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?
The Art of Finishing: Why Completing Projects Is Your Creative Superpower
Because Half-Done Doesn't Cut It Anymore
Alright, fellow creatives, let's get real for a moment. Have you ever found yourself knee-deep in a creative project, only to abandon it when something shinier struts by? (Squirrel!)
Raise your hand if you have more unfinished drafts than completed ones. Yep, I see you. It's a common plight, but one that we need to tackle head-on. Why? Because completing your projects isn't just beneficial—it's downright essential.
Why We Can't Focus Anymore
First, let’s address the giant, pixelated elephant in the room—our dwindling attention spans. Remember the days when boredom was an option? Yeah, me neither. It’s like our ability to focus is competing in the Fastest-Shrinking Ability contest. Blame social media, blame Netflix, blame whatever, but the fact remains: our capacity to focus and finish has taken a nosedive.
The Shiny Object Syndrome
Oh, so shiny….! New ideas are like new toys—irresistible. But why do we abandon our current projects to chase the next big thing? Perhaps it’s the fear that what we’re working on isn’t good enough. Or maybe it's the terror of wasting our precious time on something that might flop. But let me drop some wisdom: Finishing what you start is a skill. It’s like a muscle you need to train, and trust me, the gains are worth it.
The Power of Completion
Completing something provides an unparalleled sense of achievement. You set out to do something, and guess what? You actually did it! That’s more than just a feather in your cap; it’s a confidence booster. You get to prove to yourself—and the world—that you can commit and follow through, a skill that’s increasingly rare but incredibly valuable.
Developing and Refining Skills
Every project you complete hones your skills. Think of each finished piece as a level-up in your creative game. Whether you’ve nailed a new technique or refined an old one, the act of finishing builds your arsenal for future projects. You're not just working on one piece; you're investing in your future self, your future projects, and ultimately, your creative legacy.
Perfectionism and Fear of Failure
Let's talk about the twin dragons that often keep us from finishing anything—perfectionism and fear of failure. The idea that if something isn’t perfect, it isn’t worth doing or completing is a pervasive thought. But here’s the kicker: Perfectionism is just another form of procrastination in disguise. And failure? It’s just feedback. Edison didn’t invent the light bulb on his first try; he embraced his 99 failures as learning opportunities leading to that one glowing success.
Maintaining Motivation and Focus
Long-term projects can often feel like an endless slog up a mountain. The secret? Break it down. Divide your monstrous project into smaller, manageable tasks. Create mini-milestones and give yourself little rewards as you hit them. Remember why you started this project in the first place and keep your eyes on the prize.
Create Clear Goals and Deadlines
Don't just jump into your car and drive aimlessly. Set clear goals and deadlines. When you know exactly what you need to do and when you need to do it, the journey becomes a lot less daunting. Think of it as GPS for your creative endeavors. Having these guidelines can prevent that overwhelming feeling that often leads to starting but not finishing.
Stay Flexible but Structured
Yes, plans are important but so is flexibility. Life has a way of throwing curveballs, so be ready to adapt without losing sight of your end goals. Trust me, there’s a fine balance between being committed and being rigid. Think jazz improvisation, where structure meets spontaneity.
Celebrate Milestones
Why wait until the end to celebrate? Small victories along the way are crucial. This isn't just a feel-good tactic; it's scientifically proven that celebrating small wins boosts your motivation. So go ahead, do a little victory dance when you hit a mini-milestone.
Embrace Imperfection
Finally, embrace that your project will never be perfect. Shocked? Good. Perfection is a myth, a mirage. Completing a project, flaws and all, is a testament to your perseverance and your commitment to your craft. Your imperfections are what make your projects uniquely yours.
So, what's it going to be? Another half-baked idea or a completed masterpiece? Choose to finish. Practice the art of completion and watch how your creative process transforms. Review, reflect, and repeat.
Now, go out there and finish something! Show the world—and yourself—what you can do.
Go create. Go finish. Your creative journey depends on it.
Want to be a part of a community that can help hold you accountable to finish some projects? Join us in the Daily Creative Habit Membership!
