I truly related to you in this video. I had to step back and stop comparing myself to others. That is the biggest cause of my burnout. We have to remember to make our journey personal. It is more fun that way.
Thank you! And yes, comparison is what can cause us to feel FOMO and then unhappiness with what we have, which can lead us to want and buy more. Every person’s journey is unique and that’s what’s great about the hobby!
Thank you so much for sharing your thoughts and reflections on this important topic. I resonated with a lot of your points, and I agree that social media can be wonderful and stressful when it comes to engaging in hobbies. I’m newer into the fountain pen hobby, but I went through a similar burnout with other hobbies in the past, and it really got me down. I deactivated my IG account last June, and while I sometimes feel fomo, I was in a place where I couldn’t have a healthy relationship with it, so I ended it for the time being. I like how UA-cam sparks a lot of great conversation and authenticity. I’m also glad you were able to reconnect with your joy to the hobby - that felt like a very nice conclusion to your video to me! 💗
Good for you for recognizing what was unhealthy for you and for removing it from your life. And you're right about UA-cam - I've had some great conversations with people and it's amazing what we can share in this community. Thank you!
Great video. I recently cut my collection down. It was not enough to like a pen I had, I needed to be writing with it. My collection now is smaller but i am using all the pens in it. I am far happier with my collection now.
@@KarynaLovesToPlan I think excitment causes us to collect at a high rate early on. It can happen in any hobby, after all we are human. Once more thank you for a great video.
What a breath of fresh air, thank you for your honesty and philosophical thoughts about the topic! I hope the guilt subsides because your videos inspire so many folks, including me. I know it’s also complicated so I appreciate this video that looks at multiple sides, thank you!
I always look forward to your videos! Thank you for putting yourself out there! I truly understand the burn out, but for me instead of selling everything, I put it away for a few days, like right now I have been burned out with daily journaling. I haven’t journaled in over a month, which I have beat myself up over since both of my daughters are seniors. One a senior in college and the other is a senior in high school. These are such precious times, but I think for me, it has not been my pens or my journal, but that it’s just an overwhelming time. It really has nothing to do with my pens and journal, but the reality yesterday my life is drastically changing. So thank you for your video! Thank you for helping me to address my burnout!
Thank you, Steph! Taking a break is so needed when things can get overwhelming. Not just with our hobbies, but with life in general. We need that time to recharge and come back with the energy we had when we started. Take care - it sounds like you've got a lot on your plate. Journaling will always be there for you when you're ready!
Awww seniors yayyy my 37 year old daughter just got on a flight to South America and I’m up at 5am watching pen videos lol I can imagine your life being overwhelming right now. You gotta appreciate things as they occur
I would like to thank you from the bottom of my heart for this video. You raise an extremely important issue that few people want to talk about. Few people have the courage to admit to burning out their passion. You are absolutely right that social media is driving this whole machine. You also mention the desire to make a name for yourself in the rather hermetic community of fountain pen enthusiasts. Admittedly, I don't have social media myself, but I sit on fountain pen forums and often feel mismatched, lost and inferior because I don't buy pens for millions of dollars.
Thank you so much for sharing! Please don't ever feel that you do not have a place in the community - if you have a fountain pen, and you love it, and want to share that with others, then you are part of this community! Fountain pens shouldn't be a status symbol i.e. owning a Montblanc is the epitome or goal. If you love your collection and it works for you, then that is what matters.
Thanks for sharing this important conversation, Karyna. Even though I'm new getting back into fountain pens, I do find myself overwhelmed at times and I need to step back. I don't want to step away from the community, though, so it's really helpful for me to draw a distinction between the collecting and the community. Thanks for your calm voice of reason! 😊
Thank you! Yes, there is a distinction between collection and the community. I've found the fountain pen community so helpful, both during times of excitement and sadness.
Total respect for your honesty!!! I appreciate you telling it like it is. I ventured into the hobby at the same time you did. I've done a hard stop on purchases. I'm enjoying what I have. Note for pen hobbyists: Stay away from the UA-cam online retailer podcasts. I'm looking at you Goulet Pens! They are slick, well-produced full movie length advertisements 😅
The pen retailers are definitely tempting - it is part of their jobs, and it is up to us to consume what we want to. And learning to appreciate the new releases for what they are without wanting to buy every single one!
Karina, I enjoyed your discussion of burnout. For me, using, writing with my pens is much more important than owning a pen. I remind my self I am not a collector but an enthusiast. In the last year I purchased a beautiful hand made pen box made by Ray Jones. It was not a need but brings me joy and allows me to display my pens. When I ordered a box, I chose a box that would hold 20 pens. That is my limit. I have been using fountain pens for more than twenty years. I currently own 15 pens. For me to buy a pen it has to be very special to me. When I hit twenty pens, I will have to sell or gift a pen before I buy another. Thank you for your thoughtful exploration of our hobby.
I did a video maybe a year ago on whether one was a user and a collector, and I would rather be more on the user side. It sounds like you know exactly what you want from your pens, and you're all the better for it. And it's absolutely okay to splurge on something that will bring us joy, and if it continues to bring us joy, then it's fulfilling its purpose! Thank you for sharing!
GREAT video. It has really made me think. Burnout may mean different things to different people so I can relate in varying ways. Thanks so much Karyna.
I think the culture around using social media and consumerism in general can send anyone down a rabbit hole of seeking a rush from fixating on a category of things and then trying to find the next best thing to keep the happy feelings going. And it just so happens, fountain pens are a category of product that are highly collectible. Plus-despite the community growing pretty quickly-it’s still small enough to feel truly niche, which adds to its allure. All this is to say, I think the world is sort of set up for us to lean into our desire to own things we like and almost obsessively acquire them, whether it’s fountain pens or something else. As a serial hobbyist I’ve seen similar things happen to people (including myself) who collect everything from records to sneakers, handbags, and Pokémon cards. Personally it’s not about comparison for me and I’ve not reached burnout per se, but I do know my personality is susceptible to this culture of consumerism and I try to check myself by working through what I know to be the irrational impulses that make me feel like I NEED to have things just because I like them, or because I somehow associate my collection of objects to be an expression of my personality. I have to actively remind myself that I am who I am and I like what I like regardless of whether I have physical evidence to hold in my hand. I don’t have anything to prove to myself, and I’m not a different person or missing a part of myself if the stuff I admire doesn’t live rent free in my space.
Thank you for your thoughtful reply, Lori! You've hit the nail on the head when it comes to social media and consumerism, and this culture of "needing" the newest thing right now! And I'm also learning that just because something is beautiful and I admire it, it doesn't mean I need to have it.
Been feeling some type of way since February. I bought 4 pens in one month, and went thru a ton of emotions, especially when two of them didn’t perform as expected out of the box. Couldn’t place a word to describe the feeling, but it put me off of buying pens for a little bit. I mean, it’s also enough to hold me over because it’s been the equivalent of one pen a month. I haven’t had as much enthusiasm over new releases either. It helped me catch what was real joy over a new pen release versus what was actually fomo-induced joy. I kinda want to make a video about this too. Don’t know if I will, but at the very least, thank you and liane and pen boy Roy for putting a term to this and making me realize what it is.
"Real joy" - yes! Just like the Marie Kondo method - what we keep should bring us joy, and if it doesn't, what is the point? I now take that principle into every purchase. Will this bring me joy? And is it long lasting joy or FOMO-induced-slash-hunting-for-the-next-new-thing? Thank you!
Always tough when pen doesn’t meet expectations much less over delivering. Best of luck finding balance and enjoying your hobby solely for you without the pressures to shop. Hopefully, you do share that video when you're ready.
I dont know what I'm feeling right now right now for me I'm feeling disappointment about my pens about my community about my status with youtube ... I've been putting videos on youtube for going on 20 years and I'm still not a full partner its me I know it is I might not be everyone cup of tea and thats fine but I think I have something to contribute to the world weather people want to watch me is up to them. talk about feelings of missing out ... I think you are a wonderful creator your videos always bring a sense of stable joy to my feed and I appreciate all you do for our little community its growing so fast.
You need to do what works for you, not for status or views or numbers. We all contribute to this community in different ways. Thank you for what you do!
I am with ya on all these things. Hugs. 🥰 I got into it 14 years ago & left it for over 13 years to have a young kid & focus on family & work. It was a good break. But now, I only buy for my art work needs & no more because saving money & having time to do your life & being happy & healthy is very important. I hope you find a life balance soon. 💙💜❤️🥰 Thank you.
Thank you, Lisa! Finding a balance is important, for sure. I think I am getting closer to that, and sitting with what I have and enjoying my current collection will help me find that balance.
Great video Karyna and I can totally relate. I got sucked in to the ‘new and shiny’ items, in several areas not just fountain pens - social media is one great big advertisement really. The more I watch, the more I feel like the market is becoming flooded with products; makeup, skincare, pens, inks, it just seems to be getting worse. What is it that we’re really all searching for when we buy these items? Instant gratification is great but not when it’s the thief of pure joy and appreciation. Much love xx
Lovely beautiful video, Karyna! Thank you so much for sharing your thoughts. This is definitely a topic that is not talked about much in the fountain pen community since there's just so much influx of new pens, new inks, and the constant need to stay relevant in this economy as it is such a niche hobby. I think everyone will come to a point of experiencing some form of fountain pen burnout during their journey and you pointed out a lot of key factors that play huge roles in this. I think I would love to join in on the conversation and express my own feelings since I recently dove into a deep moment of depressed thoughts about my life that are affected by my pen hobby choices, but I was able to process and move through it. It really hits hard when it hits at a very vulnerable moment and then it can linger on steadily if you don't address it. I love how you gracefully reminded people to be kind in the comments section because we are not here to be mean to each other, we're here to share and learn from each other, and a screen should not make us forget that we can be kind to each other with our words. In this community, we are all enjoying this hobby at our own different paces - and that's perfectly fine! The only thing we should compare if you even need to compare - and only need to have in common are our passion and love for the hobby.
Thank you, Lao! That's so great that you were able to move and process through your feelings and burnout. It's not just about the hobby but what we're going through in our lives that affect how we feel about our hobbies. Always enjoy your videos, too!
I totally can understand what you’re going through. There’s always a new pen, always a latest edition and limited edition like you said. And I was getting caught up in that rat race. It’s not good for your mental health either. So I have put a halt to this want want want. Because I can’t afford it and it was causing me frustration. Because I couldn’t have it. I’m glad you voiced this because I think a lot of people were feeling like this. I have not been into this hobby very long and it was already consuming me. Thanks for sharing.
I'm so glad this was helpful. The fountain hobby should be a joyful thing, not one that causes you stress or frustration or is a danger to your mental health. Take care!
I was lucky enough never to have felt pressure to purchase more than I needed when it came to fountain pens. I'm still here with the same handful of pens since my first video way back when. I do think avoiding social media has helped. I spend a lot of time enjoying writing and stationery offline, building up experiences that I will share sometime in the future. I do enjoy your videos and admire your commitment to creating and sharing! Great video and really interesting topic. Thanks Karyna and all the best for your recovery. Sending positive vibes from Vancouver.
I am completely in awe of your collection and your practice as well. Your collection is one I strive for - once I get over the sparkle of all the limited and new. And I think I'm on my way. I've sold 15 pens so far this year, and I'm already 3 pens less than what I started the year with. Thank you so much for your input!
I appreciate you in this community. I’ve learned a lot from you. I consider myself a fountain pen novice but thanks to you and others you have helped me deepen my love for these pens. I feel excited and special using my pens everyday. I feel fancy! It’s the little luxuries in life for me. It’s definitely not about high end pens. Don’t let pen snobs get to you. My Pelikan Twist puts the biggest smile on my face and that’s what matters most 😊
Felicia, thank you so much for your comment. I love hearing about the excitement you have when using your pens. It completely is about enjoying the little things, isn't it!
Thank you for your vulnerability Karyna. I have not gone through an extended period of burnout yet, but I have definitely had, “What the heck are you doing?” moments. I try hard not to jump from one “cool” pen to another following trends if you will. That said, there are so many pens out there, new or vintage, that I could obsessively buy pens with no need for a trend. Limiting my time scrolling social media REALLY helps me. Letter writing is my main way to use my pens (other than work notes) and I try to focus there. Crossword puzzles have also been a blast lately, online so far, but i want to get some book so I can use my pens. Lastly, it must be so hard as a content creator. I know that my mood can live or die (at least for a few minutes) on the likes I get on a post, that must be exponentially more difficult for people who have channels to maintain. Keep well and let’s have FUN with our pens most of all.
Thank you Ben! Social media has been both good and bad. It's been great for finding a community and also discovering new pens. But as a content creator, it can also expose me to some not so kind comments, which, over the years, I think I've become better at handling but at the end of the day, we're human. I use my pens for journaling, drawing and the inks for painting, too!
@@KarynaLovesToPlan I'm so sorry that some people are ugly with their comments. My Mama used to tell me, "Consider the source." Your value has nothing to do with their opinions about you, or even what you do online. It is inherent within you. 🙂
Watching a lot of pen videos, the dynamics of addiction seem evident for some. And I think some of the videos of some content creators stoke or encourage addictive patterns--unwittingly, I think. It is a wonderful hobby, but needing to have more and more pens and inks and notebooks when one already has so much, more than one can actually use, and sometimes more than one can afford, involves some unhealthy dynamics, I think. One has to really be self-aware and self-critical, even while enjoying the hobby and the many good videos available. There has be to a lot more appreciation of what one has, rather than dissatisfaction for what one doesn't, I think. Consumerism works precisely by creating dissatisfaction, so that one purchases the next new thing; so one has to be careful not to allow oneself to be manipulated.
I agree with what you're saying - buying things because the act of buying is addicting, even when we have too much, even when we don't have the budget. I like what you say, "consumerism works by creating dissatisfaction", and it seems the way to counter that is to really enjoy what we have.
appreciate this video so much Karyna. I too watched Liane Likes and BoyRoy's videos a propo of FP burnout and I could relate big time. I just want to chill and enjoy my pens instead of being on the look out for the next one I need to buy and/or FOMO. I found that being on a no pen buy, has helped me get me out of my funk, also not consuming as much SM content. I just went through my whole collection the other day, I got out pens that I had not been using, I tested nibs that I'd given the shove, and it just brought me so much joy. I started my YT channel to share the little things of my FP journey with like minded, but I noticed that no one really viewed the little things videos, the NEW PEN day or the Currently Inked vids got the most views, and that was discouraging to me. I think that was also a burn out moment for me . A lot of energy goes into making videos... So yeah, all this to say, I'm glad I'm not alone in feeling these feels. 😅
Katie, I truly enjoy your videos. I love the perspective and personality you bring to your content. Good for you for going through your collection and finding joy in what you have. And don't always worry about the views - you will find the community (or they will find you) that appreciates all you bring!
