity. Remember to take a moment today to appreciate how much they bring into our lives.

Happy International Dog Day!