Author Jenny Block on Remaining Mindful During COVID-19
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During this time of uncertainty, artists and creators are working to bring joy and happiness into people’s lives. While it may seem that there is no end in sight for COVID-19 and government-ordered quarantine, those who are creating art want us to be conscious of how we are spending our time. Houston-based author Jenny Block insists that while we are in quarantine, we make more time for what makes us happy and distance ourselves from what doesn’t.
This past February, Block released Be That Unicorn, a book she describes as an “anti-self-help book.” She wrote the book within a course of a week and offers a realistic perspective on being honest and true to oneself.
“I always lead with kindness,” Block says. “But I always stand up for myself. I try to make the best of every situation. I walk away as best as I can from things that are not good for me. This is a book that I hope people will read and keep in their briefcase and on their nightstands.”
Block wrote Be That Unicorn with the purpose of reaching people of all ages, genders and backgrounds. She was inspired to write the book after multiple people told her that they feel “good and inspired” after talking to her.
After releasing the book, Block said that a friend of hers read it and felt inspired to leave her unhappy marriage. She also mentioned a friend of hers who read the book, applied for a job he wanted and ended up getting said job.
“I always say that you don’t need permission,” Block says. “But if you need someone to give you permission, I’m happy to be that person.”
During COVID-19, productivity has been a topic of discussion. Should people use this time to relax? Or should they remain as productive as possible?
“Not every hobby has to be a hustle,” Block says. “If you just like to paint, then that’s awesome. If you like to play Scrabble but you’re terrible at it, then that’s great. I want people to just be happy doing things.”
During this time, Block has been getting back into making crafts. She has been sewing stuffed animals…