The Gift of Creativity: A Conversation with James Victore
Illustration: Mike Brennan. Hire me for editorial or portrait illustrations - www.MikeBrennanArt.com
I recently had the pleasure of sitting down with James Victore, a creative dynamo whose work I’ve admired for ages (especially coming from graphic design). Our chat was a goldmine of insights on creativity—its ups, downs, and practical steps to foster your own authentic expression.
James kicked things off with a childhood memory that stuck with him—melted crayons. Yep, you heard that right. Those melted crayons left a vivid mark on his senses and inspired him to create work that sparks strong emotional responses. We agreed that creativity often digs its roots deep into personal experiences and sensory memories, making it uniquely ours.
We also tackled the frustrations many creatives face: not being appreciated or allowed to fully express themselves at work. James nailed it when he said everyone just wants to be seen, heard, and valued. In today’s attention economy, he insists, you’ve got to keep showing up, presenting your work, and engaging in those conversations.
James is all about creating motivational, inspirational, and educational posters like those for kids in schools. But, surprise surprise, sometimes he runs into gatekeepers who make reaching his audience tricky. Despite the hurdles, James sees his work as a gift, not a chore. Check out his website: YourWorkIsAGift.com
We dove into how our creative journeys evolve. James talked about his calling to be creative and the grit it takes to hang onto that creativity. He shared a time when his creativity was squashed, leading him to try a different career path before finding his way back to his true passion. Because, let’s face it, once a creative, always a creative.
These days, James coaches creative directors and professionals on embracing their true passions. He shared stories of folks torn between their interests, like a leather maker torn between trinkets and handbags. James helps them find joy in their work because, really, life’s too short to be stuck doing something you don’t love.
I also opened up about my own struggles with burnout and depression after stepping away from design. It was a tough period, but it led to deeper self-discovery.
James hosts retreats aim to break down barriers and help participants unearth their true selves, fostering a sense of community and personal growth.
So, what can you take away from our Creative Chat? Here are some nuggets of wisdom:
1. Trust Your Creativity: Believe in your creative instincts and let yourself explore them. No holds barred.
2. Show Up Consistently: Keep putting in the effort. Present your work and start those conversations. No one’s going to do it for you.
3. See Work as a Gift: Change your perspective. View your work as a gift, and you’ll find it easier to push through obstacles.
4. Pursue Passion Projects: Find what excites you and weave it into your work. Less frustration, more satisfaction.
5. Seek Community: Surround yourself with like-minded folks who support your creative journey. It’s way easier to stay motivated that way.
Our conversation was a great reminder of the deep connection between personal experience and creative expression, and the importance of sticking with it on the road to authentic creativity.
Listen to Creative Chats episode 237 for more!
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!
The Monster Under Your Creativity Bed
We've all been there.
Staring at a blank page (or screen) that feels more like a judgmental abyss than a canvas for brilliance. That nagging voice whispers, "Who do you think you are, creating something amazing?" But fear not, because today we're slaying the monsters that lurk under the bed of creativity!
Let's get real actionable!
Monster #1: The Perfectionist Posse
These guys wear ironed suits of self-doubt and wield pitchforks of "what ifs." They convince you your work needs to be a masterpiece before it even sees the light of day. Actionable Step: Ditch the all-or-nothing mentality. Create something messy, imperfect, and freaking awesome. Nobody wrote a novel on the first try, and Picasso didn't start with masterpieces (seriously, look up his early work, it's...interesting).
Monster #2: The Comparison Goblin
This green-eyed gremlin loves showing you other people's achievements and whispering, "You'll never be that good." Actionable Step: Unfollow the highlight reels! Focus on your own journey, your unique spark. There's room for all kinds of creativity in the world, and yours brings something special nobody else can replicate. You do you boo.
Monster #3: The Time Thief
This shadowy figure steals your hours with "just one more episode" (I feel exposed) and "I'll get to it tomorrow." Actionable Step: Schedule your creativity! Block out dedicated time, even if it's just 15 minutes a day. Treat it like an important appointment you wouldn't dare miss.
