Reclaiming your creativity

I have some very talented friends who admit they haven't done much creatively since the pandemic began. Not willingly, mind you. It's just that being holed up isn't exactly the greatest environment for everyone to create. I myself thrive off new experiences and meeting new people. I didn't even realize it, but that energy has always been a big part of what's inspired me. More time to do something doesn't always translate into doing more.

Much has been said about being kind to yourself and cutting yourself some slack (rightfully so), but less about how to find your rhythm again. So if you're longing for the way you used to create, dial back your expectations. Focus on falling back in love with the flow. One of the best ways is to dismiss expectations where every creative pursuit has to earn money. If you're in a rut, pick an activity where that isn't the end goal. Despite what some capitalist entrepreneurs may insist, creating for creativity's sake (and your enjoyment) is perfectly valid. You don't always have to be selling something.

Your job may currently rely on creativity, but it's still worth making time for something else that makes you feel excellent — drawing, picking up an instrument, editing photos, or dabbling in a new craft. It doesn't have to be for a long time either. Start with 15 minutes. Watch these sessions grow as you find yourself in a flow.

While you may encounter resistance, you'll be glad you got started. Notice how it makes you feel. Maybe it's not universal, but I feel amazing when I'm learning, making, and doing — no matter how imperfect the outcome is. It's about enjoying yourself.

So if the last 14 months have been less than stellar, remember that now's a great time to get back in touch with creating. You won't be alone and it's going to bring back a vibrancy to your life, even if it's just in 15-minute spurts.