creativity is a need
when creativity seems ‘stuck’ you gotta figure a way forward
When the words don’t want to come, I soon discover that my other creative endeavors are stymied, too.
When I feel a block in my writing, I think to myself, “I need to stitch,” or, “I need to paint.” I gather my materials, feeling assured that the project will kickstart my writing again, only to find myself staring at my supplies. I find I’m stuck in that area, too.
The muse does not discriminate. If I am feeling resistance to writing, it’s creative resistance across the board. And this is a problem. Creativity is a need, not a want, in my world.
Fortunately, I have learned a few things from such moments. I don’t know how others do it, but they work for me.
Discipline . The thing about writing, for me, is you just do it. You just show up and start. It might be a rough start, but you generally get into gear at some point.
Running/walking outside. Probably the biggest single source of activated inspiration in my life. Meditation in motion, in nature, rain or shine. Goes hand in hand with discipline.
Nature. Just getting out in it always nurtures: breathing the air, feeling the sunshine or wind, noticing all the colors, scents, and sensations.
Permission Importantly, I must give myself permission to be creative, affirming that it is a legitimate and desirable activity for which I am perfectly qualified. I wrote a little about this topic here as well.
Permission #2. Every now and then, I also realize I need to step away for a moment because something is percolating. In those times, it is best to let go and allow the space. Good time to go for a run, huh?
Pretty simple stuff, but it works for me. Maybe you have some tricks of your own?
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Stand for Freedom
Originally published at http://verulomar.wordpress.com on August 23, 2021.