Monster #4: The "Someday" Dragon
This mythical beast hoards your ideas in a cave of "somedays" that never come. Actionable Step: Start small. Take one tiny step towards your creative dream today. Write a sentence, sketch a doodle, record a single voice memo. Momentum is magic, and tiny steps lead to big journeys. (Take some Abracadabra naysayers!)
Here's the thing: sometimes, the biggest monster is the one we create ourselves.
Remember the classic children's book, "There's a Monster at the End of This Book?" (It's my FAVORITE!) Grover spends the entire story freaking out because there's supposedly a monster at the end of the book. He keeps telling you NOT to turn the pages. But guess who the monster is? Grover himself!
We are often the monsters stopping ourselves from creating.
So grab your metaphorical flamethrower of self-belief and roast those creativity-sucking monsters! The world needs your unique spark. Now get out there and make something messy, magnificent, and entirely you!
Want to join a merry band of creative monster slayers? Become a Daily Creative Habit Member!
Lost your creative Mojo and feeling burned out?
Talent isn’t enough.
The first time I heard that statement, I don’t think I really agreed, until I took a closer look.
I had seen plenty of talented people have lots of opportunities that seemed to elude me. But I also have witnessed fellow art school students who were the top of the class talent-wise, crash and burn, leaving their art and creativity behind completely.
And all these years later, I have seen the same for many successful professional creative people.
It’s entirely possible to seem to have it all from an outward appearance, but to feel creatively bankrupt inside.
You can have an impressive client list.
You can have tons of awards and accolades.
You can be postured publicly for success.
And be utterly frustrated and dissatisfied.
I worked with fellow creatives in large advertising agencies with huge global corporate clients you would know. So much creative energy was leveraged for the clients that nothing was left for their personal expression. The clients were king, leaving them feeling like there was no room for self-expression or creative freedom in their life. Creating significant work seemed elusive.
It’s easy to build an empire that you can’t escape from. The never-ending cycle of creative pitches, client kiboshes, followed by frustration and discouragement. Rinse and repeat.
And it’s even more devastating when that empire is yanked away from you, because the powers that be decide on “creatively flushing the system” or the economy turns upside-down. I witnessed this up close in my first full-time creative position. Wide sweeping firing at all levels of the corporation in order to get "new blood." Talent couldn’t save anyone.
While not everything you create is meant for public consumption or has a place within client-driven projects, what I am saying is that we need our own creative space. No clients. No agendas. No financial pressures. A place where we are free to play, experiment and make mistakes without occupational repercussions.
While everyone is clamoring for the latest and greatest creative ideas, it’s easy to copy the culture around us while never diving deep enough to find something connected to what we uniquely have to offer. But here’s the honest truth: if you don’t take the time to cultivate your own voice, no one is going to do it for you.
This has all been part of my own creative journey. And as I talk with fellow creative people, I know I’m not alone. Does this resonate?
That’s a part of why I launched the Daily Creative Habit Membership. It's a place to invest in YOU and your creativity. To hone your voice, style, see results and creative transformation through consistent work. All in the context of a supportive creative community, and a live monthly call.
If you're ready to reignite your passion, discover your unique voice, and build a wellspring of creative inspiration, head over to the Daily Creative Habit Membership to learn more about or join today:
Why Your Next Big Idea Might Just Be a Classic
How Jim Henson Turned Rejection into Creative Gold.
If you haven’t seen the Ron Howard documentary yet, do yourself a favor and watch “Jim Henson: Idea Man” on Disney Plus. (It’s a game-changer!) After watching I found myself swirling in thoughts and inspiration.
Let's take a dive into the genius of Jim Henson and discover some valuable lessons for our own creative journeys.
Jim Henson: The Ultimate Idea Machine
I've always felt a deep connection with Jim Henson’s work—way more than Disney, to be honest. Disney was an occasional trip to fantasyland - it was "out there." But Henson? He was in my living room every day, making me laugh and feel understood. (I mean Sesame Street, the Muppets, on and on). His humor, creativity, and relentless pursuit of ideas are something we can all learn from.