You were the first person I found when I started looking into fountain. And just like you said I bonded and enjoy your post and video, it’s like watching a friend and you feel you know them in a way. I get what you are saying and will always look forward to any video you make. Always take the time for yourself ❤
Love this video Karyna! One of the things I enjoy most about this hobby is the low barrier of entry and how regardless of budget almost anyone can join in the fun. I truly applaud when my favorite creators talk about the pressure that can come along and make people feel they need more and/or expensive pens in order to keep up. Of course it’s not the case but it can feel that way. A favorite experience I had was recently going to a new pen group meeting which had a few kids in attendance. I assumed at first they were dragged along but soon discovered the kids had small collections of pens, favorite papers, etc and were eager to talk about them. It was so refreshing and a wonderful reminder that what I love most is seeing others joy in this hobby and learning about the pens they truly love. As a note, the Pilot metropolitan was a firm favorite among the kids and what a great choice!
I love what you said about the low barrier of entry - everyone who owns a fountain pen, no matter the cost, can be part of this community! How great that the kids enjoyed it, too. My son owns a Platinum Shooting Star (?) and he loves it!!
Thank you so much. I got into fountain pens because of watching you but lately just do t feel it. This helps a lot. Going thru the same thing with stickers!
I gpt back and forth to planning and my stationery collection. Haven't used any of it much in the past several months, but I can feel the itch again. I have the luxury of coming and going, but if your work depends on being present and having something to say every week... Recipe for burnout. Take the time you need. We'll be here when you're ready.
Thank you so much, Lene. Making videos is actually something I enjoy doing, which wasn't the case four years ago! I have found a good balance and I think my content will now focus more on using what I have rather than a new pen all the time!
I have been burned out on fountain pens since October. I took a look at my collection and thought - I really don’t need all these pens. I don’t want more pens. I’ve tried so many at this point I honestly don’t think I will gain anything substantial by buying any more. So I put most up for sale and have whittled down to about 25, which is still more than I “need.,” but it’s enough for variety. I stopped watching most fountain pen content because it just felt like a consumerism hole. All this long-winded comment to say - I feel ya! It’s ok to be content with what you have. And to cut down on social media.
I am so sorry you've felt this way. And good for you for getting your collection down to 25. Thank you so much for your comment - it helps to know we're not alone.
Just like the other great comments, thanks for your take. I almost had burn out, but I wrangled myself in and stopped buying, re-evaluated things, came up with a plan that works for me. Now I rotate thru my pens (treating them like friends), and only shifting to another when the converter runs out. I've even made random gifts of some to others - that's also gratifying.
This video was going in so many different directions, from talking about burnout and to giving people a lesson on how we should let you and other people just be, buy it all that your heart desires so long is not causing problems in other areas of your life, like... finances ❤ I also hear a lot of disappointment, that dose of dopamine is gone and is getting boring but will ignite because that is how it is with anything we are passionate about, we pour our hearts out, it's all natural. Sending love to anyone who needs this today❤❤
Thank you for sticking through the video even if it was all over the place! Like you said, when we pour our hearts out about something we're passionate about... I may go on tangents! Thanks for watching.
Hi. Thank you for your video. As a psychologist, I can say that your thoughts are well addressed. Congratulations on the iniciative. That`s an important matter to discuss since this lovely hobby is imerged in social media and consumism. We need to rethink some things related to it. Not only with FPs, but in general. Cheers!
Thank you so much! I think we can get so caught up in the "pretty picture" that social media has us portray that we forget to recognize other feelings we may have.
I appreciate your content because you have always seemed authentic and enthusiastic about the hobby. Thank you so much for talking about this topic, it takes courage to do so. I am experiencing some of your “symptoms” and it is encouraging to know that I am not alone. I have faith that the good intentions that brought us into the hobby will prevail and bring us peace and joy - perhaps even more deeply felt after going through a challenging period. ❤
Thank you so much! I'm glad this was helpful. And I love what you said that we will prevail through the difficult times to make us more appreciative of the hobby after.
This is a great video Karyna. I’m thankful for my non-existent presence on social media. With the exception of UA-cam. Getting away from social media has really helped with the fountain pen burnout. But honestly and even more importantly it has helped in a lot of other ways. Your channel and only one other are the two I follow on UA-cam. I have discovered everything I have wanted following you and Anderson Pens. At one point I felt that I was wanting to like something and it wasn’t happening naturally. Like you said forced. Thankfully I was able to get past that quickly because that most likely would have ended up pushing me out of the hobby permanently. I may consume more videos or other posts when researching a possible purchase. Simply because if I’m going to spend a few hundred dollars or more on a pen or anything else for that matter I want to do my due diligence. Nobody needs to have any specific pen, amount of pens, or spent a certain amount to be a part of the community. You are right on point. Thankfully I have a few close friends who I am able to spend time with in person who enjoy fountain pens. It helps keep the hobby enjoyable. Plus the conversations you and I have had regarding pens, journals, and planners has been incredibly enjoyable. I really liked this video Karyna. Your willingness to share about your experiences and how you were able to continue to enjoy the hobby and community is amazing.
Thank you so much, Courtney! Social media has its great attributes but it can also have its negative, if consumed in an unhealthy way. I appreciate you watching my channel and taking the time to comment! I’m like you - I consume more pen reviews when researching a pen. Otherwise, I watch unboxings of people I enjoy watching - not for the pen, but for the person. You’re so lucky to have a community close by - I met other people here in my city at the Pelikan Hub, but it’s not a regular meet up, unfortunately. Thanks again for watching, Courtney!
Thank you for your honest video about fountain pen burn out. Helpful for me to understand feelings of burn out in another hobby, it is easy to get overwhelmed by all the content, nice products. Taking a break, questioning myself what attracted me to the hobby at first, helped me
Amazing, amazing video. Thank you so much for articulating a lot of what I have been feeling lately. This has been very eye opening and thought provoking.
Great video! I’ve tried so many pens over the years and decided I really want a small collection that represents my favorite brands. I don’t need 10 pens with a Jowo nib. One Vanishing point is sufficient even though I see so many beautiful ones I would like to have. At the end of the day…I want to reduce clutter and focus on pens that I pick up on a regular basis.
I love this! I'm guilty of having multiple pens of the same brand and model (hello Estie!) and my goal, somewhere down the line, is to have my 10-15 best pens. That's it!
Perfect topic and it hasn’t happened to me in pens, but it has definitely happened in other areas. I appreciate your sincere discussion and I know that it is important and it is something we all will experience at some point! Feeling like we are not alone is very important and helpful. Thank you
Thank you so much! I wasn't sure if others would relate but I'm so glad that so many, including yourself, have shared your experience. We are not alone, that's for sure.
Karina, so that you know some of your videos helped me making decisions. I also appreciate your honesty. I hope you recover from burnout whether you stay in this media or out. Good luck.
A great video and an important one. As delightful as it is to wake up to one of your videos, and believe me it is a treat, I hope you are getting the time off you need from content creation. I’m in awe of how you and other content creators generously share of your time and your talents. Believe me, it’s appreciated.
Thank you so much! I went through a stage where I was producing 7-8 videos a week (plus coinciding Instagram posts) when I was on The Happy Planner squad and it felt like a job. I lost the joy. I feel like I'm finding my balance, but also the right community! Thank you!
I really enjoyed this video. Thank you so much for sharing. I too have experienced burnout and it definitely comes after periods of high accumulation, and I too want to sell everything and start over. I just never do. 😂😂 I am really sad when people feel left out because they don’t have this, that, or the other thing. No, you’re part of the community if you have a fountain pen and enjoy it or use it or have questions about it or thoughts and feelings. All you have is a preppy? You’re in! Heck… no, I take that back. you’re part of the community even if you’re just expressing interest in a fountain pen but don’t have one (yet).
I hit that smash button! I can't really relate to the burn out in the fountain pen hobby... I am still getting my sea legs when it comes to this hobby. I love all the content that I have consumed and I love all the pens that are now in my collection (and inks!) Thank you for sharing your perspective. Know that I really appreciate it.
This is so helpful, Karyna. I took a break from social media for almost 2 years because of the very things you mention; the pressure of FOMO, comparison, monies spent, fast accumulation, etc. I have way too many planner covers and pens I haven't touched in 2 years. I'm now looking to destash and become more intentional in what I actually use or things I enjoy. I don't know where the best place is to destash pens, but I'm going to begin that process. (Edited: I am watching another of your videos and you mention Virtual Pen Show on IG, so I'll give that a try! Thank you!!) If it helps someone just beginning the journey, that will bring me the joy that I've been missing. Thanks so much for sharing!
It took me time to destash my planners and sticker books but it was such a relief once it was done! And yes to Virtual Pen Show - a great way to reach a lot of people. Good luck!
I've watched a few of your videos and have always enjoyed them, but this is the one that made me subscribe. Thanks for being authentic. I'm still new to the hobby and I'm already trying to figure out ways to limit myself to avoid burn out.
Thanks so much, Karyna. Really appreciate this because I've come to some kind of crossroads, too. I'm on a pen-and-ink-buying moratorium and have also not been watching as many UA-cams, though I really like you all.😅
I love this. I also sometimes feel the FOMO. But thanks for reminding that we should enjoy and cherish the activity not on the things we have. Dont compare, use as inspiration only. If you can affod then you can try for the “experience” ❤
Thank you Karina for sharing your experience with us. I didn’t know it was such a thing. I started following you from the HP Community but now I’m Common planner & Hobonichi. For awhile I didn’t want to purchase custom pens because they started to all look alike. I was trying to use all of my pens at once. So I reduced my currently inked, stayed off social media for a little bit and that helped bring me out of the slump. Now I can enjoy the collection of pens, nibs and inks.
Thanks for sharing!! I'm starting to feel that way about some of the custom pens. And yes, trying to use them all at once - you're spreading yourself too thin. I am definitely more mindful about what social media I am consuming and how much.
I started collecting fountain pens about 6 years ago when I had started contracting and needed a quick way to capture notes in meetings. Every time I completed a big project I decided to treat myself to a new pen as a reward. The way I look at my collection is that it represents certain stages of my work and successes.
@@KarynaLovesToPlan yes I always have a special pen in mind but as time goes on my tastes have also changed I started buying medium nib pens and then moved to broads now I’m heading more towards extra fine nibs.
Buying fountain pens was getting out of hand, because I kept noticing that the pens that I couldn't wait to get were laid to the side while I was buying and experiencing a newer pen. I'm not against trying out new fountain pens because perhaps there is one that is extremely comfortable for the individual's hand/grip. After your video yesterday I calculated the money I saved by not buying the two newest pens that I wanted and now that money can be saved for pens I'm really wanting to try. Definitely going to enjoy the pens I have now and stick with the very short goals list of fountain pens that I want to buy in the future.
I love this! Yes, we want to try and experience new things all the time, but what can get out of hand is the speed in which we do this without considering what we already have. Good for you!
I went through burnout as well with a full time creative career I had and had to step back a bit from that.. Now, I'm into creative journaling which has helped me a lot since this is my new outlet of creativity. I am scared I might burnout too with this new found joy of creativity, so I'm trying to be careful not to burnout.. I am taking notes from your experience. Thank you for sharing, Karyna.
Thank you for this video, such honesty and insights. I truly appreciate this in so many ways. I've recently came to some conclusions around my Happy Planner hoard with all the many, many, many sticker books I have. I've switched planners. I stopped but realized as well I need to focus on the things that bring me joy in relationship to my planning. I love this hobby because it's such a HUGE creative outlet in my life. I've been working on pairing down things but only buy what truly makes me happy and to gift others with some of the 'collection'. Thanks again for this video. I really enjoy watching. I love the idea of the fountain pen but just not ready. I know this is okay but I still love watching you swatch your inks and show off your beautiful pens. Keep on doing what brings you joy!
Thank you so much for still following my channel after moving away from The Happy Planner! Yes, part of what moved me away from HP was just the amount of stuff - and it was never ending. No matter how many sticker books we already had, there was always the newest one we had to get. I appreciate you watching even if fountain pens are not your thing!
Thank you for this episode, you are very relatable! This popped up in my feed and I am glad it did, I subscribed. It is easy to ignore what is really happening, I appreciate authentic and real chats!
Hi, my experience it’s very similar to yours and many people as well. In my case it’s phasic. I have this phases of buying a lot, being obsessed, then regretting the purchases and wanting to sell it all (burn out), but with different hobbies each time. Retro games, fountain pens, you name it. In my case it’s closely related with my life satisfaction, when I’m unsatisfied and disengaged with my responsibilities, habits, studies, I tend to focus on obsessive hobbies and the common thing is consumerism, aka buying things. I don’t really know the cause, but I hope my experience can help you shed some life in your situation.
Someone mentioned that hobbies have phases - the excitement and the obsession and the acquisition and the experimentation. Then, it almost becomes saturation then overwhelm. But you are also right that it ties to how our lives are - for me, this came around tax time and realizing how much tax I have to pay back (and how many pens that costs!). Thank you for sharing!
@@KarynaLovesToPlanYeah, I understand where you're coming from. I often feel guilty about spending too much money on hobbies, which is why I sometimes find myself in the selling phase.
Video really spoke to me. Long time crafter (project life/December daily) whose hobby developed along side the massive growth of social media. This video was a wake up call for me to get off instagram as the dopamine hit of scoring either a deal or finding something “exclusive” is too strong for me. I was heavily influenced by social media this 12 months into trying a bunch of new expensive hobbies-first crazy washi and sticker hauls, then fountain pens, then crocheting and knitting. Im in the midst of battling an incurable cancer so I just indulged in all the things but recently, I spent nearly 1000 dollars on two pens that I haven’t even inked up because I don’t like how they feel in hand. I think i only bought them because of the limited edition hoopla the creator creates around each fortnightish launch. Each hobby cycle of obsession seems to last about three months for me until I get burnt out. Reminds me of the social media manipulation scenes in the documentary, “The Social Dilemma.”
