Take a Creativity Break … You Won’t Be Graded!
One of the best ways we have to express ourselves is by being creative. Our creative activities allow us to take time away from our challenges, to let our emotions rest, to spend mindful moments immersed in something that we enjoy, and to express what’s inside ourselves.
By taking the time to be creative, we also grow and improve on many levels. We engage both sides of our brain, improving cognition and memory as well as manual dexterity. We allow ourselves to learn and try new things, expanding our horizons and our social circle. We also might see things in a new light, focusing on the satisfaction of the journey rather than the quality of the outcome.
Best of all, being creative is FUN. The only requirement is the desire to do something that interests you, that revitalizes you, and that you enjoy. You don’t have to be an expert or have special skills, and you’re not graded on the results.
You can express your creativity in a wide variety of activities. A short list includes writing stories or poetry, embroidering or crocheting, making pottery, cooking, baking, gardening, drawing, painting, sewing, making jewelry, making fragrant soaps or lotions, composing or performing music, or learning a new instrument. You can probably think of other things that you could devote your creative spark to.
And don’t say you’re just not creative. Coming from a family of artists, I never thought of myself as having artistic ability in that way, but I’ve come to realize that we’re all artists in our own way. We can be creative thinkers, communicators, problem solvers, or risk takers. Anything we do that puts our mark on the world is our way of being creative.
So here are five tips that may help you get your creativity flowing in whatever type of endeavor you choose:
Think of something that you’ve always wanted to try … and try it!
Make it social. If you’re just starting out, get help from a friend, or learn how to do it together. If it’s something you already do and both of you enjoy, do it together.
Experiment. If you’re already good at something, there are always new methods you can try that could expand your skills and horizons.
Take a break. Nourish your creative mind by getting outside, taking a walk, having a snack, talking with a friend, or doing anything that allows you to step away and gain a new perspective.
Don’t judge yourself. Remember, it’s all about YOUR creative expression, not someone else’s view of perfection. So don’t compare yourself to anyone else.
Most importantly, find something that gives you joy, and have fun! You will be accomplishing something that is truly unique to YOU.