Finding Your Creativity
Words by Laura Beaver // Image by Heidi Drexler
There is one small talk question that will stump me every time: “What are your hobbies?” or “What do you like to do for fun?” Even before I became a mother and now a working mother, I never had a solid answer to this question. I enjoy reading, but I usually fall asleep after 5 to 10 pages, no matter the book. I work out often, but that feels more like a stress relief and health habit than a fun way to spend my time. Beyond that, I never feel like I had the time or energy for hobbies, but I longed for them. Here is the real issue why I never had a solid answer to this question though: I told myself for decades that I’m just not creative.
Have you ever told yourself that? I think because we often lump creativity into a category that requires a natural talent for traditional arts, many of us, myself included, believe that we don’t have the ability to be creative. I began to realize over time that was a lie though. And last year I set out to figure out how I can connect more with my creativity. Here’s what I learned and how you can do the same:
1. Everyone thinks their creative work is “bad.”
Did you know even professional artists of every kind aren’t always satisfied with their creative work? Everyone, at some point in time, does not believe their creativity is worthwhile. This was a shock to me. It helped me to move past the belief that things I make are just no good.
2. Think outside the box.
It took me some time before I realized that I could be creative beyond drawing or painting. Cooking an elaborate meal is a form of expression. Designing a garden can utilize creative thought. Decorating your living room is creative. Appreciating beauty in the world is a form of creativity. Even journaling or coloring with your children can spark this side of your being.
3. Try some new things and remember it is okay to not know what you are doing.
It might take awhile and more than a few different things, but don’t give up. You will eventually find something that you get lost in and enjoy immensely.
4. It is okay if the goal is simply being creative.
Too often we feel the need to monetize or have a purpose to our creativity or hobbies. There are countless stories about folks who started businesses out of hobbies, which is fantastic, but that does not have to be your goal. When I set out on my journey to discover my creativity, this was really important for me to remember. I can learn to bake the perfect loaf of sourdough bread, but it doesn’t mean I have to open a bakery. I can do it for myself, my family, my friends, my neighbors or just because I feel like doing it with no larger goal in mind.
5. Make time to do the things that bring you joy.
Turn off the TV. Put down the phone. Spend even just 10 minutes doing something creative. It’s worth it.
So practically what does this mean for me? My journey to finding creativity in everyday life took time. I found, however, that it made me more joyful and more relaxed. It is now a part of my regular routine. I find ways to connect to things and create things of beauty and joy each week. Here is my personal weekly list:
- Spend time outside every day, even if it means a 5-10 minute walk.
- Garden and take care of houseplants.
- Make one large meal a week completely from scratch. I love to cook, but hate making dinner. Making a big Sunday meal is the perfect end to a weekend for me.
- Read or write every day, even if it is just for 5 minutes.
- Work on watercolors once a week. I am taking an online watercolor for beginners class. It is really fun! And with online classes you can go at your own pace and do it when it works for you.
- I also joined our botanical gardens and made a list of trails I want to hike this year. I blocked off one afternoon a month to either visit the garden or go hiking.
I likely won’t ever have things hanging in a museum or start a business from my creative endeavors. I am not looking for fame or glory through expressing myself. I’m looking to grow, to feel free, to learn more about myself, and to practice trying new things. It is completely worth every moment.
About the Author:
Laura is a wife to her husband, Matt, of 12 years and a mom of four. Like many other women she knows, she struggled to figure who she is in the midst of constant life changes that parenting, marriage, and working bring. She founded Courage & Community out of that struggle. Courage & Community exists to help women step out of isolation and into a community of encouragement and support. Through connections developed online and in-person, we strive to show that you are never alone in life.
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