Thank you so much for sharing your experience. I understand how social media can drive us to find the next big trendy thing. So we (myself included) need to control the content we're taking in to protect our own peace!
Been to the hobby Dec 2023, it’s about how you enjoy the pen and ink and paper and not the price. If you’re happy with cheap brand that is fantastic so be it. Contentment is a gift, as opposed to non stop buying to satisfy an unsatisfiable lust. It’s just a hobby to release some stress if the hobby becomes stressful it’s time for a change. More power to you 🙃
Absolutely - one of the things I've started doing again is transcribing, to give me more reason to use my pens and inks. And yes, journaling and writing does release stress. Thank you!
Since a few months I have gone off the "new pen" videos because they became just uncomfortable and stressful to watch. But I still love new ink videos. It just isn't possible to be buying or having as many pens as youtubers and content creators have and it's really unpleasant after a while. With inks it's different because you can have samples etc. so it's more feasible. I think you're video was really honest and smart and thank you for saying it because sometimes you just have to say no to some content and realize what is good for you.
Absolutely. Control the content you are taking in to help your mental health. I only watch new pen videos of people I like to watch - not for the pen itself, but because I like to hear these specific people get excited about their new pens. It's more about the person than the pen. Thank you for sharing!
Hi Karyna, thank you for showing vulnerability and being honest about feeling burnout. It must have been overwhelming for you. I have just started my pen journey and have already been swept up in it too quickly buying 3 pLatinum pens within a month. I get anxious and overwhelmed quite easily so decided that that will do for now and am buying samples of ink as they can get expensive too. I became more minimalist a few years ago and that helped with my anxiety, but it would be even harder being a content creator. Enjoy watching your videos.
My motto has recently become. A good pen is a pen you love to write with. A great pen is a pen you love to write with every day. My goal is to get my collection of pens down to collection of good pens and eventually great pens. I think that's the path of contentment. It's not what is "new" or "trendy" it is curating a collection that I love writing with every day. If the next new pen brings that joy and I fall out of love for one then its an even swap. But why keep pens that I don't love? I don't want to accumulate a hoard of pens like a Tolkien dragon. I don't want to have to acclimate to my hoard of stuff. I want the BIlbo life. A few great pens (my pen garden) and a lot of great people! Cheers! ^_^
Thank you for this! I am slowly trying to curate my collection to those I love writing with and love writing with every day. In my job, I don't always write every day so I have to make an effort to use what I have. And I love the Bilbo reference! Thank you!
As far as burnout is concerned, I fell into the hobby around 2012 and I bought a lot of things and then I got to the point where I felt like I had so much that I was no longer into the new and shiny and went through close to a decade of not buying anything new (pen or ink. I was still hoarding the first iteration of TRP paper and notebooks). Now granted, I write every day because I plan and I journal so I was using my pens...just not consuming during that time. Now (within the last 2 years) I've delved back into the hobby and have been buying the things, but I am feeling as if I'm due for another cycle of just enjoying what I have without anything new. I have over 80 pens and more than 100 bottles (I'm so close to emptying my first bottle of ink) and I'm getting that urge to just use what I have and enjoy what I have...well outside of that perfect pastel pen I am coveting.
Thank you for sharing your cycle. Someone mentioned that hobbies are cyclical - we have our periods of accumulation, then our periods of just utilization where we step back from acquiring. I think I'm getting into the stage of just enjoying what I have, too!
Thank you for this video! It's what I needed to hear because I feel super alone these days; everyone seems to be enjoying all their stationery and I just want to get rid of everything I have aside from one single notebook and a ballpoint because I am just SO tired. Consumerism, receiving products samples, not creating for myself anymore, not being able to really enjoy pens/inks/paper before new ones come in, not having enough space, comparing myself to others with any kind of talent. And so on and so on. Add life to it (also winter fatigue) and it's not a good mix 😂 I'm stepping down for sure. I might sell of some items eventually when I find some focus. But really, I am going to keep a single notebook and a ballpoint for me - for planning, journaling and whatever. Then a separate notebook for content creation with fountain pens in form of quotes like I used to do before. Hopefully that will help! And I'll take it from there while I shift my mindset to a more healthy one. While I am happy to hear others share their own experience I am sorry to hear you felt this way. So so happy you are in a better place now. Thank you, from the bottom of my heart, for sharing your thoughts and feelings ❤️
Thank you so so so so much for this. And I am so sorry that you are going through this, too. It's something we don't hear about often, in any hobby, as it seems "taboo" in social media to only share the positives. Sending healthy healing vibes!
Thanks for this very insightful chat. I can only imagine how easy it must be for someone to experience burnout when they are also producing content (and pethaps feeling pressure to keep putting our content regularly). I hope the content creators know that when the non-influencers among us experience burnout, we may need to expose ourselves to less video content. For me, burnout is not just about making less purchases, although that is certainly part of it. It also feels like a stepping back from all if it is necessary sometimes -- the ink swatching, the currently inked videos, the unboxings -- it can feel like I'm spending my time AND my money in the wrong way. I have solved this, in part, by really thinking about which content creators I like most and spending my time with them while ignoring the other videos that pop up in my feed. Because as you say, it's ultimately about the people and not the pens. Similarly, I try to spend my hobby time on the activities I enjoy, rather than mindless scrolling. Being mindful of what you're doing and why is the key. Whatever decision works for us at the life stage we're in can be the right one. I actually need to watch myself on inks too, and make sure I'm not just buying inks because they are cheaper than pens and I want to continue to buy something...anything. Or because of FOMO -- if I have a dozen teal inks already, do I really need this new teal ink because everyone is talking about it? Burnout keeps my consumerism in check, and that is a good thing. It is an emotional response that protects me from myself long enough to let my reasoning brain kick in.
So well explained! I watch only certain creators because they feel like friends, rather than someone trying to sell me a product. And when we are mindful of the content we are taking in, it makes us mindful of our own consumerism. At the end of the day, no matter what content creators produce, we are in control of what we consume and therefore buy. Thank you, as always, Marilyn!
❤ c’est tellement vrai ! La comparaison vole le bonheur ! Je suis en train de traverser cette expérience de burn-out et de frustration permanente ! Merci beaucoup pour cette vidéo 👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽👍🏽❤
Thank you so much (apologies for not responding in French)! Hope you are able to give yourself some rest during the burnout and frustration and you're able to find your way back to the hobby!
I feel this way as well, but to a lesser extent because I don't post much on social media about it (so no pressure for content). But I've accumulated too much still, and have spent too much, while admiring things in other people's collections. I'm trying to reassess now and have sold three pens already this weekend (a lot for me!). I definitely need to stop scouring the Coming Soon sections on websites and focus on enjoying the pens and inks I already have and genuinely love. I'll always want to try new things, I just need to slow it down a little. 😅
Good for you for selling three pens! Another viewer mentioned that she chooses what content to look at and watch, for the purpose of "protecting our peace". If it means turning off notifications or unsubscribing to emails for a while, then do what works for you!
I heard someone say on another video if you’re buying your own pens to have content then you’re doing this wrong. I can’t afford to be trendy or competitive in the race to get these pens so thanks for that!! My guy friend has been buying fountain pens since the late 70s and he has about 50 pens so it’s bewildering to me when people say they’ve been part of this community a few years and they have 90 pens. Great video, it has some valid points
Absolutely agree - I came into this hobby knowing that I didn't want to buy pens just for content. Not hopping on the latest limited edition or new release, and so far, it's been good! Everyone comes into this hobby differently, with different budgets. And social media and the internet has made information more readily available which makes the pens more readily available, versus in the 70's, you could only go to brick and mortar stores. So acquiring is going to vary now than it did in the 70s. Thank you for watching!
Being meta about my fountain pen hobby, Pen Royboy spurred an epiphany about it, and summed up in pen, ink, paper, ideas & experiences, and mind. With a good accumulation of pens with various sizes & uses, it has lead me to writing poems during cherry blossom season in the patk, and my last ink purchase of Kon Peki. Commercial burnout is not worth the guilt & shame, and lucky that the eureka moment has me focused on pen experiences. Hope you find your own, and write on.
Thank you for sharing your beautiful experiences. What great memories you'll have - not just the written word on the page, but where you were and what you were writing with on that day. Thank you!
I limit myself to 10 fountain pens and max. 3 different inks. If I really "need" a new pen, I have to figure out which one has to go first. I want to use and enjoy them and 10 is for me already the upper limit to fully appreciate them individually. Also only if I used up one ink I will buy very consciously a new one as it will be with me during my actual writing experience for a considerable time. I set limits to not stumble into the unconscious traps of fomo or acquisition just for owning things instead of really using and enjoying them.
You are one of my favourite fountain pen content creators, Karyna. Your videos are always among my priorities to watch when it comes to UA-cam time. But I'd rather you have the enjoyment of the hobby than I have more Karyna videos to watch. Please don't ever feel like you're letting people down if you take a step back from doing unboxings or "buying for content." I mention this because you mention being "guilty" of producing content about consumption, but I bet you get tons of views on that content. We, your viewers, like it! But I'm in the same boat as you--I watch them because I want to see what Karyna or Simone or Katie or Elyse or whoever think about their new pens, not so much for the new stuff itself. I'd also love to watch content about your pens over time, or a Zentangle With Me, or about your ink paintings, or whatever else you want to do with this space. And if that's nothing, that's okay too. You deserve your hobby spaces to be places for fun, not pressure.
Thank you for this, Sarah! I did go through a time where I felt like I did purchase things just for content, and I recognize that I am in a privileged position to be able to do that. But it's not why I got into the hobby. And thank you for encouraging me to share or not share. There are things I keep private (like painting) because it requires a lot of my energy and filming it may take some joy from that. Thank you so much for your comment - it means a lot!
I definitely experienced burnout a few months after I started my channel. I felt a lot of pressure to have certain planners and supplies, too. But because I went through that, once I got into FPs I I knew better. I probably will never buy a newly released pen. I don't see the point of it. 99% of the time they go on sale for 25-30% off about a month later. Also, like I said earlier, I'm not trying to prove myself to the FP community. I like what I like and share what I've learned.
Love this! I am like you - I am intrigued by the new releases but I don't need to have every single one of them, just to create content on my channel. We buy what we will love and use! I also love your channel and love what you share!
Thank you!!! I wasn't feeling burnout but I also was really sad about missing on pens. I cannot afford most pens currently but seeing everyone enjoy is fun and little sad. But, I also remember we have resellers so hopefully I will find it again if it's meant to be. Also smash that button is such a Safiya phrase xD
That's FOMO you speak of. And that is hard - but know that the right pen for you is out there, and if it's meant to be, it will be. It sounds corny but it's true!
I kinda feel privileged because well... I've never even thought of the concept of fountain pen burnout before, for many reasons. One small reason may be that I've been introduced into the hobby fairly recently. I've only learned about the existence of fountain pens in May 2022, and I've only purchased my first one a month later. That may be a reason but the bigest factor is that... I've been sheltered. For my whole journey until more recently that I'd like to admit, I was limited to the pen store that I worked at. I only focussed on the brands that we carried, about their quick history, their products, etc... But I never went that far beyond that. It's only since last fall that I've started to expand my knowledge and... Holy Cross there are so many things that I missed!! We don't carry much, and the littlwe we carry are either legacy brands (Sheaffer, Parker, Waterman...) or "luxurious" brands (Caran d'Ache, ST Dupont, Pelikan...). We do carry brands like TWSBI, Lamy, Esterbrook... But outside of the pen community hey're overlooked by our snob customer base that only wants ballpoints corporate gifts... (I'm not saying they're not selling well, our Safaris and Ecos sells by the shovel!). So outside of our regulars, I had little to no contact with the outside world. That is, until my saviour Karina Palacio (check her instagram @kari.bullet.journal !) came in clutch! She usually does promotion for our pen store and other retailors/distributors/brands, but we became super friends and she finally made me touch grass for the first time. What. A. Revelation. With lots of convincing from her, my boss allowed me to go to Scriptus, the Toronto pen show, and although I was limited to our own table, I had a little break to eat a bit and roam around the show. Kari immediatly took me by the ear and made me buy a vintage pen (Parker Vacuumatic, 1947) and this opened the door to a whole new world So... You're telling me that I've been missing out on brands like Benu? Leonardo? Aurora? You're telling me that Esterbrooks are actually loved in the community? You're telling me Parker, Cross, and aaall the legacy brands used to make genuine innovations on filling systems and materials? My whole world was turned upside down. I had almost learned everything there was to know about the products we carried, but now I was able to learn not only about other brands, but to RELEARN everything I knew about the ones I carried, on a duration of more than a HUNDRED YEAR!! Since then, I've been on a bookworm rampage. I learned about pre-WWI Waterman, the different filling systems, what are pens made of, what WERE they made of, different crafting techniques, the nibs!! Architects, UEFs, Obliques, friggin' Sailor nib weilding witchcraft!! And now I want everything lol! I want a Sheaffer Snorkel, I want a Pineider Quill nib, I want a Platinum Coarse, I want a Namiki Maki-E... But I don't take that overwhelming amount of informations as "burnout fuel" if I can say it like that. It's the opposite actually. My nerd-ass know-it-all-ass CRAVES informations! So I just absorb whatever knowledge is laying around Just 2 weeks ago, I was introduced to another concept by Karina. She invited me to a "mini pen show" organized by Scriven in Montréal Verdun. It was suuuuper small in a café, there was maybe 10 people but... Everyone knew each other!? Don't tell me... It was a COMMUNITY!? There were awesome folks there doing exchanges, showing off their small buisnesses and all. I bought 2 pens there: My first ebonite pen from a guy named Darrin (he makes them himself! Buys the material then shoves a JoWo #6 on them!) and an Esterbrook J (1950s) From Fifteen Pens, my first Oblique!! I won't see them often since they're based in Ottawa, but if they come in town again, I'll be there for sure! TLDR: Nerd finally touches grass after being sheltered in his cave, Nerds is beyond excited
Thank you for making this thoughtful video, Karyna. Thank you for creating a space for us to think and share about this topic. I have always been a hobbyist. Be it scuba diving, cooking, gardening, quilting, indoor plants, planners, pens or ink. Hobbies are a part of me. However, I pay very close attention to my relationship with my hobby. My hobbies tell me when I’m escaping and when I’m not coping well with every day life. They tell me when I’m ignoring my budget. I ask myself, will I feel guilty?” or “why in the world do I feel guilty?” about buying this pen. Do I feel guilty for doing something just for me. Am I “protest planning” in that I’m playing with my stationary because I’m just sick of spreading myself thin. Or, maybe I’m asserting myself and my joy of solitary hobbies. I think the term you used was just, perfect…..”symptoms of your burnout”. I can be intolerant of the symptoms and just try to eradicate the evidence. Sell everything, organize, give away. Now, after so many years and self acceptance, I simply pay attention and try to be present with my purchases. For me, it’s at the time of purchase when I need to do the gut check. I know my energy and interests enough to say, I will never use that in which case, I won’t buy it. I also know when I’m not sure if I’ll use it, but sense that something will truly inspire me to use it; like watercolor or gouache paint. For my existing possessions, that served some sort of purpose, be it emotional or functional, if it makes me squirm when I see it, I must bless it, thank it, and let it go.