Lesson 1: Curiosity Fuels Creativity
Watching the Disney Plus documentary “Jim Henson: Idea Man” was a solid reminder of his relentless curiosity. Henson didn’t just stick to one thing; he followed his ideas wherever they led (Even when they never led to becoming a real thing, like the night club he envisioned). It’s this curiosity that drove him from project to project, making him a true creative powerhouse.
Takeaway: Don’t box yourself in. Let your curiosity guide you. Explore new mediums, experiment, and keep the creative flame alive.
Lesson 2: Embrace Failure
Let’s be real—most of what we create won’t be instant hits (cue sad horns). Henson’s Muppet Show faced rejection after rejection. "The Dark Crystal" and "Labyrinth" were initially flops. Yet, they’re now classics.
Takeaway: Failure isn’t the end; it’s part of the journey (but it still stings in the moment). Every rejection is a step closer to your next success. Keep creating, no matter what.
Lesson 3: The Joy of Making
Henson’s life and work are a testament to the joy of making. The process of creating—drawing, painting, sculpting, designing, writing, performing—is fulfilling in itself.
Takeaway: Focus on the joy of creation. Whether it’s a masterpiece or a forgotten project, the act of creating is what truly matters.
Lesson 4: Creativity as a Calling
Being a creative is no easy feat. It’s full of hurdles, both internal and external. Someone once told me (in a former career life), “You go into ministry because you can’t not do it. But it’s not for the faint of heart.” The same goes for creativity. It’s a calling, something you can’t shake off.
Takeaway: Embrace your creative calling. It’s not always easy, but it’s always worth it. Keep making, keep dreaming, and keep pushing forward.
Like Jim Henson, I’m driven by the need to create. I’ve made everything from drawings and music to events and books. Not everything has been successful, but the process has shaped me into who I am today.
Be inspired by Henson’s legacy. Keep chasing your ideas and turning them into real things. We need those real things—both for ourselves and for the world.
Keep creating, keep dreaming, and keep being awesome!
Connecting and Communicating Creatively with Gina London
I had the opportunity to chat with the extraordinary Gina London, CEO of the Language of Leadership company, a distinguished Emmy award winning former CNN anchor, and a dynamic author. We talked about the power of communication, relationships, and creativity.
Building Lasting Relationships for Success and Happiness
Hearing about Gina London's insights and perspectives brought an enlightening view on the importance of relationships for lasting success and happiness. It's apparent that achievements aren't just about the solitary wins; it's the human connections forged along the way that truly make a difference. Gina emphasizes that it's these strong bonds that support and sustain us over time.
The Transformative Power of Effective Communication
Observing Gina's approach highlights the transformative power of effective communication in the workplace. She teaches that nurturing a culture where people feel included and significant can lead to enhanced work performance and a better overall atmosphere.
Embracing Continuous Self-Improvement
Gina advocates for continuous self-improvement in communication. This isn't a one-off effort; it's a day-by-day practice, akin to a fitness routine for communication skills. With resources like the Language of Leadership, individuals can make incremental progress toward mastering the art of connection.
Creativity: A Cornerstone of Business
Her belief that creativity is essential in business shines through. Storytelling, showing real interest in colleagues, and promoting a positive environment are creative strategies that she believes can change the business landscape for the better. Combining authority with approachability is a formula she champions for team engagement and achievement.
Infusing Fun into Work: The Role of Playfulness
Gina also recognizes the role of fun in the workplace. (A shared value between us!) By infusing a sense of playfulness and imagination into professional environments, companies can transform into spaces where people are eager to contribute creatively. Recounting a gamification workshop in Saudi Arabia, Gina shows that even top executives can embrace this aspect, leading to exciting and successful outcomes.
Harnessing Creative and Sincere Connections
Gina's work confirms that every interaction we have is an opportunity for positive and creative influence. She teaches that being mindful of how we communicate and building deep connections can lead to significant progress in both business and personal realms. My conversation with her is a powerful reminder of how essential creative and sincere connections are to moving forward.
Connect with Gina London:
Want more? Listen to the full Creative Chats episode 228
I don’t know if it was the ghost of Elvis, denied entry in downtown Nashville, or retracing Tom Cruise’s steps but it was certainly memorable.
