Why Creativity Is a Form of Self-Care (And Why We Often Put It Last)
I’ve been reflecting on how many of us struggle with our relationship with creativity. We want to create. We’ve enjoyed it in the past and often say we value it as part of our lives. Yet, we struggle to prioritize it.
There are many reasons why this could be, but one stands out to me: Creativity as a form of self-care.
When we engage in creative acts, we give ourselves an outlet to express thoughts and feelings that we may not be able to articulate otherwise. Whether it’s through painting, writing, or any other creative outlet, we like the way it makes us feel—even when the result isn’t perfect. Yet, when creativity is approached as self-care, it often falls into the same trap as other self-care activities: we place it in the “should” category and shame ourselves when we don’t follow through. Our good intentions remain just that, and we never carve out the time.
The Overwhelmed Caretaker
Take, for example, the woman who juggles a career, household responsibilities, and possibly even caregiving. She knows creativity brings her joy—whether it’s journaling or crafting—but it’s always the first thing to go when time gets tight. She might say, “I’ll get to it when everything else is done,” but everything else is never done. Creativity becomes just another to-do on an already overwhelming list, and when it’s framed this way, it feels like more work rather than the act of self-care it truly is.
This isn’t just anecdotal. Research shows that women, in particular, often feel guilt when taking time for themselves, which can lead to burnout and a lack of personal fulfillment. According to the American Psychological Association, 70% of women report feeling overwhelmed by their responsibilities, leaving little time for self-care activities like creative hobbies.
The Hustle Trap
Now let’s think about the entrepreneur or career-driven individual. This person may set aside time for creativity, but only if it serves a business goal. Their art becomes part of their "brand" or business growth strategy. Over time, the joy they once experienced from creativity may diminish as it becomes solely about achieving external results.
This happens a lot in hustle culture. A study from Harvard Business Review explains how turning a passion into work can strip the joy from those activities, leading to burnout and creative exhaustionSources: (Harvard Business School)(Harvard Business School).
While it might seem productive to transform your creativity into a side hustle or a content machine, this often removes the pure joy and curiosity that creative play can bring. When we only create for external validation or monetization, creativity shifts from self-care to yet another obligation, another item on the to-do list.
Managing Your Passion for Longevity
The truth is, creativity in its purest form should be an act of self-care. It’s not about the end result but the process of engaging with your own thoughts, emotions, and imagination. However, if we never prioritize this for ourselves—whether it’s because we’re busy caring for others or because we’re trying to produce results—we miss out on the deep restorative power creativity offers.
Writer Elizabeth Gilbert talks about this in Big Magic, suggesting that creative living isn’t about productivity, but about “choosing curiosity over fear.” It’s about giving yourself permission to create for the sake of creating, rather than for an audience or an outcome. This perspective allows creativity to become a tool for self-exploration and joy, not just something that delivers results.
Putting Creativity Back into Self-Care
If you’re wired for practicality and responsibility, it’s tempting to put everything—and everyone—else first. But if you don’t make time for creativity, you might end up feeling disconnected and burned out. It’s time to reframe how we see creative acts: not as a luxury, but as a necessity for mental and emotional well-being.
What would happen if you gave yourself permission to create without the pressure of a perfect outcome? If you took even 10 minutes a day to write, doodle, or play an instrument—just for you, not for Instagram or a portfolio? Imagine how much lighter, more refreshed, and more connected to yourself you might feel.
Reclaiming creativity as a form of self-care means shifting your perspective on what it’s for. It’s not a task to be completed, and it’s not always about the result. Creativity, at its best, is a way to care for your inner world, to let your imagination play, and to express parts of yourself that might otherwise go unnoticed. It’s time to stop putting your creativity last and start making it part of your self-care practice.
What have your experiences been in regards to creativity as a form of self-care?
How Do You Know If You Are Creatively Successful?
I had a conversation with some friends recently that’s been lingering.
The gist? What does success look like for creativity? What if you get to the end of your life and you’ve never “made it”?
According to a 2012 Adobe study, 25% of people believe they are living up to their creative potential. No wonder that question stings a bit.
I remember that when I was younger, I just wanted to create, and get paid for it. That’s it. Enjoy the work I do and get paid for it.
