After what seemed like an eternity of hospital visits, treatments, bed rest, and the constant loop of gaming, reading, watching movies and trying to find the energy to get out for some fresh air… I've finally stepped back into the world of alarm clocks, running errands, and coffee dates. Yes, you guessed it: I'm returning to work after my second and hopefully last surgery of the year. Before we dive into the nitty-gritty of what it's like heading back to the grind after the whirlwind of surgery and recovery, let me just say this—phew, it feels good to be getting back to life again!
The Reunion: Seeing Familiar Faces
Walking into the studio after what feels like ages brings a mix of emotions—excitement, nervousness, and relief all rolled into one. The flurry of hellos, welcome-back hugs, and catching up with everyone over this two year journey will be a a job in itself! I am just so grateful to have had (and still have) all the support over these past two years, and then some.
The Catching Up: From Zero to a Hundred Real Quick
As I settle back into my station working on new ideas, I'm hit with a wave of thoughts while I work on recalibrating my brain to sync back into routine. There will be plenty of emails, design work, consultations and works in progress to catch up on. It's like hitting the ground running at full speed without a warm-up. But I feel I have had a lot of practice at this with every surgery and treatment I have tackeled so far! And I am determined to tackle the workload head-on at a steady pace.
Hello, post-surgery creative productivity mode! I am proud of where I am at after powering through so much!
The Balancing Act: Health vs. Hustle
Between responding to emails and making bookings, attending personal follow up appointments, and powering through projects, I have to remind myself to hit the brakes occasionally. It's a delicate dance between work commitments and taking care of myself post-surgery. Water breaks, stretch sessions, and mindful breathing become my allies in navigating this new normal. Luckily, I know my clients don’t mind breaks and I have always made a point to stop and check in throughout every tattoo project. Outside of work, I will also be getting my gym routine back in order and slowly aim to work on educating myself with a nutritionist to further my commitment to make sure I reduce the risks of any future health concerns or issues.
The Home Stretch: A New Beginning
With each passing day, I feel my confidence grow, my energy levels slowly rise, and the remnants of surgery fade into the background. Going back to work after another surgery isn't just about picking up where I left off—it's about starting anew, embracing challenges, and celebrating small victories. And let me just say, this last surgery has been the biggest victory so far! I now feel like I can finally say “F*ck you, Cancer! I did it! I caught you sneaking your way into my life and I kicked you out. Now stay out!”
Moving forward, there will be days that I might be more quiet than you are used to in the studio. I have always had a habit of talking my client’s ears off. Don’t get me wrong, tattooing has been my form of social life for over 20 years and when I know you are having a good time I can relax and have a good time, too! But as I have had more time to create at home, I have realised how much I enjoy comfortable silences. A “meditation while creation takes place” is what happens when I get tattoos and when I make them. So I am always happy to give you a more quiet experience if you feel that’s better for you as well.
So there you have it. To my fellow warriors heading back to work after a hiatus, surgery-related or otherwise, remember this: you've got this. Take it one day at a time, lean on your support system, and never underestimate the power of your own resilience. Here's to fresh starts, renewed spirits, and the courage to face whatever comes our way.
Welcome back, warrior. The journey continues!
Remember, it's okay to take it slow while returning to work after surgery. Your health and well-being come first, always.
x Aja
{If you have any curiosities or questions about my journey, please feel free to email me or simply ask during your tattoo appointment. I am always happy to share my experiences in hopes I can’t help others as much as I can. We are all so different but communication is what makes us better, stronger.}
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