In a world obsessed with hustle culture and productivity, taking time to create can feel like a guilty pleasure. But here’s the truth: creativity isn’t a privilege it’s a vital part of living a happy, meaningful life.
Think about it: when was the last time you let yourself get lost in something creative? Maybe you've been thinking about getting back into an old hobby or starting a new one. Whether it’s painting, writing, baking, crafting, or even gardening creative expression is good for the soul.
A Simple Story That Says It All
I recently met a woman at a nearby market who made lovely wreaths using dried flowers and vines. She wasn’t chasing fame or fortune. She told me, “It was just me, the flowers, and my glue gun.” She started creating just to lift her spirits during the long, grey winter and yet, her work drew people in. It made them feel something.
That’s the magic of creativity. It doesn't need to be perfect or profitable. It just needs to be real.
The Science Backs It Up
Research shows that creative activities improve our mental health. When we’re creating, we often enter a state of flow a calming, focused zone where time disappears. This can lead to greater self-confidence, lower stress, and even a deeper sense of purpose.
Studies also show that creative practices can help us feel more in control, especially in uncertain times. In short, creativity boosts emotional well-being and helps us reconnect with ourselves and the world around us.
But Why Do We Still Avoid It?
Let’s be honest there are a million reasons we avoid creative work:
- “I don’t have time.”
- “I’m not talented.”
- “What if people laugh at me?”
- “It won’t be good enough.”
Sound familiar?
You’re not alone. These doubts are common, but they don’t have to stop you. Plenty of people artists, musicians, even therapists have struggled with these exact fears. But they kept going. You can too.
Here’s How to Reclaim Your Creative Side
1. Give Yourself Permission to Create
Forget the idea that creativity is only for the “gifted” or when everything else is done. Our ancestors have been creating for tens of thousands of years. It’s in our DNA. Even if what you create doesn’t have a clear purpose, it still matters if it makes you happy.
As author Elizabeth Gilbert puts it, your creation can simply be a “souvenir from a transcendent time.” That’s enough.
2. Make Peace with Fear
Feeling scared to try something new? That’s normal. But fear doesn’t have to stop you. Bring it with you. Be gentle with yourself. Create messy things. Make mistakes. That’s how growth happens.
Think about how you’d treat a child drawing for the first time. You wouldn’t criticize them you’d cheer them on. Try giving yourself the same grace.
3. Build a Simple Routine
Creativity needs space to grow. Don’t wait for inspiration schedule time for it. Even 20 minutes a couple of times a week can make a difference. Add it to your calendar like you would any other priority.
Remember: you don’t need hours, you just need a habit.
4. Follow Your Curiosity
You don’t need a big idea to start. Let curiosity lead the way. Pay attention to what catches your eye a color, a sound, a word. Let yourself explore without pressure.
I once watched a child turn a simple square into an alien, just by wondering, “What does this remind me of?” That’s the kind of open curiosity that fuels creativity.
Start Small, Start Now
You don’t need fancy tools or endless time. Sometimes, all it takes is a bit of bravery and the desire to give something a shot. Let go of perfection. Embrace play. Start with what you have.
Creativity isn’t a side hustle it’s self-care. It connects you to joy, to meaning, and to others. Right now, we could all use a little more joy in our lives.
So pick up that pen, that brush, that camera whatever calls to you and begin.