Do you ever feel like creativity is fleeting and only happens when inspiration strikes? Well, as someone who’s navigating through life with a neurodivergent brain, as a parent, and as a caregiver of a family with special needs, I’ve learned that creative practice is more than just a moment of inspiration – it’s a necessity for my health. I need to bring regular creativity back into my life.
I’ve learned that to bring creative practice back to my work/life balance, I must show up and put in consistent effort, explore new things, have new experiences, and understand my pace. And let me tell you, it can be challenging to find the time or energy for my own creative pursuits. Between being a parent and a caregiver, I know how quickly the weeks can slip by without me stepping foot in my studio and being creative intentionally. Luckily, my laptop and iPad make it easy to do the work part of my life on the go.
Making Showing Up a Habit
However, I found that every time I managed to be in my creative space, I was filled with energy and fulfillment. It’s like stepping into a different realm where time and worries momentarily pause, and I can breathe. It doesn’t have to be long; even a few minutes can spark a change in perspective. (although I would love for it to be longer!) The key is to transform it into a habit – as regular as morning coffee. Maybe with my morning coffee? That sounds fantastic.
Venturing Beyond Comfort Zones
I’m also always looking for ways to challenge myself and step beyond my comfort zone, whether trying out a new art medium or exploring new technology. It’s benefited me, even bringing on a 20-year career in the past! I want to bring this to my personal work as well.
Some ways I will do this:
- Exploring New Tech: I’m always intrigued by learning a new coding language or experimenting with a robot (what I call my army of 3D printers, printers, cutting, sewing, and laser machines) or tool. It’s not just about the skill but about the process of learning something completely different that can spark creativity for me.
- Child-like artistic play: Whether it’s a new art supply or a sketchbook exercise, experimenting with a new medium can open up new ideas. I have so many art supplies that I haven’t picked up yet because I thought I didn’t have a project for them yet! But I can pop open a sketchbook and play without a plan like I did as a kid.
- Looking for inspiration: I could leave the house (yikes, I am such a homebody) and visit a local maker space or pick up a hobby that’s always piqued my interest but I have yet to try. My bookshelf has a stack of books that are a treasure trove of ideas. Documentaries, workshops, or online classes can spark a thought that might grow into something beautiful. I LOVE watching movies and stories of all kinds…
- Share on Social Media: When I work, I use my skills to help other people bring their creative visions to life. I have no problem sharing this work because it doesn’t feel as vulnerable as sharing my personal creative work. I want to share more of ‘my’ artwork to find my tribe and inspire, even though it scares the heck out of me.
Setting Realistic Goals
But as a perfectionist, I know how easy it is to set the bar too high and feel overwhelmed. So, it’s crucial for me to set realistic goals and recognize small wins along the way.
And rest? Well, that’s a crucial part of the process, too.
If you want to bring more creativity into your life, I hope my experiences inspire you to embrace and share your creative journey, too. Let’s support each other and create something beautiful together!
Thanks for reading, and remember to follow me for more!
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