2025 Let's Survive & Thrive Checklist For Artists and Creators
This checklist was born from clarity, not fear. It's a guide for artists and creators who want to stay grounded, prepared, and creatively sovereign in the years ahead. From your pantry to Procreate, this list covers it all.
That said, there are probably a few things that could be added, feel free to share with me if you think more could be included. Email Meagan
Pantry (Food Essentials) [ ] 3-month supply of dry goods (rice, beans, oats, pasta, flour) [ ] Canned proteins (sardines, tuna, chicken, beans) [ ] Shelf-stable vegetables and fruits (canned, dried, vacuum-sealed) [ ] Cooking oils (olive, coconut, tallow) [ ] Salt, pepper, and key spices [ ] Shelf-stable nut milks or UHT dairy [ ] Coffee, tea, herbal infusions [ ] Raw honey or shelf-stable sweeteners [ ] Dark Chocolate [ ] Bone broth or powdered broth [ ] Fermented foods (shelf-stable pickles, sauerkraut) [ ] Water (3-week minimum supply or filtration system) [ ] Multivitamins and supplements
Digital & Creative Sovereignty [ ] Own your domain name and maintain control of your website [ ] Create regular backups of your website (download content, pages, blog posts) [ ] Save high-resolution versions of your art and important materials offline [ ] Keep a secure, exportable copy of your mailing list (CSV or spreadsheet) [ ] Diversify your communication channels (email, YouTube, blog — not just Instagram) [ ] Store backup copies of your digital products (PDFs, videos, workbooks) [ ] Use platforms that allow full ownership (avoid ones that limit access or export) [ ] Keep track of passwords and logins in a password manager [ ] Document your methods, frameworks, or classes for legacy or licensing [ ] Review platform terms of service regularly to avoid surprise restrictions
Office (Technology & Banking) [ ] Backup laptop or iPad [ ] External hard drive with backups [ ] Surge protector and backup power bank [ ] Password manager set up and secure [ ] 2FA (two-factor authentication) enabled on all accounts [ ] Offline backups of vital documents (USB or paper) [ ] Alternative banking access (credit union, local accounts) [ ] Zelle/Venmo/PayPal active and secure [ ] Printed copies of essential banking info [ ] List of emergency contacts (printed and digital)
Storage Closet (Backup Supplies) [ ] Candles and lanterns (with fuel or batteries) [ ] Transistor radio [ ] Flashlights and extra batteries [ ] Portable water filtration system (e.g. LifeStraw, Berkey) [ ] Solar phone charger [ ] Basic toolkit (hammer, screwdrivers, duct tape, multi-tool) [ ] Emergency food stash (freeze-dried meals, protein bars) [ ] Blankets, tarps, emergency bivy [ ] Portable cooking method (camp stove, fuel canisters) [ ] First aid kit and backup meds [ ] Face masks, gloves, hygiene items
Bathroom [ ] Paper, tissues, feminine hygiene products [ ] Hand soap, shampoo, conditioner [ ] Baking soda and white vinegar (multi-use cleaners) [ ] Toothpaste, floss, toothbrush backups [ ] Essential oils for antiseptic and calm (tea tree, lavender) [ ] Epsom salts, magnesium spray [ ] Cloth towels and reusable wipes
Kitchen (Tools & Supplies) [ ] Travel Wine Opener [ ] Manual can opener [ ] Cast iron pan or heavy-duty cookware [ ] Wooden cutting boards and quality knives [ ] Reusable food storage (glass jars, beeswax wrap) [ ] Dish soap and sponges [ ] Compost bin or plan for food waste [ ] Fire extinguisher [ ] Stocked spice rack and vinegar selection
Pets (Companions & Care) [ ] At least 1-month supply of food (kibble, canned, or raw) [ ] Extra water and travel bowl [ ] Leash, harness, and spare collar [ ] Comfort items (toy, blanket, calming spray) [ ] Flea/tick/parasite medications [ ] Vaccination and vet records (paper and digital copies) [ ] Pet first aid kit [ ] Portable crate or carrier [ ] Backup ID tags or microchip info [ ] Plan for emergency relocation with pet
Sanity & Spirit [ ] Sketchbook and drawing tools [ ] Favorite books (paperback or printed PDFs) [ ] Journal and pens [ ] Offline music or playlist downloads [ ] Procreate on your iPad and/or Pocket Procreate on your iPhone [ ] Breathwork or meditation guide [ ] Sacred items (altar objects, tarot deck, stones) [ ] Comfort ritual: tea, incense, candle [ ] Handwritten letters from or to loved ones [ ] Gardening or creative hobby supplies [ ] Walking shoes and access to fresh air [ ] Favorite drawing pens or tools (with backups) [ ] Portable sketch kit or travel journal [ ] Printed reference photos or prompt packs [ ] Archival ink or waterproof materials [ ] Gelli plate or printmaking tools [ ] Pocket watercolor set [ ] Ritual or motto card taped above workspace [ ] Printed quote or image that makes you feel brave [ ] Pack of good dark chocolate (non-negotiable)
Go Easy On Yourself Go Easy On Others, Meagan Burns
Meagan Burns is an artist, instructor, and founder of Art Leap Adventures, where she empowers creatives to push boundaries and explore new tools and techniques in their artistic journeys. Based in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico, Meagan has spent years teaching fluid, expressive continuous line drawing and now brings that same curiosity and adaptability to the world of AI. In her new ChatGPT workshops, Meagan helps artists, freelancers, and curious minds demystify AI technology, showing how tools like ChatGPT can spark creativity, streamline workflows, and expand possibilities. With a focus on hands-on learning and a welcoming approach, she encourages participants to embrace new technologies with confidence, creativity, and an open mind.
Looking for an Advanced Continuous Line Drawing Class?
Register below for full access, and you’ll receive a link to our Zoom Room to start drawing with Meagan on Mondays and Thursdays. Experience the magic of continuous line drawing with a community of supportive artists and take your sketching skills to new heights.
$75 Live Zoom Drawing Sessions Mondays and Thursdays 8:30 am Pacific 9:30 am Mountain 10:30 am Central, San Miguel de Allende 11:30 am Eastern Recordings will be emailed each afternoon after class Recordings available for two months Participation in Private Facebook Group