keeping creativity alive
As one does before the new year, I made a list of realistic resolutions. That list was quickly scrapped when I stumbled upon old journal entries.
Every year, for the past 5 years, I gave myself the same goals: be more creative - read more books, start drawing again, finish my scrapbooks, the list goes on.
So this year I want to hold myself to a higher standard.
I am happier, more energetic and feel more at home when I create. I've often stopped myself from even trying because I don't want to fail.
But creativity must be acted upon, otherwise the spark will die. And because creativity has an expiration date, I worry one day if I keep pushing and pushing my ideas away because I'm either too busy or not confident, my creative will won't return.
So, these are the small ways I've tried to stay in this headspace:
⭐ new years resolution punch cards - giving myself some incentives to reach my goals! the bonus was making these with my little one!
⭐ journaling intentionally and consistently
⭐ decluttering my workspaces (whether that's my craft box, scrap papers or my kids' art supply bins)
⭐ creating a personal website and relearning HTML!
⭐ collecting and creating stamps out of scrap papers I've collected over the years
⭐ slowing down and enjoying life
⭐ creating a cozy space to work, read, write and create
From my own experience, keeping creativity alive isn’t just about grand projects but about consistent, small actions that nurture the creative spark daily. One powerful method I've found is using a visual progress tracker, like the "new year's resolution punch cards" mentioned, which turns goal-setting into a more tangible and rewarding process. Working on these with family, especially children, not only motivates but also strengthens bonds and creativity across generations. I also realized the importance of intentional journaling—writing down reflections, ideas, and even obstacles to creativity helps me understand my creative cycle better and keeps me accountable. Making time for this practice, even for five minutes a day, can shift how you engage with your creative goals. Another game changer is decluttering your workspace, which I can attest to from my own craft area. A tidy space reduces mental noise and invites focus, enabling me to enjoy my creative endeavors without the stress of searching for tools or scraps. This extends to digital decluttering too, like organizing files or bookmarks relevant to creative inspirations. Relearning skills, such as HTML in the creation of a personal website, has opened up new creative channels for me. It serves as a reminder that expanding one’s skill set can refresh creative energy by combining old passions with new knowledge. Collecting and repurposing scraps into personalized stamps is a fun, eco-friendly way to embrace creativity while also preserving memories tied to the materials. It’s a tactile, rewarding activity that slows down the process and makes creativity a form of mindfulness. Finally, creating a cozy, inviting space is essential. It’s the environment that often dictates our mood and willingness to engage with creative projects. Soft lighting, favorite books, and comfortable seating transform a corner of your home into a sanctuary for imagination and productivity. Embracing these habits with patience and kindness towards yourself will keep your creative will alive and thriving even when life gets busy or confidence wanes. Creativity truly needs nurturing, and with intentional actions, it can become a joyful and lasting part of daily life.