I’ve been reflecting on a road trip that I took during my college years. I referred to it as my “Triangle Tour”, as I had three major destinations.
I started at my sister’s house in North Carolina, then headed to a friend in Memphis, TN, over to another friend in Augusta, GA, then back to my sister in North Carolina completing my triangle.
I rented a car, and settled in with my music and snacks to embark upon my solo journey. These were days pre-cell phones and GPS maps, so I had a printed trip via AAA with highlighted routes and stops, and my trusty Rand McNally map that I dared not unfold for fear of never getting it folded back up again.
Although I had major destinations in mind, I left room for exploring along the way.
This was the first time I landed in Nashville, and right in the middle of some major music festival that shut the place down. I had no idea where I was, where I was going, nor did I know a soul. What I did have was a crush on Faith Hill, and an eagerness to try to find her and make her fall in love with me (all this from getting her first CD in a bargain bin, because I thought she looked beautiful. She was unknown at this point.) Alas, I never did find her.
Next, I found my way to Mud Island, the Memphis river museum, and the film location of the Tom Cruise movie The Firm (a clue to the time period). I took in the sights, the history, and the experiences.
Then I got locked out of my car by the ghost of Elvis (kidding… maybe) at Graceland. So I took the tour as I waited for a locksmith to come and bail me out.
I went to a huge drive-in theatre in Memphis and saw The Flintstones movie (bad choice), walked the streets of Memphis to see all the sights like Sun studios, and baked in the sun.
In Augusta, GA, I went exploring a local park, had heart-to-heart convos, and went to a college graduation with my host, and the family party that followed.
I wish I had taken a camera with me as all I have are these fading memories, mental snapshots of the trip.
I remember driving all that time by myself, wishing that I had someone to experience it with. Some things feel more real in the presence of others.
I remember being chatty at a gas station because I was looking for someone to connect with (unlike me as a NYer where you don’t talk to strangers).
Fragments of memories. Of a different time. Of a different me.
Yet, part of my journey, both physically and experientially.
Part of the reason why I was thinking about this road trip from long ago is that I’ve been reviewing my creative journey as I approach eleven years of daily creativity.
My creative journey has been like that road trip at times. I had anchor points and a lot of discovery along the way. Points where I got locked out of my car, creatively speaking. Points where the journey was lonely, wishing for some connection. And then thankful when I found some community among friends.
There were points of following my interests that led to new understandings, and then ones that led to dead ends.
It was a journey of self-discovery as much as it was a journey of destinations.
And for creativity, there is no final destination.
My creativity looks different today than it did when I came back to my art following my ten-year absence. I was broken. Suffering. Searching. I needed my creativity for me. To help me heal. To help me make sense of things.
These days, there’s less angst (thank God!), and I know a larger part of my journey is to help be a guide. To keep creating, and these days, it is much more than visual art. My creativity has enlarged.
And while the tools and technology have changed since my early days (much like gps replacing those paper maps) the desire to make something where there was once nothing has only increased.
I know the difference creativity has made in my life. And so this is why I’m on such a mission to help others step into their creativity, personally and professionally.
I really do believe that when YOU create, we all win.
We’re all on our own journeys, our own road trips. Different schedules. Different locations.
Yet, still so much the same.
Here’s to hoping to meet up at a gas station along the way, to fill up in more ways than one.
I’m glad we’re connected, even if it’s just for a season.
And if we go our separate ways, may we have some snapshots that we fondly look upon and recount the stories of days gone by. As we set out to new places. Creating as we go.
Unlock Your Creative Potential with This Simple Time Management Strateg
I started using this method a couple of days ago, and it’s helping me focus so I can not only be creative but prioritize my time and be productive. I shared this video in the Daily Creative Habit Facebook group.
Give it a shot and let me know how it works for you!
Need some Post-it notes?
Grab some here: https://amzn.to/3TmY19q
4 Strategies To Revive Your Creativity After A Bout Of Stress
Let's be honest: the world hasn't been an easy place to live in lately. Soaring gas prices, general inflation, and nearly two full years of a pandemic has nearly everyone in America experiencing unprecedented amounts of stress. Though you may think this'll pass, it's likely that your body won't see things in the same way.
