Keeping creativity

Tips for staying creative when life is busy

It’s that time of year. The demands of work, home life, friends and family in the lead up to the silly season can feel all-consuming and anything but festive. It’s important to slow down, practise self-care, and do things for you. One of the best ways to nurture yourself is embracing your creativity. Here are 10 ways to mindfully manifest your creative streak.

  1. Out and about

People-watching can be a great inspiration, an eye-catching billboard could feed into your novels, someone else’s clothes could prompt your next fashion design or the view outside the train on your morning commute could be a future painting. Being present in the moment helps you to see future possibilities.

  1. Take a walk

There’s nothing more grounding than taking a moment to reconnect with nature. Whether it’s a five-minute lap around the block or a one-hour trek through your favourite trail, your creative mind – as well as your body – will thank you for it.

  1. Take a class

Many community colleges offer short courses at affordable prices. From pottery to photography, you’ll surely find something that piques your interest, plus you’ll meet like-minded friends to share ideas with.

  1. Break routine

Does your regular nightly routine include dinner by the TV, dishes, and packing the school lunches? Break the monotony and try something new, whether it’s attempting a new recipe or dining out, relinquish control and feel the ingenuity flow.

  1. Good morning

Sleep ins can be heaven, especially when life is a little chaotic. But why not set your alarm clock early this weekend, get up before everyone else and enjoy some quiet time with your art? You may find you achieve more than you expect.

  1. Culture vulture

Seek innovation from your mentors and those that inspire you. Visit an art gallery, unearth your inner Shakespeare, or tune into a podcast you wouldn’t usually listen to, even if it’s only for a few minutes.

  1. Social skills

Meeting friends? Instead of heading to a café, why not use this as an opportunity to be more creative? Start a knitting circle, a writing group or a book club and share your art with your friends.

  1. Dream catcher

Some of the greatest works of art came to their authors fully formed in dreams, like Samuel Taylor Coleridge’s poem Kubla Khan. Keep a notebook by your pillow to write down any inspiration that strikes while you’re sleeping.

  1. Meditation station

When it feels like everyday worries and chores are stifling your creativity, take time out to clear your mind. Find a quiet place where you won’t be disturbed and spend five, 10 or 20 minutes focusing on your breathing and allowing thoughts to come and go without overwhelming you. It could be the mental break that gets you unblocked.

  1. It’s a way of life

If your nine to five is really stopping you pursuing your dreams, could you change your current circumstance to give your art greater priority? Can you make an income from your creativity, or could you cut down on household costs so you can work fewer hours and devote more time to your passion?

This article was originally published in Issue 9 – Live for the moment


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