I went to art school and graduated with a degree in graphic design, and upon graduation hit the pavement seeking employment.
I never stopped to think about what success looked like (beyond employment) or what I really wanted. The resulting years were one of seeking someone else to define those things for me, and a frustration that would rear its ugly head every few years resulting in a job change.
Creativity is a muscle, and a tool. But we still have to tie it to goals, desires and dreams.
But here’s a hard truth…
Creative success will remain elusive as long as we’ve left what success looks like undefined. Or maybe worse, we’ll attain it to find out it was the wrong success.
Do you know what creative success (beyond projects) looks like for you?
Maybe you’ve defined it as “making a living from your creativity”.
Or having a regular creative practice just for yourself.
Or developing a body of work in a certain creative discipline.
Or becoming a famous artist.
While there are no wrong answers, I would challenge you with this: be as specific as possible.
Want to make money from your creativity? Great. How much? Put a number to it so you can measure, and if need be, adjust or change tactics.
If things are vague or a constant moving target, we’ll never know if we’re on track. We might just get discouraged and quit, while an examination of our expectations is in order.
Both Seth Godin and James Clear have mentioned falling in love with the process more than the outcome. The process keeps us in the game. The process is easier to detach from our identity. That’s what “Daily Creative Habit” is, a process you apply to your own creative modalities.
James says:
“When you fall in love with the process rather than the product, you don’t have to wait to give yourself permission to be happy. You can be satisfied anytime your system is running. And a system can be successful in many different forms, not just the one you first envision.”
And under all the work, chasing opportunities and accolades, isn’t that what we really really want? To be …happy?
Creativity and success is a life long pursuit. The definition you have of success today may change tomorrow. And that’s ok. Just know what it is.
Know how to keep yourself in the game. And in such a way that you don’t attach and identify yourself with someone only the struggle.
That’s why I talk about celebrating your wins and making fun a habit. It’s creating new biases and neural pathways that reach for positivity rather than negativity.
And while it’s cliche at this point, creative success is really about the journey, not the destination.
So can I ask you?
What does creative success look like for you? If there was one part of this I could help you with, what would it be?
Art Happens... Here
I stumbled upon this really inspirational show called "Art Happens Here with John Lithgow" (Check out the trailer here).
Picture this: John Lithgow (yeah, the dude from 3rd Rock From the Sun and a gazillion other things) willingly subjects himself to the horrors and joys of going back to school.
And what's the catch? He's there to prove a point about the magic of arts education. From dance to ceramics, silk-screen printing to vocal jazz ensemble, Lithgow dives headfirst into it all, showcasing how creativity can be the ultimate life hack
In his own words, Lithgow states:
"The arts give young people all sorts of tools to move on in life, even in the other areas of academia...They teach them discipline and hard work and patience and collaboration and cooperation and civility. They give young people an early sense of empathy....Hi everybody I'm John Lithgow. Come along and watch me go back to school. Printmaking, ceramics, vocal jazz ensemble, and dance. And celebrate arts in education with a bunch of incredible kids. It's called Art Happens Here."
Now, let's talk about you…
You are never too old to learn or grow. (and I'm not just saying that because I keep getting older...)
It's easy to get stagnant. Complacent. Comfortable.
When was the last time you tried something new? Perhaps something you really suck at? (we don't like that part. We want to be immediately great out of the gate!)
But hey, that's where the magic happens. It's about breaking through those self-imposed ceilings and embracing the chaos of learning something new. (yes, messy)
So, here's the challenge: sign up for a class in a completely alien (yes, a nice call back to 3rd Rock show.. wink, wink) creative discipline. Watch how it shakes up your world, how it breathes new life into your tired routine. And if you're feeling a bit lonely on this journey, fear not! Join us at the Daily Creative Habit Membership for some much-needed company.
In the end, just remember: age is just a number, and learning is a lifelong adventure.
Whatever you do, just be sure to never stop learning and growing. Your creativity depends on it!
Multiliner Pens and Watercolor: The Perfect Combination for On-The-Go Artists
Most of the visual art I create these days is digital, using my trusty iPad.
But every so often I love to return to some tactile roots and grab my sketchbook, Multiliner pens and travel watercolor kit. There’s nothing like setting up on location to capture some sights and experiences that are playing out right before you. It’s a great way to remember moments, special or ordinary.
