The past month, leading up to a near week-long vacation I’ve just returned from, was a frenetic period of new mini projects and requests related to a certain multi-billion dollar particle accelerator that just went online. The web site I designed for it had been up for many months in advance, but as its first beam date was impending (as was its public global exposure), the spin-off projects and enhancements really had everyone at work on their toes.

After all the supporting pieces turned out swimmingly, and other ongoing projects were left in good shape, I was able to get in some time off with my fiancé. An outdoorsy-type vacation with biking, running, good food, sparse tourist presence; ultra-conducive to serenity and relaxation. While we had boldly claimed in advance of the trip that no mechanical devices would be accompanying us (save for cell phones), my MacBook Pro still tagged along. Like it was even an option otherwise.

Now like most people, I have various lists in my head of “things I’d like to do” were free time ever to present itself (managed more tangibly now thanks to Things for the iPhone). More specifically, my most longed-for list is mostly comprised of various creative projects, or at the moment, things related to this site: possibly taking on x freelance gig, finishing this desktop design, that icon set, etc. Fun things. This list is nearly perpetually on the back burner not only because of lack of time, but equally due to lack of enthusiasm. It’s applicable specifically to design “outside of work”, for my own sake. “Personal design”, if you will. The issue presents itself from graphically (and technically) problem-solving from early morning to early evening, and then coming home and just wanting to do something mindless. Playstation 3? Run on the treadmill? After hours those options are just more appealing.

If I read something or see someone’s design that really gets me pumped up and inspired, that drive is channeled towards client work. The one consistent elixir for the After Hours Creative Blues, however, has been time off / a vacation. It’s like spiritual Paxil, in that upon returning to Chicago afterwards, the ol’ drive to design and create all hours of the day is just there. Even if it’s as simple as an ultra-quick personal iPhone wallpaper, it’s still something that can be leveraged upon at a later date.

For about a week.