Thank you so much for sharing your thoughts and feelings about hobbies, and how it can manifest itself. A lot of it is about recognizing and being mindful of how we're feeling or coping with life. I am the same way when I look at my current pens - if I don't feel joy, or something about it makes me cringe or go ick, then I sell!
Thank you for this video. I love watching your pen and ink videos. Your voice soothes me. Recently I also came to the conclusion that I have too many pens and I don't write with them every day. I decided to sell or give away a few. I'm at the stage of deciding which ones will become me. I also made a note to myself that I would only buy one pen per year. Maybe it will work :-)
Hello Karyna, I appreciate your honesty and pointing out the things that can cause a burnout. I am guilty of „wanting the next big thing“ before enjoying my collection and gladly my budget sets the limit. For me, the unboxing videos have big value (only if they are honest!!) because I can better evaluate if a pen would be comfortable for me- f.ex. Simone talking about her M800 green demonstrator being just a tad too short and small (grip) brought me to the conclusion, that this holy grail is not for me. And I crossed it happily from my list. You’re right that the community grew very fast due to social media, what brings companies to throw out new pens on the market every week. And I noticed also an increase of prices (of course). That’s my only „explanation“ for buying classics from my wishlist -like the Lamy 2000 or Pilot capless- now and not waiting for fountain pen day in November. As for limited editions, I’m overthinking and then they are mostly sold out -so that saves me ☺️ For future I would LOVE to see more „exploring my collection“ from creators. Just taking a pen and inking with different inks and comparing that f.ex. Or making the explorations like you did. It doesn’t have to be only „currently inked“ and „new haul“ videos.
Thank you so much for this. I've heard from other people that "new pen day" can get a little exhausting, but also hard for some creators to keep up with. I agree with exploring what we have is also really interesting. Yes to the unboxings - I like watching specific creators because they have similar interests to me. Plus, it's like watching a friend open a present.
@@KarynaLovesToPlan thank you for answering. Yes, „new pen day“ can be too much (and boring if it’s too many) and perhaps a better way is a short unboxing and then a really good test (honest first impressions, what changes, what do I love/ what not). You give a lot of information in your unboxing already 😌 And you had a series „one year later“- that was also very interesting and helpful!
I left a comment earlier, maybe it was deleted... Your collection and videos are some in the FP 'community' that I always looked at with admiration. I thought you just enjoyed having a ton of pens!😀 The Fountain pen subreddit has helped me navigate the consumerist bend of the stationery industry. On the FP subreddit so many people share their 5, 6, 7 pen collection and I'm so happy to see people find their 'pen peace'. I have found pen peace but after about 20-something pens (some of them I've gotten rid of over time 😅)
I'm so sorry, Lise! Not sure what happened to your previous comment. Yes, FP on reddit has been helpful as well. I like seeing everyone's collections - from small to big, and I love learning about what people love and what makes their collections personal to them. Good for you for finding pen peace! I think I am getting closer to that but not there yet! Thank you for taking the time to comment not once but twice!
I really appreciated this video! I did not see PenBoyRoy's yet but I will go and watch it. I am not a youtube content creator, just a consumer I guess. But I have been in the FP community for about 2 1/2 years and I am kind of overwhelmed at how many pens I have now and I try to sell them, but I feel like the amount of social media coming at me is on warp speed and I just browse my email and I get the latest and greatest delivered to me on a daily basis. I really feel like I have a wonderful collection, but I honestly don't think I will ever be able to sell them and recoup any money. I did see that Vincenzo from Fountain Pen Therapy was revisiting some old pens that he had not touched in years and that is probably something we all should do with our collections. Revive some of the old neglected pens that we have forgotten about and see why we maybe bought them in the first place. I think I'm going to try that approach instead of buying something new. Also, I am a big vintage pen person. I recently bought a Parker douofold Yellow mandarin barrel and then used parts that I had from a black duofold and created a frankenpen that looks like a bumblebee. It has a vintage flex nib on it too! Doing things like that can be fun and interesting and can make you appreciate the things you have laying around when you can turn them into something unique. I liked seeing your face in this video too! Thank you!
Social media and emails and even Reddit and Discord - they can all contribute to this. I've had to turn notifications and subscriptions off for a time to help with that. As for selling - I don't do it to necessarily make a profit, or even recoup what I paid. I'll be happy if I can sell it for 80% of what I paid. I'd rather sell than keep anything I'm not using. What a great way to put parts of a vintage pen together, and what a way to keep it interesting. Thanks for watching!
I had seen this before. Pen Habit's Matt had called it off 6 years ago. Hope you come out strong.. But i totally get you. UA-cam doesn't pay enough to buy so many pens. Mathematically, its too much to buy new pens every week.
I don’t compare myself to others generally but I am just more exposed to more products through social media and email. More of a magpie thing than fomo. But equally harmful in terms of the impact on my wallet and having a comfortable clutter free home.
That is a goal for me, too - clutter brings so much anxiety and stress. Social media has definitely increased our exposure to products and even exposure to social media is overwhelming.
This is coming at a great time. My tastes have changed and I have so many pens I want to let go of so I can focus on the ones that do give me joy. I have enjoyed watching you so much. Please keep posting. I would love to see a video on the process of actually selling pens. I know with your store, you would have the ability to produce labels, etc. I would love someone to guide us through the "how to" part from start to finish. I don't understand what the types of payment means and how it works. I've rambled too long. Thanks again.
Thank you, Marjorie! I have been asked to do a "how to sell pens" video. I do need to do a bit of research because I think forms for Canada Post are going to be different than USPS. I'll keep this in mind!
Thanks, that would be so useful. I have about 20-25 pens to destash. Then I will try to follow the one in one out motto. My tastes have evolved so much. @@KarynaLovesToPlan
As far as UA-cam reviewers goes, I began watching basic contributers years ago with The Fountain Pen Habit with Matt Armstrong (no longer contributing, alas) so maybe a Burned Out situation there. Over the years I have been made aware of others who have become abruptly or gradually invisible; One Pen Show comes to mind. Ah, the inevitabile grandure of the World as it chews us up and spits us out or consumes us alive, I suppose..... "Alas, poor Yorick. I knew him, Horatio..."
Yes, there have been some UA-camrs or creators that have come and gone, not just in fountain pens but in stationery/planning hobby as well. Burnout led them to completely leave social media and not come back.
Hello karyna I ordered a M600 Blue Ef from amazon but they sent me another pen with a B nib in black colour. How can I confirm if it is 400 or 600 because there is no obvious difference between the two different models. I find your videos very successful. You are cheerful and beautiful. ❤👏🏻
The M400 is smaller than the M600, which is an obvious difference between the two. But if you ordered one thing and received the wrong thing, contact Amazon.
I don't know if the one I have is 400 or 600, so I don't know how to know if it's right or wrong. If you have 2 models, can you please tell me how many cm it comes without cover. I have that ring model and the other pelican right now. The information given on the internet about the dimensions did not seem correct to me. By the way, if you were to choose from the mont blanc series, would you choose the 149 EF or would you go for thin and small models? Thanks for responding quickly to messages, I hope you will be more successful.
@@Thuglifeeeeeeee I do not have both models. I suggest doing a Google search or going to GouletPens website which has all the measurements there. I am not a retailer so I am not the best person to answer your questions. I have never tried a Montblanc and do not plan to, so I cannot answer that either.
When enough people show enough interest in something to make it 'a thing', inevitably hierarchical structure, myths and so on are born. In the FP community there is a strong undercurrent that drives people to spend ever more on pens that don't give much more back to the user, just to 'keep up with the Joneses'. I've spoken about this on a few websites and been roundly shouted down by the longer term members - i.e. those who are often guilty of pushing the myth that FPs make you a better person and so on.
This is what gets me - that there are some people in the community that push the idea that you have to own specific pens in order to be a true fountain pen user. And it's so not true. It's such an elitist stance. We're part of this community if we own even one fountain pen and want to share that love! Thank you for sharing!
@@KarynaLovesToPlan No, thank you. It's brave to raise this subject on social media. This idea of constant 'wants' really erodes the joy we should be getting from appreciating and using what we have.
Great video!! This hobby feeds certain addictive behaviors… more more more! Consumption! But the endorphins soon recede after seeing the next beautiful pen. The remedy certainly is the concentration on the HOBBY itself: appreciation of writing. The hobby is USING pens, not buying stuff. By the way, lately, I see the Goulet guys quite critical. They want to sell stuff and feed you every day with disguised advertisements for enticing new stuff…
Okay Evergreen, I thought I was the only one that was skeptical about the G-Men. I have moved on from them. I try to find other vendors because I don't spend alot of money on my purchases is usually ink. And most of my pens are Chinese cheapos which some of them write so well. And with Goulet I will always, always pay for shipping. They seem to carry upper tier on their stuff, and always carry the trendiest. And they hardly have any sales.
Addictive is right. And yes, as soon as we've received the new thing, the endorphins are gone. And you're right, the remedy is to focus on the appreciate of what we have and using what we have. Thank you!
@@tbayless8324 I like Brian and Drew as people. But I hardly ever purchase from Goulet Pens. I did make an ink order from my birthday but before that, I cannot remember the last time I purchased from them!
I’ve completed my journey; just bought my holy grail pen and I’m done. But my collection is based on one version of a model that I found appealing. Frankly I don’t understand people who buy Sailors, Twsbis, Lamys, etc in every single color.
You don’t have to understand anyone else’s collection because we are all different. I have six Estie’s because I love how they feel in my hand and how they write. That does not make my collection any better or worse than anyone else’s - it makes it my own. Good for you for completing your journey!
@@KarynaLovesToPlan I guess it comparable to women who like a certain brand of lipstick so they have to have the same version in a multitude of colors. And that, I am guilty of, l lol.
I love pens. I love inks. But how much is too much? I am ready to part with pens and ink, which, in reality, I will not use. "Stuff" serves no purpose. At this point, I want to write for the pleasure of what I am holding in my hand and the color of ink that suits my eye.
How much is too much is truly a personal thing. Some feel too much is when you're unable to use what you have regularly. For others, that number is different.
I have decided to limit my pen purchases, I realized I do not need one of everything. I want just a few, probably less than 5 or 6, a couple middle of the road pens and I do want a Montblanc fountain pen, I have 4 Montblancs, just no fountain pen. I think MB is the fountain pen all others are judged by. Are they the best, probably not but I do still want one. I know how you feel, I have reached "burn out" with a couple of my other hobbies, I still enjoy them but have scaled way back, both in purchases and participating. For some people social media can be the worst thing that ever came along, it needs to be used wisely.
You are right - we do not need one of everything. Finding what you like and what you will use is a journey. What you like at one stage in your life you may not like later on. And yes, social media needs to be used wisely - curated, like our hobbies!
@@KarynaLovesToPlan I actually have NO social media accounts, I don't need all the negativity from people who do not know me. I have always said social media is a cesspool. talking about tik-tok etc. For me UA-cam has been a great resource for many things. Smart decisions need to be made about what you watch.
Thank you. This has helped me. I am where you were. I need to go back to what brings me joy.
Hope you find the joy again!
I truly related to you in this video. I had to step back and stop comparing myself to others. That is the biggest cause of my burnout. We have to remember to make our journey personal. It is more fun that way.
Thank you! And yes, comparison is what can cause us to feel FOMO and then unhappiness with what we have, which can lead us to want and buy more. Every person’s journey is unique and that’s what’s great about the hobby!
- We have to remember to make our journey personal. It is more fun that way. - You've inspired a journal topic for me, thank you! Very well said.
Thank you so much for sharing your thoughts and reflections on this important topic. I resonated with a lot of your points, and I agree that social media can be wonderful and stressful when it comes to engaging in hobbies. I’m newer into the fountain pen hobby, but I went through a similar burnout with other hobbies in the past, and it really got me down. I deactivated my IG account last June, and while I sometimes feel fomo, I was in a place where I couldn’t have a healthy relationship with it, so I ended it for the time being. I like how UA-cam sparks a lot of great conversation and authenticity. I’m also glad you were able to reconnect with your joy to the hobby - that felt like a very nice conclusion to your video to me! 💗
Good for you for recognizing what was unhealthy for you and for removing it from your life. And you're right about UA-cam - I've had some great conversations with people and it's amazing what we can share in this community. Thank you!
Great video. I recently cut my collection down. It was not enough to like a pen I had, I needed to be writing with it. My collection now is smaller but i am using all the pens in it. I am far happier with my collection now.
Thank you for sharing, Darrin! Good for you for recognizing what your collection is for you.
@@KarynaLovesToPlan I think excitment causes us to collect at a high rate early on. It can happen in any hobby, after all we are human. Once more thank you for a great video.
Culling can be therapeutic for sure. Glad you've found happiness from a smaller collection. Happy writing!
@@Topscura it truly is! Letting something go is sometimes more satisfying than acquiring!
What a breath of fresh air, thank you for your honesty and philosophical thoughts about the topic! I hope the guilt subsides because your videos inspire so many folks, including me. I know it’s also complicated so I appreciate this video that looks at multiple sides, thank you!
Thank you, Liane! You inspire me, too. I'm in awe of your curated collection and how you explore what you have.
I always look forward to your videos! Thank you for putting yourself out there! I truly understand the burn out, but for me instead of selling everything, I put it away for a few days, like right now I have been burned out with daily journaling. I haven’t journaled in over a month, which I have beat myself up over since both of my daughters are seniors. One a senior in college and the other is a senior in high school. These are such precious times, but I think for me, it has not been my pens or my journal, but that it’s just an overwhelming time. It really has nothing to do with my pens and journal, but the reality yesterday my life is drastically changing. So thank you for your video! Thank you for helping me to address my burnout!