If you’re new to the sketch scene, or returning after some time away, here are some pointers to help you navigate your sketch opportunity!
Multiliner pens are a versatile tool that can be used for a variety of drawing techniques. They are especially well-suited for drawing on the spot, as they allow you to create precise lines and details. If you want to add a touch of color to your drawings, you can also use watercolor. (That really makes your sketches sing!)
Here is a step-by-step guide on how to combine multiliner pens and watercolor:
Choose your subject. This could be anything from a landscape to a portrait to a still life.
Sketch your subject using a multiliner pen. Use light lines so that you can easily adjust them later if needed.
Add details to your sketch using a thicker multiliner pen.
If you want to add color, dilute some watercolor paint with water.
Use a brush to apply the watercolor to your drawing. Start with light washes and build up the color gradually.
Let the watercolor dry completely.
Need some tips for combining multiliner pens and watercolor?
Use a high-quality watercolor paper. This will help to prevent the watercolor from bleeding through the paper.
Be careful not to overwork the watercolor. Too much water can make the paper buckle.
If you make a mistake, you can erase the watercolor while it is still wet.
Experiment with different colors and techniques to find what works best for you.
Combining multiliner pens and watercolor is a great way to create detailed and colorful drawings. With a little practice, you can learn to create beautiful and unique artwork.
Here are a few additional tips to help you succeed:
Use a light touch when sketching with the multiliner pen. You can always add more lines later, but it is difficult to erase lines once they are drawn.
If you are using a watercolor pencil, you can apply the color directly to the paper without diluting it with water. This will give you a more opaque color.
You can also use watercolor markers to add color to your drawings. Markers are a quick and easy way to add color, but they can be more difficult to blend than watercolor paint.
With a little practice, you will be able to create beautiful drawings that combine the precision of multiliner pens with the vibrancy of watercolor.
So get out there and start experimenting!
I'm celebrating a decade of consecutive daily art!
10 YEARS OF DAILY ART!!!
〰️
10 YEARS OF DAILY ART!!! 〰️
I just completed year 10 of my daily creative habit! Here’s what this past year looked like…
Every year on the anniversary, I share what all the years collectively look like too. And since most days I created more than one piece, it’s probably close to 5,000 images.
I started by creating in the margins. Stealing time here and there.
And soon enough momentum came.
Momentum brings habit and habit bring change.
I went from a 10 year art hiatus, to now 10 years of daily art.
Never underestimate small daily deposits.
What do you want to accomplish?
On episode 132 of Creative Chats podcast, I share some insights on what I’ve learned along the way these 10 years! Give a listen:
https://creativechats.libsyn.com/131-what-ive-learned-in-creating-daily-for-10-consecutive-years
Here’s my collage of all 10 years of daily art… (kinda fun to look at!)
Start with what’s in your hand
Start with what’s in your hand.
It just might be seeds of greatness, but to you, right now, it looks like something so small and useless.
Don’t be so enamored by huge dreams that you don’t use what is before you today. Remember what seeds are. They are beginnings. They are carriers of dreams, hopes, and our desires to make great things that can impact the world around us.
But if we never plant them, they won’t be able to do what they’re supposed to do. They won’t take root. They won’t grow.
They need to go into the dark, cold ground, where sometimes it seems like we’ve buried the dead. But they are waiting for the right time to burst forth with new life, and fruit.
Don’t give up. Don’t wait for the perfect time. Don’t despise humble beginnings. Use what’s in your hand right now and plant it where you are.
Feeling like your creativity is insignificant?
Feeling invisible doesn’t mean being insignificant.
Our feelings lie and tell us if no one is noticing us, or our work, then we’re not significant, nor is our art.
Significance comes from who we are. Our identity.
When we create from a place of security in that, we have the freedom to be ourselves and release our work.
We all want to create work that makes an impact.
We want followers, likes and shares. But after we create our work and release it, it finds its own way.
Today, you are significant.
Start with that.
Then create and release.
Don't Create Alone
Being a creative can be a lonely path.
There’s no one keeping you showing up to create but yourself.
Wouldn’t you like to be able to consistently show up to create your art? (Instead of flirting with it)
That’s why I created the Daily Creative Habit community.