That's right: stress can negatively impact our bodies in lasting ways. Online health resource SymptomFind explains that stress can put you in "fight-or-flight" mode. This triggers the production of inflammatory hormones that can put your health at risk in the long run.
You may even find that stress can kill your drive to create. As an artist, this can be especially harmful. Fortunately, there are ways of relieving stress, reviving your creativity, and even keeping yourself healthy in the long run. So below are a few strategies you can try out.
Create a conducive environment
Have you ever noticed that people tend to work better at coffee shops? The lighting, soft music, and low chatter of diners combine to create an ambiance perfect for productivity. The same principle applies to creativity. A workspace needs to motivate you — and if it's not doing that at a time when your stress levels are high, it's probably time for a revamp. On our blog, contributor Wendy Dressler mentioned you can go beyond a fresh coat of paint by dressing up your walls with art to inspire you. You can also try rearranging some furniture, organizing your desk, adding a few plants, and making sure that you're getting an ample amount of natural light.
Socialize
By getting in touch with family, friends, and fellow artists, you can do more than just fish for new and inspiring creative ideas. By doing so, it helps release a brain chemical called oxytocin, which this 2021 article from Scientific Journals explains is linked to improved creative thinking. What's more, the release of oxytocin into the bloodstream also has some anti-stress effects. What you get is the spread of a chemical that won't just offer you stress relief, but allows you to easily find creative ways to express ideas that are shared with and received from others.
Go for a walk
If you're more of an introvert but want to get that same burst of inspiration, walking is a great alternative — and a wonderful solution to this creativity-stress dilemma all on its own. This exposes you to a wide variety of stimuli that can fire your neurons and get you going. Walking at a comfortable pace in the sun while breathing in that fresh air also releases endorphins, another feel-good chemical that has stress-relieving effects. Researchers from Stanford even found that walking can boost your creativity by over 60%. By losing yourself in your surroundings and noticing things you haven't before, you're sure to find creativity knocking on your mental doorstep.
Indulge in some self-care
Don't underestimate the power of an all-out self-care session. Enhance your bubble bath with candles, a glass of wine, and a good book. When getting a massage, hit the sauna too. Finally let yourself try that skincare routine with more than 10 steps in it. This should be enough to give your brain a creative reset. You can even immerse yourself in crafts that need creativity on a level you don't really need to think about, like knitting or baking. These activities should do wonders for your stress levels as well.
What does Nine Consecutive Years of Daily Art Look Like?
This is year nine! All 365 days.
Every year since I have embarked on this 365 day art making journey, I mark the passing of another year with a college of images, all created from that year.
If you’re not familiar with my story on how I came back to my art after a ten year absence and depression, you can catch up here.
Creating and sharing these images are a way for me to track my daily creative habit, and celebrate my wins.
I’ve also recorded a Creative Chats podcast episode of nine insights I have gained through my nine years of daily art making. You can take a listen here.
If you’re interested in establishing your own creative consistency, I’d love to have you join us in our free facebook group Daily Creative Habit!
And now…. Here’s what all 9 years together looks like!
I’ve been sharing my art for free everyday for the past 9 years and will continue to do so. If you’ve been enjoying it and feel like tossing in a few coins in the ol’ tip jar, you can do so below :)
How Can Visual Artists and Creatives Leverage Clubhouse App?
Follow me - @mikebrennan on Clubhouse
A quick disclaimer: I’m super new to this beta platform. Things are changing rapidly, but here’s my initial thoughts.
So what is Clubhouse?
There’s a new social media app called Clubhouse. Now, if you're not familiar with Clubhouse, you're not alone. It's very new, and still in beta mode, but essentially, Clubhouse is an audio only, invitation only (at the moment), social media app that's currently available for the iPhone only. So they've really narrowed things down to start with. I'm sure there'll be opening things up more as they roll things out. It took me a little while to get on. I kept seeing people posting about this app clubhouse and I started having, you know, serious case of FOMO, fear of missing out and was thinking to myself, I need to get on this thing. I want to find out what it is!