Thank you, Steph! Taking a break is so needed when things can get overwhelming. Not just with our hobbies, but with life in general. We need that time to recharge and come back with the energy we had when we started. Take care - it sounds like you've got a lot on your plate. Journaling will always be there for you when you're ready!
Awww seniors yayyy my 37 year old daughter just got on a flight to South America and I’m up at 5am watching pen videos lol I can imagine your life being overwhelming right now. You gotta appreciate things as they occur
I would like to thank you from the bottom of my heart for this video. You raise an extremely important issue that few people want to talk about. Few people have the courage to admit to burning out their passion. You are absolutely right that social media is driving this whole machine. You also mention the desire to make a name for yourself in the rather hermetic community of fountain pen enthusiasts. Admittedly, I don't have social media myself, but I sit on fountain pen forums and often feel mismatched, lost and inferior because I don't buy pens for millions of dollars.
Thank you so much for sharing! Please don't ever feel that you do not have a place in the community - if you have a fountain pen, and you love it, and want to share that with others, then you are part of this community! Fountain pens shouldn't be a status symbol i.e. owning a Montblanc is the epitome or goal. If you love your collection and it works for you, then that is what matters.
Thanks for sharing this important conversation, Karyna. Even though I'm new getting back into fountain pens, I do find myself overwhelmed at times and I need to step back. I don't want to step away from the community, though, so it's really helpful for me to draw a distinction between the collecting and the community. Thanks for your calm voice of reason! 😊
Thank you! Yes, there is a distinction between collection and the community. I've found the fountain pen community so helpful, both during times of excitement and sadness.
Your self awareness along will serve you well. Distinction between the collecting and the community....great food for thought.
Total respect for your honesty!!! I appreciate you telling it like it is. I ventured into the hobby at the same time you did. I've done a hard stop on purchases. I'm enjoying what I have. Note for pen hobbyists: Stay away from the UA-cam online retailer podcasts. I'm looking at you Goulet Pens! They are slick, well-produced full movie length advertisements 😅
The pen retailers are definitely tempting - it is part of their jobs, and it is up to us to consume what we want to. And learning to appreciate the new releases for what they are without wanting to buy every single one!
Karina, I enjoyed your discussion of burnout. For me, using, writing with my pens is much more important than owning a pen. I remind my self I am not a collector but an enthusiast. In the last year I purchased a beautiful hand made pen box made by Ray Jones. It was not a need but brings me joy and allows me to display my pens. When I ordered a box, I chose a box that would hold 20 pens. That is my limit. I have been using fountain pens for more than twenty years. I currently own 15 pens. For me to buy a pen it has to be very special to me. When I hit twenty pens, I will have to sell or gift a pen before I buy another.
Thank you for your thoughtful exploration of our hobby.
I did a video maybe a year ago on whether one was a user and a collector, and I would rather be more on the user side. It sounds like you know exactly what you want from your pens, and you're all the better for it. And it's absolutely okay to splurge on something that will bring us joy, and if it continues to bring us joy, then it's fulfilling its purpose! Thank you for sharing!
Well said!
Thank you for your honesty. I'm certain a lot of people can relate to it.
Thanks for watching! And from what I can see in the comments, many do relate!
GREAT video. It has really made me think. Burnout may mean different things to different people so I can relate in varying ways. Thanks so much Karyna.
Thank you, Tiff! Burnout can manifest differently in everyone. Hope this was helpful!
I think the culture around using social media and consumerism in general can send anyone down a rabbit hole of seeking a rush from fixating on a category of things and then trying to find the next best thing to keep the happy feelings going. And it just so happens, fountain pens are a category of product that are highly collectible. Plus-despite the community growing pretty quickly-it’s still small enough to feel truly niche, which adds to its allure.
All this is to say, I think the world is sort of set up for us to lean into our desire to own things we like and almost obsessively acquire them, whether it’s fountain pens or something else. As a serial hobbyist I’ve seen similar things happen to people (including myself) who collect everything from records to sneakers, handbags, and Pokémon cards.
Personally it’s not about comparison for me and I’ve not reached burnout per se, but I do know my personality is susceptible to this culture of consumerism and I try to check myself by working through what I know to be the irrational impulses that make me feel like I NEED to have things just because I like them, or because I somehow associate my collection of objects to be an expression of my personality. I have to actively remind myself that I am who I am and I like what I like regardless of whether I have physical evidence to hold in my hand. I don’t have anything to prove to myself, and I’m not a different person or missing a part of myself if the stuff I admire doesn’t live rent free in my space.
Thank you for your thoughtful reply, Lori!
You've hit the nail on the head when it comes to social media and consumerism, and this culture of "needing" the newest thing right now!
And I'm also learning that just because something is beautiful and I admire it, it doesn't mean I need to have it.
Been feeling some type of way since February. I bought 4 pens in one month, and went thru a ton of emotions, especially when two of them didn’t perform as expected out of the box. Couldn’t place a word to describe the feeling, but it put me off of buying pens for a little bit. I mean, it’s also enough to hold me over because it’s been the equivalent of one pen a month. I haven’t had as much enthusiasm over new releases either. It helped me catch what was real joy over a new pen release versus what was actually fomo-induced joy. I kinda want to make a video about this too. Don’t know if I will, but at the very least, thank you and liane and pen boy Roy for putting a term to this and making me realize what it is.
"Real joy" - yes! Just like the Marie Kondo method - what we keep should bring us joy, and if it doesn't, what is the point? I now take that principle into every purchase. Will this bring me joy? And is it long lasting joy or FOMO-induced-slash-hunting-for-the-next-new-thing? Thank you!
Always tough when pen doesn’t meet expectations much less over delivering. Best of luck finding balance and enjoying your hobby solely for you without the pressures to shop. Hopefully, you do share that video when you're ready.
I dont know what I'm feeling right now right now for me I'm feeling disappointment about my pens about my community about my status with youtube ... I've been putting videos on youtube for going on 20 years and I'm still not a full partner its me I know it is I might not be everyone cup of tea and thats fine but I think I have something to contribute to the world weather people want to watch me is up to them. talk about feelings of missing out ... I think you are a wonderful creator your videos always bring a sense of stable joy to my feed and I appreciate all you do for our little community its growing so fast.
You need to do what works for you, not for status or views or numbers. We all contribute to this community in different ways. Thank you for what you do!
Thank you
I am with ya on all these things. Hugs. 🥰 I got into it 14 years ago & left it for over 13 years to have a young kid & focus on family & work. It was a good break. But now, I only buy for my art work needs & no more because saving money & having time to do your life & being happy & healthy is very important. I hope you find a life balance soon. 💙💜❤️🥰 Thank you.
Thank you, Lisa! Finding a balance is important, for sure. I think I am getting closer to that, and sitting with what I have and enjoying my current collection will help me find that balance.
@@KarynaLovesToPlan Thank you for sharing with us. I love that. Have a wonderful Sunday. ❤️❤️❤️👏👏👏
Great video Karyna and I can totally relate. I got sucked in to the ‘new and shiny’ items, in several areas not just fountain pens - social media is one great big advertisement really. The more I watch, the more I feel like the market is becoming flooded with products; makeup, skincare, pens, inks, it just seems to be getting worse. What is it that we’re really all searching for when we buy these items? Instant gratification is great but not when it’s the thief of pure joy and appreciation. Much love xx
You have elegantly explained all of this! This instant gratification that lasts only an instant! Thank you!
Lovely beautiful video, Karyna! Thank you so much for sharing your thoughts. This is definitely a topic that is not talked about much in the fountain pen community since there's just so much influx of new pens, new inks, and the constant need to stay relevant in this economy as it is such a niche hobby. I think everyone will come to a point of experiencing some form of fountain pen burnout during their journey and you pointed out a lot of key factors that play huge roles in this. I think I would love to join in on the conversation and express my own feelings since I recently dove into a deep moment of depressed thoughts about my life that are affected by my pen hobby choices, but I was able to process and move through it. It really hits hard when it hits at a very vulnerable moment and then it can linger on steadily if you don't address it. I love how you gracefully reminded people to be kind in the comments section because we are not here to be mean to each other, we're here to share and learn from each other, and a screen should not make us forget that we can be kind to each other with our words. In this community, we are all enjoying this hobby at our own different paces - and that's perfectly fine! The only thing we should compare if you even need to compare - and only need to have in common are our passion and love for the hobby.
Thank you, Lao! That's so great that you were able to move and process through your feelings and burnout. It's not just about the hobby but what we're going through in our lives that affect how we feel about our hobbies. Always enjoy your videos, too!
I totally can understand what you’re going through. There’s always a new pen,
always a latest edition and limited edition like you said. And I was getting caught up in that rat race. It’s not good for your mental health either. So I have put a halt to this want want want. Because I can’t afford it and it was causing me frustration. Because I couldn’t have it.
I’m glad you voiced this because I think a lot of people were feeling like this. I have not been into this hobby very long and it was already consuming me. Thanks for sharing.
I'm so glad this was helpful. The fountain hobby should be a joyful thing, not one that causes you stress or frustration or is a danger to your mental health. Take care!
I was lucky enough never to have felt pressure to purchase more than I needed when it came to fountain pens. I'm still here with the same handful of pens since my first video way back when. I do think avoiding social media has helped. I spend a lot of time enjoying writing and stationery offline, building up experiences that I will share sometime in the future. I do enjoy your videos and admire your commitment to creating and sharing! Great video and really interesting topic. Thanks Karyna and all the best for your recovery. Sending positive vibes from Vancouver.
I am completely in awe of your collection and your practice as well. Your collection is one I strive for - once I get over the sparkle of all the limited and new. And I think I'm on my way. I've sold 15 pens so far this year, and I'm already 3 pens less than what I started the year with. Thank you so much for your input!
I appreciate you in this community. I’ve learned a lot from you. I consider myself a fountain pen novice but thanks to you and others you have helped me deepen my love for these pens. I feel excited and special using my pens everyday. I feel fancy! It’s the little luxuries in life for me. It’s definitely not about high end pens. Don’t let pen snobs get to you. My Pelikan Twist puts the biggest smile on my face and that’s what matters most 😊
Felicia, thank you so much for your comment. I love hearing about the excitement you have when using your pens. It completely is about enjoying the little things, isn't it!
Thank you for your vulnerability Karyna. I have not gone through an extended period of burnout yet, but I have definitely had, “What the heck are you doing?” moments. I try hard not to jump from one “cool” pen to another following trends if you will. That said, there are so many pens out there, new or vintage, that I could obsessively buy pens with no need for a trend. Limiting my time scrolling social media REALLY helps me. Letter writing is my main way to use my pens (other than work notes) and I try to focus there. Crossword puzzles have also been a blast lately, online so far, but i want to get some book so I can use my pens. Lastly, it must be so hard as a content creator. I know that my mood can live or die (at least for a few minutes) on the likes I get on a post, that must be exponentially more difficult for people who have channels to maintain. Keep well and let’s have FUN with our pens most of all.
Thank you Ben! Social media has been both good and bad. It's been great for finding a community and also discovering new pens. But as a content creator, it can also expose me to some not so kind comments, which, over the years, I think I've become better at handling but at the end of the day, we're human.
I use my pens for journaling, drawing and the inks for painting, too!
@@KarynaLovesToPlan I'm so sorry that some people are ugly with their comments. My Mama used to tell me, "Consider the source." Your value has nothing to do with their opinions about you, or even what you do online. It is inherent within you. 🙂
Watching a lot of pen videos, the dynamics of addiction seem evident for some. And I think some of the videos of some content creators stoke or encourage addictive patterns--unwittingly, I think. It is a wonderful hobby, but needing to have more and more pens and inks and notebooks when one already has so much, more than one can actually use, and sometimes more than one can afford, involves some unhealthy dynamics, I think. One has to really be self-aware and self-critical, even while enjoying the hobby and the many good videos available. There has be to a lot more appreciation of what one has, rather than dissatisfaction for what one doesn't, I think. Consumerism works precisely by creating dissatisfaction, so that one purchases the next new thing; so one has to be careful not to allow oneself to be manipulated.
I agree with what you're saying - buying things because the act of buying is addicting, even when we have too much, even when we don't have the budget. I like what you say, "consumerism works by creating dissatisfaction", and it seems the way to counter that is to really enjoy what we have.
appreciate this video so much Karyna. I too watched Liane Likes and BoyRoy's videos a propo of FP burnout and I could relate big time. I just want to chill and enjoy my pens instead of being on the look out for the next one I need to buy and/or FOMO. I found that being on a no pen buy, has helped me get me out of my funk, also not consuming as much SM content. I just went through my whole collection the other day, I got out pens that I had not been using, I tested nibs that I'd given the shove, and it just brought me so much joy. I started my YT channel to share the little things of my FP journey with like minded, but I noticed that no one really viewed the little things videos, the NEW PEN day or the Currently Inked vids got the most views, and that was discouraging to me. I think that was also a burn out moment for me . A lot of energy goes into making videos... So yeah, all this to say, I'm glad I'm not alone in feeling these feels. 😅
Katie, I truly enjoy your videos. I love the perspective and personality you bring to your content. Good for you for going through your collection and finding joy in what you have. And don't always worry about the views - you will find the community (or they will find you) that appreciates all you bring!
@@KarynaLovesToPlan thank you lovely
You were the first person I found when I started looking into fountain. And just like you said I bonded and enjoy your post and video, it’s like watching a friend and you feel you know them in a way. I get what you are saying and will always look forward to any video you make. Always take the time for yourself ❤
Aww thank you Carmen! I appreciate every comment you've made on my videos. ❤
Love this video Karyna! One of the things I enjoy most about this hobby is the low barrier of entry and how regardless of budget almost anyone can join in the fun.
I truly applaud when my favorite creators talk about the pressure that can come along and make people feel they need more and/or expensive pens in order to keep up. Of course it’s not the case but it can feel that way. A favorite experience I had was recently going to a new pen group meeting which had a few kids in attendance. I assumed at first they were dragged along but soon discovered the kids had small collections of pens, favorite papers, etc and were eager to talk about them. It was so refreshing and a wonderful reminder that what I love most is seeing others joy in this hobby and learning about the pens they truly love.
As a note, the Pilot metropolitan was a firm favorite among the kids and what a great choice!
