How to Stay Creative When Life Gets in the Way
Posted Friday February 19th, 2016 by Gia Manalio-Bonaventura in Creativity + Art.
You could definitely be the next Adele or J.K. Rowling … if you weren’t so super busy. Maybe you’ll get back to your projects this weekend, or after the big presentation at work is over. However, it’s starting to seem like one of your worst fears has been realized: Life is getting in the way of your creativity.
The Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines “creativity” as the process by which new ideas, stories, etc., are created. While many of us tend to limit that definition to artistic endeavors, everything we do is an art form in one way or another. Steve Jobs tells us:
Creativity is just connecting things. When you ask creative people how they did something, they feel a little guilty because they didn't really do it, they just saw something. It seemed obvious to them after a while. That's because they were able to connect experiences they've had and synthesize new things.
So before you give up on your muse, here are some tips that will allow you to foster your creativity in a non-stop lifestyle.
Pay attention. Inspiration is everywhere, and you never know how an idea for a project will present itself. So pay a little more attention to everything that is going on around you. In “On Writing: A Memoir of the Craft,” Stephen King says, “Your job isn't to find these ideas but to recognize them when they show up.”
Network. Creativity is contagious so surround yourself with creative people. There are a number of creative networking opportunities online, and coworking spaces — such as The Grove in New Haven, Workbar in Boston, Hive in Vancouver, and WeWork in Chicago — often hold events where you can go and meet other visionaries and “talk shop.”
Make time for creating. Even if you can’t work on your big projects, do some small ones. Or take advantage of downtime for some no-pressure doodling, strategizing or free writing. Don’t worry so much about the end product; just keep the creative juices flowing and don’t invite your inner critic.
Put your creativity to work. Remember, creative isn’t something you do; it’s something you are. There are countless numbers of career paths available for pioneering minds. Plus, new and innovative ideas are in demand in every position, so don’t be shy about showing off how resourceful you can be.
No more excuses. Go out there and flex those creative muscles wherever you can. The opportunities to do so are endless.
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