I tend to be a little bit more on the early adopter side. So for me, I really wanted to explore and be a part of some of the conversations that were happening there.
In Clubhouse there are “rooms” and people that you can follow like on all of the social media platforms. But unlike other social media platforms, there are no visuals other than your avatar profile icon . And there's no way of actually leaving or likes or comments. It's purely audio.
Upon entering the app, you see the “hallway”, which shows all the rooms with various themes that are happening. You might have themes that are around podcasting, making money, building your business, pop culture, art, faith, and just hang out rooms. Some of what you see depends on the people that you follow and their interests. You have to be a little more strategic as far as who you follow based on interest.
So in the hallway, you pick a room that you want to join. When you join in that room, there is someone who has created the room up, who is the main “speaker”, and typically the moderator as well. And then there's usually other people, who are “speakers” up on “stage.” You or other room members can be invited to come up on stage to share or ask a question. And the “listeners” (other people in the room) are hanging at the bottom of the room visually. They cannot speak unless they are invited to come on stage.
Anyone has the ability to enter any room, and either listen or participate. If someone wants to participate and they “raise their hand” (there's a little hand icon that you hit) to let the people in charge, know that you have a question or that you want to participate in some way. Then you wait to be invited up on “stage”, You unmute your mic on your phone and you ask your question and then mute it again. And everyone takes turns talking about whatever the various topics are.
That's kind of the general idea of Clubhouse. A lot of people think it's going to be a real game changer, as far as social media.
But I started wondering if there was any benefit to being on Clubhouse as a visual artist…
As I started to poke around, I searched to see if there were other visual artists and creative people. What I found was a variety of creative people on there (photographers, filmmakers, graphic designers, musicians, fine artists). So I ducked into some of their rooms. And I what I found was pretty fascinating.
It's a little bit like the Wild West right now in Clubhouse, because everyone is trying to figure out how to use it and what proper etiquette is. Everyone's a newbie.
No one needs something that's going to be another complete time-suck and waste of time. We have enough of those. So people are looking for what's the benefit, what's the value here? How can they show up and bring value? How can they create some things that are missing?
I ducked into a room that was for visual artists specifically, because this to me was the real test. If you can't see the art, what would this room look like? Was it going to be people just talking about their art? Or just a bunch of people sharing some art tips?
They opened the floor up for some questions. Some people asked questions about technique or about supplies, methods, things of that nature. Or they talked about what their subject matter was, or maybe process, or important themes within their artwork. Others talked about trying to market and sell their artwork, inquiring about connecting with clients and buyers.
At one point the room moderator said, “okay, we're going to reset the room a little bit here and just tell anybody new who's coming in, here's the expectation and purpose of the room” And then they announced taking a 10 minute break in the conversation for anyone who wanted to create something live while hanging out in the room. They played some music created by one of the people in the room, or a playlist from the person in charge.
I hung around to see what would happened, asking myself “how are people going to share what they're working on?” You can't share photos because it's not part of the platform, but you can temporarily change your avatar icon photo. People changed it from the photo of themselves to their work in progress. This allowed people right within the app to click on that little avatar and to see a larger photo of what the person was working on. They also shared some of the things that they were struggling with, ask for feedback in real time.
I wouldn’t have thought there would have been value in having a group of visual artists together on an audio only platform, but seeing people come together for community and connection in real time was pretty great.
Another room I entered had creatives sharing about what their biggest struggling in 2020 has been. Person after person shared stories of income loss, battling with anxiety and depression, as well as important business lessons they learned. When creative people are brave enough to share their stories and experiences, we start to see we’re not alone.
I had the opportunity to cohost a room about the Pixar movie Soul and the lessons about creativity is presented, alongside my friend Terry Weaver. We had a lively chat about what moved us in the film, and how the creative issues it brought to light effected us.
Terry Weaver and I co-hosted a room on Clubhouse talking about the Pixar movie Soul and the powerful themes presented for creatives.