I love what you said about the low barrier of entry - everyone who owns a fountain pen, no matter the cost, can be part of this community! How great that the kids enjoyed it, too. My son owns a Platinum Shooting Star (?) and he loves it!!
Thank you so much. I got into fountain pens because of watching you but lately just do t feel it. This helps a lot. Going thru the same thing with stickers!
Thank you! And it's okay to "not feel it" because excitement for something is not constant. It can vary depending on what is happening in our lives.
I gpt back and forth to planning and my stationery collection. Haven't used any of it much in the past several months, but I can feel the itch again. I have the luxury of coming and going, but if your work depends on being present and having something to say every week... Recipe for burnout. Take the time you need. We'll be here when you're ready.
Thank you so much, Lene. Making videos is actually something I enjoy doing, which wasn't the case four years ago! I have found a good balance and I think my content will now focus more on using what I have rather than a new pen all the time!
@@KarynaLovesToPlan That's awesome!
I have been burned out on fountain pens since October. I took a look at my collection and thought - I really don’t need all these pens. I don’t want more pens. I’ve tried so many at this point I honestly don’t think I will gain anything substantial by buying any more. So I put most up for sale and have whittled down to about 25, which is still more than I “need.,” but it’s enough for variety. I stopped watching most fountain pen content because it just felt like a consumerism hole. All this long-winded comment to say - I feel ya! It’s ok to be content with what you have. And to cut down on social media.
I am so sorry you've felt this way. And good for you for getting your collection down to 25. Thank you so much for your comment - it helps to know we're not alone.
Just like the other great comments, thanks for your take. I almost had burn out, but I wrangled myself in and stopped buying, re-evaluated things, came up with a plan that works for me. Now I rotate thru my pens (treating them like friends), and only shifting to another when the converter runs out. I've even made random gifts of some to others - that's also gratifying.
I love that - I often do ink swaps or gift inks to others. It's very gratifying, like you say.
This video was going in so many different directions, from talking about burnout and to giving people a lesson on how we should let you and other people just be, buy it all that your heart desires so long is not causing problems in other areas of your life, like... finances ❤ I also hear a lot of disappointment, that dose of dopamine is gone and is getting boring but will ignite because that is how it is with anything we are passionate about, we pour our hearts out, it's all natural. Sending love to anyone who needs this today❤❤
Thank you for sticking through the video even if it was all over the place! Like you said, when we pour our hearts out about something we're passionate about... I may go on tangents! Thanks for watching.
Hi. Thank you for your video.
As a psychologist, I can say that your thoughts are well addressed. Congratulations on the iniciative. That`s an important matter to discuss since this lovely hobby is imerged in social media and consumism. We need to rethink some things related to it. Not only with FPs, but in general. Cheers!
Thank you so much! I think we can get so caught up in the "pretty picture" that social media has us portray that we forget to recognize other feelings we may have.
I appreciate your content because you have always seemed authentic and enthusiastic about the hobby. Thank you so much for talking about this topic, it takes courage to do so. I am experiencing some of your “symptoms” and it is encouraging to know that I am not alone. I have faith that the good intentions that brought us into the hobby will prevail and bring us peace and joy - perhaps even more deeply felt after going through a challenging period. ❤
Thank you so much! I'm glad this was helpful. And I love what you said that we will prevail through the difficult times to make us more appreciative of the hobby after.
This is a great video Karyna. I’m thankful for my non-existent presence on social media. With the exception of UA-cam.
Getting away from social media has really helped with the fountain pen burnout. But honestly and even more importantly it has helped in a lot of other ways.
Your channel and only one other are the two I follow on UA-cam. I have discovered everything I have wanted following you and Anderson Pens.
At one point I felt that I was wanting to like something and it wasn’t happening naturally. Like you said forced. Thankfully I was able to get past that quickly because that most likely would have ended up pushing me out of the hobby permanently.
I may consume more videos or other posts when researching a possible purchase. Simply because if I’m going to spend a few hundred dollars or more on a pen or anything else for that matter I want to do my due diligence.
Nobody needs to have any specific pen, amount of pens, or spent a certain amount to be a part of the community. You are right on point.
Thankfully I have a few close friends who I am able to spend time with in person who enjoy fountain pens. It helps keep the hobby enjoyable. Plus the conversations you and I have had regarding pens, journals, and planners has been incredibly enjoyable.
I really liked this video Karyna. Your willingness to share about your experiences and how you were able to continue to enjoy the hobby and community is amazing.
Thank you so much, Courtney! Social media has its great attributes but it can also have its negative, if consumed in an unhealthy way. I appreciate you watching my channel and taking the time to comment!
I’m like you - I consume more pen reviews when researching a pen. Otherwise, I watch unboxings of people I enjoy watching - not for the pen, but for the person.
You’re so lucky to have a community close by - I met other people here in my city at the Pelikan Hub, but it’s not a regular meet up, unfortunately.
Thanks again for watching, Courtney!
Thank you for your honest video about fountain pen burn out. Helpful for me to understand feelings of burn out in another hobby, it is easy to get overwhelmed by all the content, nice products. Taking a break, questioning myself what attracted me to the hobby at first, helped me
Thank you for sharing what helped you - I did something similar and it was very helpful.
Amazing, amazing video. Thank you so much for articulating a lot of what I have been feeling lately. This has been very eye opening and thought provoking.
Thank you sooooooo much! I'm so glad we're not alone in this!
Great video! I’ve tried so many pens over the years and decided I really want a small collection that represents my favorite brands. I don’t need 10 pens with a Jowo nib. One Vanishing point is sufficient even though I see so many beautiful ones I would like to have. At the end of the day…I want to reduce clutter and focus on pens that I pick up on a regular basis.
I love this! I'm guilty of having multiple pens of the same brand and model (hello Estie!) and my goal, somewhere down the line, is to have my 10-15 best pens. That's it!
Perfect topic and it hasn’t happened to me in pens, but it has definitely happened in other areas. I appreciate your sincere discussion and I know that it is important and it is something we all will experience at some point! Feeling like we are not alone is very important and helpful. Thank you
Thank you so much! I wasn't sure if others would relate but I'm so glad that so many, including yourself, have shared your experience. We are not alone, that's for sure.
Karina, so that you know some of your videos helped me making decisions. I also appreciate your honesty. I hope you recover from burnout whether you stay in this media or out. Good luck.
Thank you sooooo much! It means a lot when these videos are helpful. Take care!
A great video and an important one. As delightful as it is to wake up to one of your videos, and believe me it is a treat, I hope you are getting the time off you need from content creation. I’m in awe of how you and other content creators generously share of your time and your talents. Believe me, it’s appreciated.
Thank you so much! I went through a stage where I was producing 7-8 videos a week (plus coinciding Instagram posts) when I was on The Happy Planner squad and it felt like a job. I lost the joy. I feel like I'm finding my balance, but also the right community! Thank you!
I really enjoyed this video. Thank you so much for sharing.
I too have experienced burnout and it definitely comes after periods of high accumulation, and I too want to sell everything and start over. I just never do. 😂😂
I am really sad when people feel left out because they don’t have this, that, or the other thing. No, you’re part of the community if you have a fountain pen and enjoy it or use it or have questions about it or thoughts and feelings. All you have is a preppy? You’re in! Heck… no, I take that back. you’re part of the community even if you’re just expressing interest in a fountain pen but don’t have one (yet).
Thank you Manda! One thing I have loved about you and your channel is how real you are. And how welcoming you are of everyone! Thank you!
I hit that smash button! I can't really relate to the burn out in the fountain pen hobby... I am still getting my sea legs when it comes to this hobby. I love all the content that I have consumed and I love all the pens that are now in my collection (and inks!) Thank you for sharing your perspective. Know that I really appreciate it.
Thank you, Laura (for the smash!)! Hope this has been helpful, even if early in your fountain pen journey!
This is so helpful, Karyna. I took a break from social media for almost 2 years because of the very things you mention; the pressure of FOMO, comparison, monies spent, fast accumulation, etc. I have way too many planner covers and pens I haven't touched in 2 years. I'm now looking to destash and become more intentional in what I actually use or things I enjoy. I don't know where the best place is to destash pens, but I'm going to begin that process. (Edited: I am watching another of your videos and you mention Virtual Pen Show on IG, so I'll give that a try! Thank you!!) If it helps someone just beginning the journey, that will bring me the joy that I've been missing. Thanks so much for sharing!
It took me time to destash my planners and sticker books but it was such a relief once it was done! And yes to Virtual Pen Show - a great way to reach a lot of people. Good luck!
I've watched a few of your videos and have always enjoyed them, but this is the one that made me subscribe. Thanks for being authentic. I'm still new to the hobby and I'm already trying to figure out ways to limit myself to avoid burn out.
Awesome, thank you! I hope this was helpful in that whatever you're feeling or experiencing, you're probably not alone.
Thanks so much, Karyna. Really appreciate this because I've come to some kind of crossroads, too. I'm on a pen-and-ink-buying moratorium and have also not been watching as many UA-cams, though I really like you all.😅
I totally get it, Pam! We take breaks for our own mental health. And you show support in other ways!
@@KarynaLovesToPlan Karyna, even if I don't watch, if I come across any, I smash the Like.
I love this. I also sometimes feel the FOMO. But thanks for reminding that we should enjoy and cherish the activity not on the things we have. Dont compare, use as inspiration only. If you can affod then you can try for the “experience” ❤
Yes - we all have our own things we like to spend our money on. We all have different circumstances and lifestyles, so we shouldn't compare!
Wonderful video! I think this will help a lot of people.
Thank you! I wasn’t sure if my babbling on would make any sense! 😅
Thank you Karina for sharing your experience with us. I didn’t know it was such a thing. I started following you from the HP Community but now I’m Common planner & Hobonichi. For awhile I didn’t want to purchase custom pens because they started to all look alike. I was trying to use all of my pens at once. So I reduced my currently inked, stayed off social media for a little bit and that helped bring me out of the slump. Now I can enjoy the collection of pens, nibs and inks.
Thanks for sharing!! I'm starting to feel that way about some of the custom pens. And yes, trying to use them all at once - you're spreading yourself too thin. I am definitely more mindful about what social media I am consuming and how much.
I started collecting fountain pens about 6 years ago when I had started contracting and needed a quick way to capture notes in meetings. Every time I completed a big project I decided to treat myself to a new pen as a reward. The way I look at my collection is that it represents certain stages of my work and successes.
I love that! Each one is significant! Was each purchase well thought out before or spontaneous?
@@KarynaLovesToPlan yes I always have a special pen in mind but as time goes on my tastes have also changed I started buying medium nib pens and then moved to broads now I’m heading more towards extra fine nibs.
Buying fountain pens was getting out of hand, because I kept noticing that the pens that I couldn't wait to get were laid to the side while I was buying and experiencing a newer pen. I'm not against trying out new fountain pens because perhaps there is one that is extremely comfortable for the individual's hand/grip. After your video yesterday I calculated the money I saved by not buying the two newest pens that I wanted and now that money can be saved for pens I'm really wanting to try. Definitely going to enjoy the pens I have now and stick with the very short goals list of fountain pens that I want to buy in the future.
I love this! Yes, we want to try and experience new things all the time, but what can get out of hand is the speed in which we do this without considering what we already have. Good for you!
@@KarynaLovesToPlan I agree, too many new pens in such a short time. I'm sure many can handle the amount but I cannot.
I went through burnout as well with a full time creative career I had and had to step back a bit from that.. Now, I'm into creative journaling which has helped me a lot since this is my new outlet of creativity. I am scared I might burnout too with this new found joy of creativity, so I'm trying to be careful not to burnout.. I am taking notes from your experience. Thank you for sharing, Karyna.
Thank you! I'm so glad this was helpful.
Thank you for this video, such honesty and insights. I truly appreciate this in so many ways. I've recently came to some conclusions around my Happy Planner hoard with all the many, many, many sticker books I have. I've switched planners. I stopped but realized as well I need to focus on the things that bring me joy in relationship to my planning. I love this hobby because it's such a HUGE creative outlet in my life. I've been working on pairing down things but only buy what truly makes me happy and to gift others with some of the 'collection'. Thanks again for this video. I really enjoy watching. I love the idea of the fountain pen but just not ready. I know this is okay but I still love watching you swatch your inks and show off your beautiful pens. Keep on doing what brings you joy!
Thank you so much for still following my channel after moving away from The Happy Planner! Yes, part of what moved me away from HP was just the amount of stuff - and it was never ending. No matter how many sticker books we already had, there was always the newest one we had to get.
I appreciate you watching even if fountain pens are not your thing!
Thank you for this episode, you are very relatable! This popped up in my feed and I am glad it did, I subscribed. It is easy to ignore what is really happening, I appreciate authentic and real chats!
Thank you so much! It's one of the reasons I love this community - there are so many who understand and relate to what we're going through!
Thank you for this video❤. I found it very helpful on several levels.
Glad it was helpful!
Really appreciate this video, so thoughtful, so grounding …..within a joyful hobby x
Thank you so much! It is a joyful hobby and we can keep it joyful by recognizing when it can get overwhelming.
Hi, my experience it’s very similar to yours and many people as well.
In my case it’s phasic. I have this phases of buying a lot, being obsessed, then regretting the purchases and wanting to sell it all (burn out), but with different hobbies each time. Retro games, fountain pens, you name it.
In my case it’s closely related with my life satisfaction, when I’m unsatisfied and disengaged with my responsibilities, habits, studies, I tend to focus on obsessive hobbies and the common thing is consumerism, aka buying things.
I don’t really know the cause, but I hope my experience can help you shed some life in your situation.
Someone mentioned that hobbies have phases - the excitement and the obsession and the acquisition and the experimentation. Then, it almost becomes saturation then overwhelm. But you are also right that it ties to how our lives are - for me, this came around tax time and realizing how much tax I have to pay back (and how many pens that costs!).
Thank you for sharing!
@@KarynaLovesToPlanYeah, I understand where you're coming from. I often feel guilty about spending too much money on hobbies, which is why I sometimes find myself in the selling phase.
