Creating Content While Balancing Work and Play

For those of us running agencies or working as full-time content creators its always a hustle. But while it may seem like a job that never sleeps, there's an undeniable beauty in the balance between work and play. In fact, blending content creation with everyday experiences can lead to benefits like travel, networking, and a richer, more fulfilling life.

One perfect example of this balance is my staycation in Jacksonville Beach, Florida at the Springhill Suites. Not only did I get to enjoy the sun, sand, and sights, but I also created content that resonates with both my audience and my brand. Let’s dive into why finding this balance is essential and how it can enhance both your personal and professional life.

Jacksonville Beach: An Example of Content Creator’s Dream Destination

The Beauty of Jacksonville Beach

Jacksonville Beach is not just a beautiful coastal destination; it's a hub of inspiration for content creators. The wide, expansive beach, the new Jacksonville Pier, and the vibrant community all provide a perfect backdrop for content creation.

According to recent tourism statistics, Jacksonville Beach attracts over 3.5 million visitors annually, making it a hotspot for creators looking to capture stunning visuals and engaging stories .

Whether you're shooting a video, capturing photos, or simply sharing your experiences on social media, Jacksonville Beach offers endless opportunities to create content that resonates with your audience. The blend of natural beauty and lively atmosphere makes it an ideal place to both work and relax. Not to mention its only about an hour away from the Historic town of St. Augustine and an even short drive to downtown Jacksonville which has a zoo, breweries, NFL team the Jaguars, and much more.

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The Benefits of Mixing Work with Travel

As a content creator and agency owner, traveling to destinations while working can significantly enhance your content. It get's you out of your normal element. But beyond the content itself, travel offers a range of benefits:

1. Networking Opportunities: Meeting new people and connecting with other creators or businesses can open doors to collaborations and partnerships that you might not find in your hometown.
2. Increased Creativity: New environments can spark creativity and lead to fresh ideas, making your content more engaging and innovative.
3. Personal Growth: Experiencing different cultures and lifestyles can broaden your perspective, making you a more well-rounded creator.

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Stats on Work-Life Balance in 2024

Finding the balance between work and play is more important than ever in 2024. According to a recent study by the American Psychological Association, 79% of workers report experiencing work-related stress, with 40% attributing this stress to a lack of work-life balance . For content creators and agency owners, this balance is crucial to maintaining both mental health and creativity.

Moreover, a survey by Buffer in 2024 found that 72% of remote workers struggle with unplugging after work, highlighting the importance of setting boundaries and making time for relaxation . By incorporating travel and leisure into your content creation routine, you can achieve a healthier work-life balance and avoid burnout. To be fair—most content creators know they will battle "unplugging" as our revenue is attached to time on the phone—but we can be purposeful with that time by writing out our goals before jumping in after hours. Otherwise, it can turn into a rabbit whole of scroll.

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How to Find Balance as a Content Creator

Prioritize Your Well-Being

To maintain a sustainable work-life balance, it’s essential to prioritize your well-being. This means setting clear boundaries between work and leisure, even when traveling for content creation. Make time for relaxation, exercise, and other activities that recharge your energy. Be honest and direct with those you work with—while you are an extension of your brand as a creator or owner you are choosing your clients in most cases. This year, I had to turn down deals or collabs if they didn't hit my hourly rate goals or was simply not a "right fit". That is because I've learned that if its "not a fit" regardless of funds it feels like twice as much work.

Integrate Work with Play

One of the best ways to balance work and life is by integrating the two. Use your travel experiences as content opportunities, and let your everyday life inspire your work. For example, during my stay at the Spring Hill Suites Jacksonville Beach, I not only enjoyed the amenities and local attractions but also created valuable content for my audience. This approach ensures that you’re constantly generating content while still enjoying life to the fullest. Make sure to have a clear request of what you want out of the project and that the brand will honor it. Examples are timelines of delivered work, what is included in the stay/collab, compensation, and ongoing credit which is one of the most valuable components to working with brands. I have hotels still sharing and tagging my work from years ago.

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Plan Ahead and Stay Organized

Planning is key to maintaining balance. Before you travel, create a content plan that outlines what you want to capture and share. This allows you to stay focused during your trip and ensures that you don’t miss any important moments. Tools like content calendars and project management apps can help you stay organized and on track. And always look over your gear 2-3 times before heading out. I can't stress enough how annoying it is if you leave a piece of gear behind. This is easy to do in a spreadsheet and if you want an example or template shoot me an email. I would be happy to share an example of what I use for larger shoots.

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The takeaway: The Sweet Spot Between Work and Life

Balancing content creation with everyday life is not just possible—it's essential for long-term success and well-being for creators. By blending work with travel and leisure, you can create more engaging content, expand your network, and maintain a healthier lifestyle. Jacksonville Beach, with its stunning scenery and vibrant atmosphere, serves as a perfect example of how you can achieve this balance. Often times I bring along products I shoot for Amazon Influencers program and Shopify Collabs. That way I get even more out of the time I am spending and feel inspired by new location.

So, whether you're planning your next staycation or a full-blown vacation, remember that creating content can be a part of the experience, not a distraction from it. Embrace the content creator lifestyle and enjoy the best of both worlds. Remember—have fun doing what you are doing—its still work but how you look at it can make it both work and play.

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