I was pretty convinced that there's something special happening here on Clubhouse. And I think this is only getting continued to grow. Those who are on the platform early will have the opportunity to be a part of setting the tone and the pace and filling in some of those gaps that I mentioned before.
I also joined in a room that was talking about cryptocurrency and crypto art.
Now, if you have no idea what I'm talking about right now, don't worry because honestly, I really didn't know what this conversation was about other than the fact that it had “art” in the title. What I found out was there's a whole other world out there - a digital one (No, not The Matrix). Some people call it like “the metaverse” (Kind of like a Virtual Reality Minecraft word). I'm not going to get too deep into that. (And if you're somebody who's reading and you knew more about that kind of stuff I'd love to hear more about it from your side of things.)
Within this world, there are people who are creating art galleries, wanting to set up experiences. The end user would put on virtual reality glasses (Oculus or whatever technology) to enter and view this virtual reality world where they would be able to actually step into these visual paintings and experience things on a whole new level.
That's where this whole thing of crypto art and cryptocurrency comes in. There are artists who are creating digital artwork, digital art shows and galleries. There's exclusivity in some of the digital art where they authenticate pieces. That's how they know that that's the “original”, otherwise with digital work, you could be reproducing and I'm sharing it in multiple places. If somebody is paying for a piece of fine art at a high price, they want to know that this is the real deal, and that it’s authentic (and rare). All this that is happening I became aware of simply because I entered into this room.
Some people were talking about having all sorts of different resources available for digital galleries and virtual events around the arts. Other people were sharing resources (someone else in the room asked for pitch deck templates). Another person had one and was willing to send to them.
People are having these quick conversations where they have a need, and having it filled by someone else showing up in that room can help. Everyone was being free with resources and with insights and knowledge, and just generally being helpful to one another. Being a community, people who didn’t know each other moments ago, and from all over the globe.
Being on Clubhouse has me asking what’s possible in this space? What could be created or curated here? And I've, I've only been on this platform for maybe less than a week right at the time of writing this.
Some people may say it could be a flash in the pan, like several other social media platforms that have tried and disappeared. Other high level people think that this one is going to be a little more of a game changer because of the nature of the interactivity, that you have to show up as yourself. (You can't have some kind of alias.) You have to show up as you, with your voice.
“Being on Clubhouse has me asking what’s possible in this space? What could be created or curated here? ”
At this point, some other people were talking about using these rooms for mastermind groups and training or coaching, which is really interesting to think about. Still others are on there simply trying to just build their platform and grow their audience, which is easily done with the ability to connect your Instagram and your Twitter account to your profile as well. They're making changes to Clubhouse constantly, so some of these features may upgrade, like being able to connect more platforms.
When you're in a room you can go and click on anyone’s profiles and check out their bio for more about them. But the cool thing is that even if you're not in the clubhouse app, audio continues to play while you're in other apps. So you can still be a part of the room, and be listening to what's happening, but also checking out other social media platforms at the same time.
Maybe you're reading this and you're not a visual artist, but a musician. What would it look like for you to show up on this app (where it's an audio only), and you have the ability to share your music or clips of your music, or maybe have like a real time writing session with somebody or a group of people? That could be incredible. It's a means to connect with fellow creative people and also connect with people who might be your audience, collectors or clients.
Again, I don't know where it's going to go necessarily, but I just know every time that I'm on there and I jump into a room, I'm learning some new things. I'm getting access to some resources (people mentioned websites for further information). It's really incredible the speed at which you can have these conversations and the amount of people that can be in the room (and who you're in the room with.) You could be in a room with some people who are really well-established in their industry, having conversations and access to them.
You wouldn't have access to them or on other social media platforms if they have a million plus followers. They would never see you because of all the noise. With Clubhouse, you can be in a room alongside of them asking them questions or having them interact with you.
So it's pretty exciting. I can't wait to see what else comes of this platform. And if you are on Clubhouse, feel free to follow me - I'm @MikeBrennan. I’d love to connect with you there, and who knows, maybe there's even some things that we can create together!
For a more detailed breakdown check out this post from Social Media Examiner.
So what are your thoughts or questions about Clubhouse?
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.