Video really spoke to me. Long time crafter (project life/December daily) whose hobby developed along side the massive growth of social media. This video was a wake up call for me to get off instagram as the dopamine hit of scoring either a deal or finding something “exclusive” is too strong for me. I was heavily influenced by social media this 12 months into trying a bunch of new expensive hobbies-first crazy washi and sticker hauls, then fountain pens, then crocheting and knitting. Im in the midst of battling an incurable cancer so I just indulged in all the things but recently, I spent nearly 1000 dollars on two pens that I haven’t even inked up because I don’t like how they feel in hand. I think i only bought them because of the limited edition hoopla the creator creates around each fortnightish launch. Each hobby cycle of obsession seems to last about three months for me until I get burnt out. Reminds me of the social media manipulation scenes in the documentary, “The Social Dilemma.”
Thank you so much for sharing your experience. I understand how social media can drive us to find the next big trendy thing. So we (myself included) need to control the content we're taking in to protect our own peace!
Been to the hobby Dec 2023, it’s about how you enjoy the pen and ink and paper and not the price. If you’re happy with cheap brand that is fantastic so be it. Contentment is a gift, as opposed to non stop buying to satisfy an unsatisfiable lust. It’s just a hobby to release some stress if the hobby becomes stressful it’s time for a change. More power to you 🙃
Absolutely - one of the things I've started doing again is transcribing, to give me more reason to use my pens and inks. And yes, journaling and writing does release stress. Thank you!
Since a few months I have gone off the "new pen" videos because they became just uncomfortable and stressful to watch. But I still love new ink videos. It just isn't possible to be buying or having as many pens as youtubers and content creators have and it's really unpleasant after a while. With inks it's different because you can have samples etc. so it's more feasible. I think you're video was really honest and smart and thank you for saying it because sometimes you just have to say no to some content and realize what is good for you.
Absolutely. Control the content you are taking in to help your mental health. I only watch new pen videos of people I like to watch - not for the pen itself, but because I like to hear these specific people get excited about their new pens. It's more about the person than the pen. Thank you for sharing!
Love this and thank you. Agree social media is a double edge sword. I truly think it's more consumerism more so foe me than burnout
Yes - consumerism seems to be what drives these hobbies, for sure.
Hi Karyna, thank you for showing vulnerability and being honest about feeling burnout. It must have been overwhelming for you. I have just started my pen journey and have already been swept up in it too quickly buying 3 pLatinum pens within a month. I get anxious and overwhelmed quite easily so decided that that will do for now and am buying samples of ink as they can get expensive too. I became more minimalist a few years ago and that helped with my anxiety, but it would be even harder being a content creator. Enjoy watching your videos.
Thank you so much! Good for you for recognizing this quickly and for taking a step back. Thank you for sharing!
As the saying goes (and you note well), comparison is the thief of joy! Love your videos.
My motto has recently become. A good pen is a pen you love to write with. A great pen is a pen you love to write with every day. My goal is to get my collection of pens down to collection of good pens and eventually great pens. I think that's the path of contentment. It's not what is "new" or "trendy" it is curating a collection that I love writing with every day. If the next new pen brings that joy and I fall out of love for one then its an even swap. But why keep pens that I don't love? I don't want to accumulate a hoard of pens like a Tolkien dragon. I don't want to have to acclimate to my hoard of stuff. I want the BIlbo life. A few great pens (my pen garden) and a lot of great people! Cheers! ^_^
Thank you for this! I am slowly trying to curate my collection to those I love writing with and love writing with every day. In my job, I don't always write every day so I have to make an effort to use what I have.
And I love the Bilbo reference! Thank you!
As far as burnout is concerned, I fell into the hobby around 2012 and I bought a lot of things and then I got to the point where I felt like I had so much that I was no longer into the new and shiny and went through close to a decade of not buying anything new (pen or ink. I was still hoarding the first iteration of TRP paper and notebooks). Now granted, I write every day because I plan and I journal so I was using my pens...just not consuming during that time. Now (within the last 2 years) I've delved back into the hobby and have been buying the things, but I am feeling as if I'm due for another cycle of just enjoying what I have without anything new.
I have over 80 pens and more than 100 bottles (I'm so close to emptying my first bottle of ink) and I'm getting that urge to just use what I have and enjoy what I have...well outside of that perfect pastel pen I am coveting.
Thank you for sharing your cycle. Someone mentioned that hobbies are cyclical - we have our periods of accumulation, then our periods of just utilization where we step back from acquiring. I think I'm getting into the stage of just enjoying what I have, too!
Thank you for this video! It's what I needed to hear because I feel super alone these days; everyone seems to be enjoying all their stationery and I just want to get rid of everything I have aside from one single notebook and a ballpoint because I am just SO tired. Consumerism, receiving products samples, not creating for myself anymore, not being able to really enjoy pens/inks/paper before new ones come in, not having enough space, comparing myself to others with any kind of talent. And so on and so on. Add life to it (also winter fatigue) and it's not a good mix 😂 I'm stepping down for sure. I might sell of some items eventually when I find some focus. But really, I am going to keep a single notebook and a ballpoint for me - for planning, journaling and whatever. Then a separate notebook for content creation with fountain pens in form of quotes like I used to do before. Hopefully that will help! And I'll take it from there while I shift my mindset to a more healthy one. While I am happy to hear others share their own experience I am sorry to hear you felt this way. So so happy you are in a better place now. Thank you, from the bottom of my heart, for sharing your thoughts and feelings ❤️
Thank you so so so so much for this. And I am so sorry that you are going through this, too. It's something we don't hear about often, in any hobby, as it seems "taboo" in social media to only share the positives. Sending healthy healing vibes!
Thanks for this very insightful chat. I can only imagine how easy it must be for someone to experience burnout when they are also producing content (and pethaps feeling pressure to keep putting our content regularly). I hope the content creators know that when the non-influencers among us experience burnout, we may need to expose ourselves to less video content. For me, burnout is not just about making less purchases, although that is certainly part of it. It also feels like a stepping back from all if it is necessary sometimes -- the ink swatching, the currently inked videos, the unboxings -- it can feel like I'm spending my time AND my money in the wrong way. I have solved this, in part, by really thinking about which content creators I like most and spending my time with them while ignoring the other videos that pop up in my feed. Because as you say, it's ultimately about the people and not the pens. Similarly, I try to spend my hobby time on the activities I enjoy, rather than mindless scrolling. Being mindful of what you're doing and why is the key. Whatever decision works for us at the life stage we're in can be the right one. I actually need to watch myself on inks too, and make sure I'm not just buying inks because they are cheaper than pens and I want to continue to buy something...anything. Or because of FOMO -- if I have a dozen teal inks already, do I really need this new teal ink because everyone is talking about it? Burnout keeps my consumerism in check, and that is a good thing. It is an emotional response that protects me from myself long enough to let my reasoning brain kick in.
So well explained! I watch only certain creators because they feel like friends, rather than someone trying to sell me a product. And when we are mindful of the content we are taking in, it makes us mindful of our own consumerism.
At the end of the day, no matter what content creators produce, we are in control of what we consume and therefore buy. Thank you, as always, Marilyn!
❤ c’est tellement vrai ! La comparaison vole le bonheur ! Je suis en train de traverser cette expérience de burn-out et de frustration permanente ! Merci beaucoup pour cette vidéo 👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽👍🏽❤
Thank you so much (apologies for not responding in French)! Hope you are able to give yourself some rest during the burnout and frustration and you're able to find your way back to the hobby!
I feel this way as well, but to a lesser extent because I don't post much on social media about it (so no pressure for content). But I've accumulated too much still, and have spent too much, while admiring things in other people's collections. I'm trying to reassess now and have sold three pens already this weekend (a lot for me!). I definitely need to stop scouring the Coming Soon sections on websites and focus on enjoying the pens and inks I already have and genuinely love. I'll always want to try new things, I just need to slow it down a little. 😅
Good for you for selling three pens! Another viewer mentioned that she chooses what content to look at and watch, for the purpose of "protecting our peace". If it means turning off notifications or unsubscribing to emails for a while, then do what works for you!
I heard someone say on another video if you’re buying your own pens to have content then you’re doing this wrong. I can’t afford to be trendy or competitive in the race to get these pens so thanks for that!! My guy friend has been buying fountain pens since the late 70s and he has about 50 pens so it’s bewildering to me when people say they’ve been part of this community a few years and they have 90 pens. Great video, it has some valid points
Absolutely agree - I came into this hobby knowing that I didn't want to buy pens just for content. Not hopping on the latest limited edition or new release, and so far, it's been good!
Everyone comes into this hobby differently, with different budgets. And social media and the internet has made information more readily available which makes the pens more readily available, versus in the 70's, you could only go to brick and mortar stores. So acquiring is going to vary now than it did in the 70s. Thank you for watching!
Thank you for this video! I could not agree more with everything you’ve said.
Glad it was helpful!
Being meta about my fountain pen hobby, Pen Royboy spurred an epiphany about it, and summed up in pen, ink, paper, ideas & experiences, and mind. With a good accumulation of pens with various sizes & uses, it has lead me to writing poems during cherry blossom season in the patk, and my last ink purchase of Kon Peki. Commercial burnout is not worth the guilt & shame, and lucky that the eureka moment has me focused on pen experiences. Hope you find your own, and write on.
Thank you for sharing your beautiful experiences. What great memories you'll have - not just the written word on the page, but where you were and what you were writing with on that day. Thank you!
I limit myself to 10 fountain pens and max. 3 different inks. If I really "need" a new pen, I have to figure out which one has to go first. I want to use and enjoy them and 10 is for me already the upper limit to fully appreciate them individually. Also only if I used up one ink I will buy very consciously a new one as it will be with me during my actual writing experience for a considerable time. I set limits to not stumble into the unconscious traps of fomo or acquisition just for owning things instead of really using and enjoying them.
This is amazing! This is so great that this works for you and I'm sure many aspire to this. Thank you for sharing.
You are one of my favourite fountain pen content creators, Karyna. Your videos are always among my priorities to watch when it comes to UA-cam time. But I'd rather you have the enjoyment of the hobby than I have more Karyna videos to watch. Please don't ever feel like you're letting people down if you take a step back from doing unboxings or "buying for content."
I mention this because you mention being "guilty" of producing content about consumption, but I bet you get tons of views on that content. We, your viewers, like it! But I'm in the same boat as you--I watch them because I want to see what Karyna or Simone or Katie or Elyse or whoever think about their new pens, not so much for the new stuff itself. I'd also love to watch content about your pens over time, or a Zentangle With Me, or about your ink paintings, or whatever else you want to do with this space. And if that's nothing, that's okay too. You deserve your hobby spaces to be places for fun, not pressure.
Thank you for this, Sarah! I did go through a time where I felt like I did purchase things just for content, and I recognize that I am in a privileged position to be able to do that. But it's not why I got into the hobby. And thank you for encouraging me to share or not share. There are things I keep private (like painting) because it requires a lot of my energy and filming it may take some joy from that.
Thank you so much for your comment - it means a lot!
I definitely experienced burnout a few months after I started my channel. I felt a lot of pressure to have certain planners and supplies, too. But because I went through that, once I got into FPs I I knew better. I probably will never buy a newly released pen. I don't see the point of it. 99% of the time they go on sale for 25-30% off about a month later. Also, like I said earlier, I'm not trying to prove myself to the FP community. I like what I like and share what I've learned.
Love this! I am like you - I am intrigued by the new releases but I don't need to have every single one of them, just to create content on my channel. We buy what we will love and use! I also love your channel and love what you share!
@@KarynaLovesToPlan ❤️ Thank you!
Thank you!!! I wasn't feeling burnout but I also was really sad about missing on pens. I cannot afford most pens currently but seeing everyone enjoy is fun and little sad. But, I also remember we have resellers so hopefully I will find it again if it's meant to be.
Also smash that button is such a Safiya phrase xD
That's FOMO you speak of. And that is hard - but know that the right pen for you is out there, and if it's meant to be, it will be. It sounds corny but it's true!
@@KarynaLovesToPlan after seeing you get your well loved m800, I knew it exists. You should use it more often, u sound so happy everytime you hold it.
I kinda feel privileged because well... I've never even thought of the concept of fountain pen burnout before, for many reasons. One small reason may be that I've been introduced into the hobby fairly recently. I've only learned about the existence of fountain pens in May 2022, and I've only purchased my first one a month later. That may be a reason but the bigest factor is that... I've been sheltered.
For my whole journey until more recently that I'd like to admit, I was limited to the pen store that I worked at. I only focussed on the brands that we carried, about their quick history, their products, etc... But I never went that far beyond that. It's only since last fall that I've started to expand my knowledge and... Holy Cross there are so many things that I missed!! We don't carry much, and the littlwe we carry are either legacy brands (Sheaffer, Parker, Waterman...) or "luxurious" brands (Caran d'Ache, ST Dupont, Pelikan...). We do carry brands like TWSBI, Lamy, Esterbrook... But outside of the pen community hey're overlooked by our snob customer base that only wants ballpoints corporate gifts... (I'm not saying they're not selling well, our Safaris and Ecos sells by the shovel!). So outside of our regulars, I had little to no contact with the outside world.
That is, until my saviour Karina Palacio (check her instagram @kari.bullet.journal !) came in clutch! She usually does promotion for our pen store and other retailors/distributors/brands, but we became super friends and she finally made me touch grass for the first time. What. A. Revelation. With lots of convincing from her, my boss allowed me to go to Scriptus, the Toronto pen show, and although I was limited to our own table, I had a little break to eat a bit and roam around the show. Kari immediatly took me by the ear and made me buy a vintage pen (Parker Vacuumatic, 1947) and this opened the door to a whole new world
So... You're telling me that I've been missing out on brands like Benu? Leonardo? Aurora? You're telling me that Esterbrooks are actually loved in the community? You're telling me Parker, Cross, and aaall the legacy brands used to make genuine innovations on filling systems and materials? My whole world was turned upside down. I had almost learned everything there was to know about the products we carried, but now I was able to learn not only about other brands, but to RELEARN everything I knew about the ones I carried, on a duration of more than a HUNDRED YEAR!!
