You got Time to Chat or Are you Closed?
Relationships Janessa Shaw Relationships Janessa Shaw

You got Time to Chat or Are you Closed?

this post, I reflect on my journey as a creative soul, navigating the ups and downs of artistic expression and the pressure to meet societal expectations. As someone who has always loved hands-on art, I explore the disconnection I’ve felt lately between my creative passions and the content I produce online. I dive into the history of art’s transformation, from craftsmanship to aesthetics, and how this shift influences our modern views of creativity. Ultimately, I question the fine line between authenticity and external perception, as I search for a way to reconnect with the joy of creating simply for the sake of expression.

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Unveiling Secrets or Are You a Part of The Journey?
Introduction, Lifestyle Janessa Shaw Introduction, Lifestyle Janessa Shaw

Unveiling Secrets or Are You a Part of The Journey?

In my 20th post, I reflect on the journey that brought The Unfinished Times to life, sharing the behind-the-scenes process of how I balance procrastination with my love for writing. From the early days of brainstorming to the final touches on my music covers, I reveal the creative flow that keeps me going each week. I also delve into the heart of why I write—how journaling and music have helped me process my emotions, and how I hope my blog creates a space where others can feel seen and heard. Looking ahead, I’m excited to expand this blog into the Co-Collective, a community where we can collaborate, grow, and express ourselves together.

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Do You Prefer College Parties or College Paradoxes?
Lifestyle Janessa Shaw Lifestyle Janessa Shaw

Do You Prefer College Parties or College Paradoxes?

"Are you going to that party tonight?" was a common question for me my first year of college, but it’s been years since I’ve heard it. Now, I’m the one hosting, welcoming everyone who’s finally made it to my party. College is a double-edged sword—I’ve learned that it’s not about the degree or the title you hold, but rather the paradox of hating school yet continuing because it’s expected. The pressure to secure a job often overshadows the joy of learning, making me wonder what it would be like to just enjoy expanding the mind without the looming weight of tuition and future careers.

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Do you Want Friend Groups or Is That a Thing of the Past?
Relationships Janessa Shaw Relationships Janessa Shaw

Do you Want Friend Groups or Is That a Thing of the Past?

The concept of friendship groups, inspired by her binge-watching of How I Met Your Mother. She dives into the challenges of forming meaningful connections in today's world, especially in cities like Sacramento where the lack of "third places" makes casual hangouts harder to come by. Through a mix of humor and nostalgia, Janessa explores the importance of putting effort into friendships, rejecting the myth that a smaller group is always better, and embracing the chaos and love of larger circles.

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Was it Destiny or Were We Just Bored?
Lifestyle Janessa Shaw Lifestyle Janessa Shaw

Was it Destiny or Were We Just Bored?

Reflects on the unexpected journey of adopting my first pet, a mischievous kitten named Benji. Despite growing up without a pet, I have love for animals led us to take the leap into pet ownership with my partner. Through chaotic moments and allergic reactions, Benji's playful troublemaking has brought joy and challenges into their lives. I have learned to embraces the ups and downs, finding fulfillment in checking off a childhood dream—though with a twist!

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Is This The End of The World or Are We Forming an Army?
Philosophy Philosophy

Is This The End of The World or Are We Forming an Army?

Imagine a world with no government, no rules, where survival depends solely on individual choices. This week, I dive into the concept of the State of Nature, exploring Hobbes' grim view of chaos and Rousseau’s more optimistic take on human goodness. Are we destined for violence and distrust, or can we find solidarity in times of crisis? Join me as we unpack these philosophies and reflect on how we might react when the structures around us crumble.

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Can You Put Art in a Box or Art Free?
Philosophy Janessa Shaw Philosophy Janessa Shaw

Can You Put Art in a Box or Art Free?

We spend so much time curating our online presence that it starts to feel like a performance—one where every post, every edit, every caption has to be just right. But who are we really doing it for? At some point, the pressure to fit into an aesthetic overshadows the joy of simply creating. Maybe it’s time to let go of the perfect feed and embrace the messy, unfiltered version of ourselves instead.

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