The Daily Creative Habit is a private Facebook group where Artists, Makers, and Creatives interested in creating more consistently, and growing in their creative practice gather and share.
I’ve learned a lot after returning to my art after a 10 year hiatus, via embarking on a 365 day daily art making journey that has lasted 8+ years and is still going. (Never missed a day!) When you show up daily, over time you come to discover your voice, style, passion, and unlock key principles for your creative journey.
The goal here is equipping you with ideas, methods and community that help you establish a daily creative habit, so you can gain traction in your creative projects. It’s important for others to celebrate your success, to help others, and to ask questions in the group setting so everyone can gain some clarification and validation.
This community consists of visual artists, writers, performers, makers, hobbyists and professionals, and anyone “creating.” This space was created as a safe place to share thoughts, exchange and explore ideas, and get some encouragement when ya wanna share something exciting in your creative journey. Comment, share your wins, ask questions, learn, and take action! By sharing what’s working for you in your creative practice, you will undoubtedly inspire a fellow creative to take action in their lives.
Simply visit www.DailyCreativeHabit.com where you’ll be forwarded to the Facebook group page. Just answer the 3 questions, and request to join.
I hope to see you there!
When I was a kid, Halloween stressed me out!
I spent this past Saturday at the Dog Walk of The Dead event (think Halloween family event complete with dogs and people in costume). There was the Weiner dog who was a hot dog, a corgi who was a Game of Thrones dragon, skeleton dogs...
Who wouldn't want to dress their dog up as a Bantha complete with Tuscan Raider? (If you're not a Star Wars nerd, this might be over your head...)
I’ve spent time the past few years at the Dog Walk of The Dead event (think Halloween family event complete with dogs and people in costume). One year, there was the Weiner dog who was a hot dog, a corgi who was a Game of Thrones dragon, skeleton dogs... you get the idea.
When I was a kid, choosing the right Halloween costume for myself was stressful (yes, there was an embarrassing homemade clown, and a box covered with tin foil, otherwise known as a robot- and hidden photo evidence).
These days, you gotta have the right costume for your pet too!! (and Instagram worthy I might add.)
If you dress your pets up for Halloween (or more likely, they let you…) check out these creative costumes!
What costume would you choose for your pet?
Leave me a comment. Bonus points for photos! (even embarrassing ones)
Looking for some pet art or a custom pet portrait?
Check out my shop!
Live and Virtual Drawing Opportunities for Artists During Covid-19 Quarantine
Recently, I found myself in the place where due to being in lockdown because of the current Covid-19 situation, I had a bit more available time that I wanted to spend drawing, but found it hard to locate resources.
Art centers near and far were hosting online events for figure drawing, but some weren’t at optimal times, and others I found out about after the event due to the algorithm. (Darn you AL…)
I love that so many new opportunities to draw, and join in communities far away have been brought close, and become available.
So I decided to compile the opportunities I have come across, from art centers and schools, to art models who are offering their own opportunities directly either via zoom, Instagram lives, or like one model (Whitney Masters) figure modeling via 4K recording for on demand.
I “met” Whitney through Instagram. Like today.
She saw that I was an artist, so she reached out. Coincidentally, I was compiling this list of resources, so I asked is she might be interested in sharing how she’s been leaning into opportunities (and creating new ones) to help solve problems. She needs more gigs and income, artists are looking for ways to attend figure drawing sessions with live models.
So we jumped on a zoom call, and had a quick chat about how all this started. Watch our chat.
Whitney Masters (model)
http://www.whitneymasters.com/
For hour long video, please email me at whitney.masters.model@gmail.com
The following is a list of drawing opportunities for Artists (figure and otherwise).
Some are live, timed events on zoom, some evergreen resources, some figure drawing with models (clothed and / or nude), while other aren’t figure based at all.
(Note: if you or those around you are sensitive to nude figure drawing, click cautiously)
IF YOU HAVE MORR RESOURCES YOU WOULD LIKE TO ADD, DROP THEM IN THE COMMENTS SECTION.
