First published: October 2021
Many experts explain advantage Daily creativity. This has always puzzled me a little. I used to think of creativity as an emotion or state of mind that magically appeared, a spontaneous inspiration worth grasping for. Over time, creativity is actually practiceflex your creative muscles every day —especially It’s important to make it a habit when you don’t feel like it.
Lately, I’ve started taking just one day off every week. For myself (which is clearly a privilege and one I don’t take for granted). Through these daily breaks, I realized something about my relationship with creativity. Even though we love being creative, we often deny ourselves the time to engage in creative practices. As a way to avoid them, try scrolling on your phone. The more I ask myself why I need creativity and The reason I avoid it is because it makes it easier to dive into creative practice more easily.
Today’s post is about making it easy to start your own creative practice, no matter your headspace that day (because as I know from much personal experience, getting started is usually the hardest part). Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed, depressed, or just a little distracted, these short exercises will help you flex your creative muscles in a soothing, inspiring, and, best of all, easy way.
When you want to explode with creativity but don’t know how to get into that mindset, these are some of my favorite tips to help you get started.
Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed, depressed, or just a little distracted, these short exercises will help you flex your creative muscles in a soothing, inspiring, and, best of all, easy way.
Before we begin, let’s get into the right headspace.
I like to start by finding a quiet, comfortable place and connecting with my body for a minute or two. Ask yourself what you are feeling in this moment and listen to the first answer that comes to mind.
Do you feel stuck inside your body? Are you feeling enthusiastic and mobilized? Are you feeling lethargic and depressed? All of these associations in the body are clues to what you need.
1. When you feel restless…
…Try dancing for a few minutes (or 30 minutes!) at home.
Or do whatever movement your body desires. Sometimes your body simply needs some form of release, and the point of this exercise is to make creative movements, no matter what it is. What is your favorite song to dance to? “Don’t Start Now” by Dua Lipa.
2. If you feel bored or distracted…
…Try doodling.
Buy a notebook specifically for doodling and make it your go-to notebook. Get a pen you really like, grab it my notebookThen give yourself one goal. It’s about filling the page.
You can draw images, objects, or write words that come to mind. I do the latter with a free writing diary. I found that diary rear This process tends to feel really good because the words that pop up often create interesting associations and inspire your writing.
3. When I’m excited…
…Try filling the page with cursive.
Sometimes, when I’m feeling crazy, instead of meditating (don’t get me wrong, it’s beneficial in its own right!), I like to write in cursive with my favorite fountain pen. You can write simple phrases or sentences, or even simple affirmations if you like (e.g. “Slowing down is good for you”).
This process is about concentrating on your calligraphy and the flow of the pen on the paper. I tend to think it’s really calming.
4. If you’re feeling down…
…Try drawing a picture.
Painting is a really great form of expression, and drawing something in bright colors can help create something really fun. It is not about the execution or the finished product, but rather about existing with the brush, paint, and paper. What does it feel like to move colors across a page?
5. When you feel overwhelmed…
…Let’s try cooking.
When I’m feeling overwhelmed, cooking (or even just reading a cookbook) can help me feel better. This prompt may not work for everyone, but I find it very relaxing.
It’s as easy as topping an open-faced sandwich with fresh herbs and a little olive oil and serving it on a clean plate. Alternatively, you can open a copy of: Master the art of French cooking Then we spend the afternoon cooking a feast. Ask which approach feels most comfortable to you.
6. If you have low self-esteem…
…Try getting creative with your wardrobe.
When I’m feeling like this, I sometimes go through my closet and intentionally get rid of things that don’t make me feel good. From there, I often find it fun to put together a creative outfit or two that makes me feel good. Finding new ways to create outfits with items that you feel great about can really make you feel good. It can be as simple as pairing your favorite dress with boots instead of flats, or wrapping a scarf around your neck, hair, or handbag.
7. If you feel trapped…
…Would you like to make a flower arrangement?
I love going outside and cutting out flowers and greenery and arranging them on a whim. (If you don’t have a backyard, head to your local Trader Joe’s!) You don’t need big, beautiful flowers to make interesting arrangements. Touch the leaves, smell them, and choose the ones that interest you. Place it in a vase that will make you smile. Take your time with the placement and let nature do most of the design work.
8. If you feel stuck…
…try styling your shelves (or rearranging the furniture in your room!).
I love rearranging a corner of a small room (or a large room) to freshen up the surrounding environment. Focusing your energy on a different task than the one that’s keeping you stuck, like shelving your books or rearranging your furniture, can help you feel unstuck.
Remember: It’s not important to be rigid in your creative practice. It’s simply about honoring and following through on what you know is needed in a given moment.
Everyone, please enjoy your creation.
Kate is the founder of Wit & Delight. She is currently learning how to play tennis and is constantly testing the limits of her creativity. Follow her on Instagram @witanddelight_.
Source: – witanddelight.com