Since then, I've been on a bookworm rampage. I learned about pre-WWI Waterman, the different filling systems, what are pens made of, what WERE they made of, different crafting techniques, the nibs!! Architects, UEFs, Obliques, friggin' Sailor nib weilding witchcraft!! And now I want everything lol! I want a Sheaffer Snorkel, I want a Pineider Quill nib, I want a Platinum Coarse, I want a Namiki Maki-E... But I don't take that overwhelming amount of informations as "burnout fuel" if I can say it like that. It's the opposite actually. My nerd-ass know-it-all-ass CRAVES informations! So I just absorb whatever knowledge is laying around
Just 2 weeks ago, I was introduced to another concept by Karina. She invited me to a "mini pen show" organized by Scriven in Montréal Verdun. It was suuuuper small in a café, there was maybe 10 people but... Everyone knew each other!? Don't tell me... It was a COMMUNITY!? There were awesome folks there doing exchanges, showing off their small buisnesses and all. I bought 2 pens there: My first ebonite pen from a guy named Darrin (he makes them himself! Buys the material then shoves a JoWo #6 on them!) and an Esterbrook J (1950s) From Fifteen Pens, my first Oblique!! I won't see them often since they're based in Ottawa, but if they come in town again, I'll be there for sure!
TLDR: Nerd finally touches grass after being sheltered in his cave, Nerds is beyond excited
Thank you for sharing your journey! Each one of us is different and some experience while others do not, and all of that is okay!
Thank you for making this thoughtful video, Karyna. Thank you for creating a space for us to think and share about this topic.
I have always been a hobbyist. Be it scuba diving, cooking, gardening, quilting, indoor plants, planners, pens or ink. Hobbies are a part of me. However, I pay very close attention to my relationship with my hobby. My hobbies tell me when I’m escaping and when I’m not coping well with every day life. They tell me when I’m ignoring my budget. I ask myself, will I feel guilty?” or “why in the world do I feel guilty?” about buying this pen. Do I feel guilty for doing something just for me. Am I “protest planning” in that I’m playing with my stationary because I’m just sick of spreading myself thin. Or, maybe I’m asserting myself and my joy of solitary hobbies.
I think the term you used was just, perfect…..”symptoms of your burnout”. I can be intolerant of the symptoms and just try to eradicate the evidence. Sell everything, organize, give away. Now, after so many years and self acceptance, I simply pay attention and try to be present with my purchases. For me, it’s at the time of purchase when I need to do the gut check. I know my energy and interests enough to say, I will never use that in which case, I won’t buy it. I also know when I’m not sure if I’ll use it, but sense that something will truly inspire me to use it; like watercolor or gouache paint.
For my existing possessions, that served some sort of purpose, be it emotional or functional, if it makes me squirm when I see it, I must bless it, thank it, and let it go.
Thank you so much for sharing your thoughts and feelings about hobbies, and how it can manifest itself. A lot of it is about recognizing and being mindful of how we're feeling or coping with life. I am the same way when I look at my current pens - if I don't feel joy, or something about it makes me cringe or go ick, then I sell!
@@KarynaLovesToPlan thank you for responding and I’m glad you can relate and/or understand. I think you’ve created a safe place for these discussions.
Thank you for this video. I love watching your pen and ink videos. Your voice soothes me. Recently I also came to the conclusion that I have too many pens and I don't write with them every day. I decided to sell or give away a few. I'm at the stage of deciding which ones will become me. I also made a note to myself that I would only buy one pen per year. Maybe it will work :-)
Thank you so much! I love how you said "which pens will become me". What a great way to name your collection!
Hello Karyna, I appreciate your honesty and pointing out the things that can cause a burnout.
I am guilty of „wanting the next big thing“ before enjoying my collection and gladly my budget sets the limit.
For me, the unboxing videos have big value (only if they are honest!!) because I can better evaluate if a pen would be comfortable for me- f.ex. Simone talking about her M800 green demonstrator being just a tad too short and small (grip) brought me to the conclusion, that
this holy grail is not for me. And I crossed it happily from my list.
You’re right that the community grew very fast due to social media, what brings companies to throw out new pens on the market every week.
And I noticed also an increase of prices (of course).
That’s my only „explanation“ for buying classics from my wishlist -like the Lamy 2000 or Pilot capless- now and not waiting for fountain pen day in November.
As for limited editions, I’m overthinking and then they are mostly sold out -so that saves me ☺️
For future I would LOVE to see more „exploring my collection“ from creators.
Just taking a pen and inking with different inks and comparing that f.ex.
Or making the explorations like you did.
It doesn’t have to be only „currently inked“ and „new haul“ videos.
Thank you so much for this. I've heard from other people that "new pen day" can get a little exhausting, but also hard for some creators to keep up with. I agree with exploring what we have is also really interesting.
Yes to the unboxings - I like watching specific creators because they have similar interests to me. Plus, it's like watching a friend open a present.
@@KarynaLovesToPlan thank you for answering. Yes, „new pen day“ can be too much (and boring if it’s too many) and perhaps a better way is a short unboxing and then a really good test (honest first impressions, what changes, what do I love/ what not). You give a lot of information in your unboxing already 😌
And you had a series „one year later“- that was also very interesting and helpful!
I left a comment earlier, maybe it was deleted... Your collection and videos are some in the FP 'community' that I always looked at with admiration. I thought you just enjoyed having a ton of pens!😀
The Fountain pen subreddit has helped me navigate the consumerist bend of the stationery industry. On the FP subreddit so many people share their 5, 6, 7 pen collection and I'm so happy to see people find their 'pen peace'. I have found pen peace but after about 20-something pens (some of them I've gotten rid of over time 😅)
I'm so sorry, Lise! Not sure what happened to your previous comment.
Yes, FP on reddit has been helpful as well. I like seeing everyone's collections - from small to big, and I love learning about what people love and what makes their collections personal to them.
Good for you for finding pen peace! I think I am getting closer to that but not there yet!
Thank you for taking the time to comment not once but twice!
I really appreciated this video! I did not see PenBoyRoy's yet but I will go and watch it. I am not a youtube content creator, just a consumer I guess. But I have been in the FP community for about 2 1/2 years and I am kind of overwhelmed at how many pens I have now and I try to sell them, but I feel like the amount of social media coming at me is on warp speed and I just browse my email and I get the latest and greatest delivered to me on a daily basis. I really feel like I have a wonderful collection, but I honestly don't think I will ever be able to sell them and recoup any money. I did see that Vincenzo from Fountain Pen Therapy was revisiting some old pens that he had not touched in years and that is probably something we all should do with our collections. Revive some of the old neglected pens that we have forgotten about and see why we maybe bought them in the first place. I think I'm going to try that approach instead of buying something new. Also, I am a big vintage pen person. I recently bought a Parker douofold Yellow mandarin barrel and then used parts that I had from a black duofold and created a frankenpen that looks like a bumblebee. It has a vintage flex nib on it too! Doing things like that can be fun and interesting and can make you appreciate the things you have laying around when you can turn them into something unique. I liked seeing your face in this video too! Thank you!
Social media and emails and even Reddit and Discord - they can all contribute to this. I've had to turn notifications and subscriptions off for a time to help with that.
As for selling - I don't do it to necessarily make a profit, or even recoup what I paid. I'll be happy if I can sell it for 80% of what I paid. I'd rather sell than keep anything I'm not using.
What a great way to put parts of a vintage pen together, and what a way to keep it interesting.
Thanks for watching!
Boredom browsing. Oh my word. That is so true.
Yes or what others have called “doom scrolling”!
The expression you were looking for at 15:00 is gatekeeping or maybe people being elitist about the hobby.
That is it, thank you!
I had seen this before. Pen Habit's Matt had called it off 6 years ago. Hope you come out strong.. But i totally get you. UA-cam doesn't pay enough to buy so many pens. Mathematically, its too much to buy new pens every week.
Thank you for this! Most of us UA-camrs do this for fun, and revenue is not enough to buy a pen every week.
I don’t compare myself to others generally but I am just more exposed to more products through social media and email. More of a magpie thing than fomo. But equally harmful in terms of the impact on my wallet and having a comfortable clutter free home.
That is a goal for me, too - clutter brings so much anxiety and stress. Social media has definitely increased our exposure to products and even exposure to social media is overwhelming.
Thank you for this video ❤
You are so welcome!
3 pens used daily is more than enough
Cheers!
This is coming at a great time. My tastes have changed and I have so many pens I want to let go of so I can focus on the ones that do give me joy. I have enjoyed watching you so much. Please keep posting. I would love to see a video on the process of actually selling pens. I know with your store, you would have the ability to produce labels, etc. I would love someone to guide us through the "how to" part from start to finish. I don't understand what the types of payment means and how it works. I've rambled too long. Thanks again.
Thank you, Marjorie! I have been asked to do a "how to sell pens" video. I do need to do a bit of research because I think forms for Canada Post are going to be different than USPS. I'll keep this in mind!
Thanks, that would be so useful. I have about 20-25 pens to destash. Then I will try to follow the one in one out motto. My tastes have evolved so much.
@@KarynaLovesToPlan
Thanks for that.
Thank you! Hope this was helpful.
The yt channel "Not Buying It" published a video about commodity communities, which is a good watch! 100% applicable to the fountain pen "community."
Thanks for the recommendation!
As far as UA-cam reviewers goes, I began watching basic contributers years ago with The Fountain Pen Habit with Matt Armstrong (no longer contributing, alas) so maybe a Burned Out situation there. Over the years I have been made aware of others who have become abruptly or gradually invisible; One Pen Show comes to mind. Ah, the inevitabile grandure of the World as it chews us up and spits us out or consumes us alive, I suppose..... "Alas, poor Yorick. I knew him, Horatio..."
Yes, there have been some UA-camrs or creators that have come and gone, not just in fountain pens but in stationery/planning hobby as well. Burnout led them to completely leave social media and not come back.
Hello karyna I ordered a M600 Blue Ef from amazon but they sent me another pen with a B nib in black colour. How can I confirm if it is 400 or 600 because there is no obvious difference between the two different models. I find your videos very successful. You are cheerful and beautiful. ❤👏🏻
The M400 is smaller than the M600, which is an obvious difference between the two. But if you ordered one thing and received the wrong thing, contact Amazon.
I don't know if the one I have is 400 or 600, so I don't know how to know if it's right or wrong. If you have 2 models, can you please tell me how many cm it comes without cover. I have that ring model and the other pelican right now. The information given on the internet about the dimensions did not seem correct to me. By the way, if you were to choose from the mont blanc series, would you choose the 149 EF or would you go for thin and small models? Thanks for responding quickly to messages, I hope you will be more successful.
@@Thuglifeeeeeeee I do not have both models. I suggest doing a Google search or going to GouletPens website which has all the measurements there. I am not a retailer so I am not the best person to answer your questions. I have never tried a Montblanc and do not plan to, so I cannot answer that either.
When enough people show enough interest in something to make it 'a thing', inevitably hierarchical structure, myths and so on are born. In the FP community there is a strong undercurrent that drives people to spend ever more on pens that don't give much more back to the user, just to 'keep up with the Joneses'. I've spoken about this on a few websites and been roundly shouted down by the longer term members - i.e. those who are often guilty of pushing the myth that FPs make you a better person and so on.
This is what gets me - that there are some people in the community that push the idea that you have to own specific pens in order to be a true fountain pen user. And it's so not true. It's such an elitist stance. We're part of this community if we own even one fountain pen and want to share that love! Thank you for sharing!
@@KarynaLovesToPlan No, thank you. It's brave to raise this subject on social media. This idea of constant 'wants' really erodes the joy we should be getting from appreciating and using what we have.
I truly miss the videos you did with the Happy Planner planners and your coffee chats.
Thanks! I no longer use the Happy Planners as they brought me anxiety and stress rather than joy (as I kind of mention in this video).
Thanks
Great video!! This hobby feeds certain addictive behaviors… more more more! Consumption! But the endorphins soon recede after seeing the next beautiful pen.
The remedy certainly is the concentration on the HOBBY itself: appreciation of writing. The hobby is USING pens, not buying stuff.
By the way, lately, I see the Goulet guys quite critical. They want to sell stuff and feed you every day with disguised advertisements for enticing new stuff…
Okay Evergreen, I thought I was the only one that was skeptical about the G-Men. I have moved on from them. I try to find other vendors because I don't spend alot of money on my purchases is usually ink. And most of my pens are Chinese cheapos which some of them write so well. And with Goulet I will always, always pay for shipping. They seem to carry upper tier on their stuff, and always carry the trendiest. And they hardly have any sales.
Addictive is right. And yes, as soon as we've received the new thing, the endorphins are gone. And you're right, the remedy is to focus on the appreciate of what we have and using what we have. Thank you!
@@KarynaLovesToPlan Thanks for replying to everyone. It is so sweet.
@@tbayless8324 I like Brian and Drew as people. But I hardly ever purchase from Goulet Pens. I did make an ink order from my birthday but before that, I cannot remember the last time I purchased from them!
@@KarynaLovesToPlan I like them too and I understand they need to keep the lights on. I'm still learning.
thanks for sharing
Thank you for watching!
I’ve completed my journey; just bought my holy grail pen and I’m done. But my collection is based on one version of a model that I found appealing. Frankly I don’t understand people who buy Sailors, Twsbis, Lamys, etc in every single color.
You don’t have to understand anyone else’s collection because we are all different. I have six Estie’s because I love how they feel in my hand and how they write. That does not make my collection any better or worse than anyone else’s - it makes it my own.
Good for you for completing your journey!
@@KarynaLovesToPlan I guess it comparable to women who like a certain brand of lipstick so they have to have the same version in a multitude of colors. And that, I am guilty of, l lol.
Haha yes to this! We like what we like!
I love pens. I love inks. But how much is too much? I am ready to part with pens and ink, which, in reality, I will not use. "Stuff" serves no purpose. At this point, I want to write for the pleasure of what I am holding in my hand and the color of ink that suits my eye.
How much is too much is truly a personal thing. Some feel too much is when you're unable to use what you have regularly. For others, that number is different.
I have decided to limit my pen purchases, I realized I do not need one of everything. I want just a few, probably less than 5 or 6, a couple middle of the road pens and I do want a Montblanc fountain pen, I have 4 Montblancs, just no fountain pen. I think MB is the fountain pen all others are judged by. Are they the best, probably not but I do still want one. I know how you feel, I have reached "burn out" with a couple of my other hobbies, I still enjoy them but have scaled way back, both in purchases and participating. For some people social media can be the worst thing that ever came along, it needs to be used wisely.
You are right - we do not need one of everything. Finding what you like and what you will use is a journey. What you like at one stage in your life you may not like later on. And yes, social media needs to be used wisely - curated, like our hobbies!
@@KarynaLovesToPlan I actually have NO social media accounts, I don't need all the negativity from people who do not know me. I have always said social media is a cesspool. talking about tik-tok etc. For me UA-cam has been a great resource for many things. Smart decisions need to be made about what you watch.