The Drawing Center - DrawNow! Online
https://www.eventbrite.com/o/the-drawing-center-12021710001
Brooklyn Figure Drawing
https://www.meetup.com/meetup-group-MYOCNSPt/
Drawing America
Gallery Girls
LIVE LIFE DRAWING going Global with TONY
Dynamic Figure Drawing Live!
https://www.meetup.com/Dynamic-Figure-Drawing-in-Brooklyn/
NYC Urban Sketchers
http://nyc.urbansketchers.org/
The Jolly Sketcher
https://bookwhen.com/thejollysketcher#focus=ev-se6s-20200418110000
Sketchbook Skool
Platform Studios
https://www.platformchicago.com/figure-drawing-sessions
New Masters Academy
Youtube example (contains nudity):
All The Young Nudes - Life Drawing Online
https://www.atyn.co.uk/
Croquis Cafe
Video example (contains nudity):
https://bit.ly/3bCgbNu
Pose Maniacs
Line of Action
Quickposes
Bodies in Motion
https://www.bodiesinmotion.photo/
Proko
Pinterest Collection
https://www.pinterest.com/bjim35_1/nude-art-poses/
ArtModelTips.com
Draw Juice
Anna Catherine - direct model offering
https://www.instagram.com/annacatherinemuse/
Dress Up Your Walls with These DIY Wall Art Ideas
Source: Pixabay
The following is a guest post by Wendy Dessler
A fresh, new coat of paint, while can really freshen up a room, will only take it so far. If you really want to personalize your home and add a bit of pizazz to any space, then consider using one of the DIY wall art ideas found here.
There are more than a few ideas to try. Keep reading to learn what some of the best DIY wall art ideas are trending now and how you can effectively personalize your space.
A Painted Tarp
When it comes to high-end DIYs for your walls, you’ll find an old canvas is a smart solution. If you have one lying around, don’t toss it out, instead turn it into a work of art. You can use virtually any substance on it – paint, charcoal, pastels, etc. Draw a picture or have your kids draw something. This is a great way to repurpose an old tarp you have, or you can purchase one second-hand if needed.
A Porcelain Gallery
Do you have an extensive China collection? If so, why not take it out of the cupboard or cabinet, and display it on the wall? This is an unexpected twist to the more classic gallery wall look, as well. Be sure to map out your gallery using paper before you start putting holes in the wall, as this is going to minimize problems.
A Fabric Wall Hanging
Do you have a vintage area rug or an antique quilt? Is it sitting in a closet or behind a couch somewhere? If you haven’t been using it, then why not repurpose it by hanging it up on your wall? It’s a great way to add some color and interest to any room in your house.
Children’s Artwork
Your kids have likely created more than a few amazing pieces of art, now is the time to show them off. Not only does this give you a great way to add color and fun to your room, you can also help your child feel like an amazing artist – just look at how proud they seem when you hang up their artwork. You can even have it professionally framed to add a bit more elegance, if desired.
Source: Pixabay
Put a Unique Spin on the Typical Portraits
Do you like the idea of displaying your family on your walls? Is this an appealing option, but you want to go traditional, consider portraits from Instapainting. These portrait paintings provide you with the perfect solution to show off your family, with a more interesting spin.
Clipped Art
Do you like the minimalist look? If so, this is a great option. Just put up a photograph that you love, without a frame. This is a minimalist look that will definitely add some fun and interest to your room.
A Beaded Wall Hanging
You can create your own unique wall hanging and all you need is a branch and some beads. This will create a type of bohemian vibe. Consider an asymmetrical look and design as this offers a more whimsical look and will take up much less real estate on your wall than a woven hanging.
Use Found Objects
Virtually anything can be used as wall décor – even a skateboard – if you style it properly. Use found objects as wall art in your home. With a bit of imagination and creativity, the options are unlimited.
If you want to enhance your home and dress up your walls, then the tips here will help you get started. You’ll find all the ideas here as viable options and can feel confident that everyone will love the look you have created.
Wendy Dessler
Outreach manager
Wendy Dessler is a super-connector who helps businesses find their audience online through outreach, partnerships, and networking. She frequently writes about the latest advancements in digital marketing and focuses her efforts on developing customized blogger outreach plans depending on the industry and competition.
3 of My Current Favorite Creative Podcasts – Have You Listened to Any of These?
Everyone needs companions for the journey. But when you are starting a new business or venture (“solopreneur”) it can be pretty lonely.
That’s why I’ve found it so valuable to constantly surround myself with voices that can speak into my journey. We need to hear how others have or are dealing with a lot of the same issues we find ourselves faced with. We need the encouragement that comes with truly being understood, and the inspiration of those who have gone ahead of us.
Hearing these voices can be crucial, especially on days where we feel like giving up (We all have those days!).
In light of that, here are some of my recent favorite podcasts – so whether you’re looking for a fresh source of inspiration, education, or just plain entertainment, consider checking these out. There are tons of great podcasts out there, but these have been really meaningful to me:
Podcast 1: CREATIVE PEP TALK
Andy J Pizza
Episode number #234 9 MARKETING TACTICS TO GAIN THE TRUE FANS YOU NEED TO THRIVE NOW
Andy J Pizza is a super creative with a style all his own. He’s been in the trenches as an illustrator and creative for years. And you can glean some wisdom and insights on his podcast the Creative Pep Talk.
If you make super great creative work, the word will spread. The problem is this: will it spread as fast as you need it to, to keep the lights on? Will you run out of steam before your time has come? The solution is good marketing. In this episode I want to share the 9 pieces of advice I'd give any artist whose work isn't catching on at the rate they want it to.
If you’d like to listen here’s the link.
Podcast 2: DON'T KEEP YOUR DAY JOB
Cathy Heller
Episode #47, Season 3 - How to Overcome Impostor Syndrome
How do you build confidence to take action when you constantly feel like a fraud? Cathy shares how she's dealt with that pesky impostor syndrome, how you can feed yourself with reminders of self worth, and how to replace the unattainable goal of providing "expertise" and "perfection" with empathy and authenticity - so you can start serving the world by being your true self. If you’d like to give a listen, here’s the link.
Podcast 3: The Brand You Podcast
Mike Kim
Episode #173: How I Deal With Rejection, Every Single Day
Ah, rejection. It's inevitable that we'll face it, yet we'll do anything possible to avoid it In this episode, Mike shares a little bit about how he deals with rejection. See, we often take failure as a personal rejection. It's not. If people don't know the real you, it's not possible for them to reject the real you.
Whether you're looking to start a side-hustle, grow your own business, or just enter into a new phase of your relationships or career -- rejection is something you can not only deal with, but overcome.
Give a listen to the episode- here’s the link.
What are some of your favorite podcasts? I’d love to hear them — especially ones you’ve been creatively challenged by. Leave a comment below!
There are so many wonderful and unique creatures in this world.
There are so many wonderful and unique creatures in this world. Colors, textures, shapes... variety. I might not get to see many in person but knowing they even exist makes me appreciate the Creator all the more.
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#octopus #art #sea #seacreature #artist #color #octopus🐙 #painting #mikebone #mikebrennanart #contemporaryart #dailyart #aquatica #aquaticart #water #creation #illustration #illustrator #artwork
How often do you do things that stretch you? Avoiding pain or discomfort may keep you safe, but it will also keep you from becoming the person you should be. The real you.
How often do you do things that stretch you? Avoiding pain or discomfort may keep you safe, but it will also keep you from becoming the person you should be. The real you.
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Art inspired by @alisonlevier
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#yoga #yogi #yogaart #yogaartist #stretch
Some days make you feel incomplete. Your own lack and neediness would love to convince you that you are not enough. It’s in those moments that the battle heats up.
Some days make you feel incomplete. Your own lack and neediness would love to convince you that you are not enough. It’s in those moments that the battle heats up. When you try as you may to muster the strength, to not react, but to believe. Lord, I believe. Help my unbelief. | art inspired by @jamiemarieduncan
#yoga #yogi #yogaart #yogaartist #art #artist #contemporaryart #illustration #yogitoes #drawing #yogachallenge #yogainspiration #yogalife #visualart #mikebone #mikebrennanart #illustrator #illustrationart
As much as I joke about hating snow & winter (which i really do), the winter months really do mess with me.
As much as I joke about hating snow & winter (which i really do), the winter months really do mess with me. By late February - mid March I start feeling like I gotta get out of here and go sit in some sand. | art inspired by @paolabullon
#art #artist #beach #illustration #illustrator #drawing #ocean #mikebone #contemporaryart #artoftheday #mikebrennanart #artwork #artistsoninstagram #summer #clouds