Reframing Creativity– Part 1

by Ryane Daniels

“Creativity isn’t something you are or aren’t—it’s something you practice.”

 

While daily life can sometimes be stress-inducing, tedious, or mundane, some may believe this stifles creativity. In reality, creatives often find that structures and routines help their creativity thrive, especially when they feel stuck, scattered, or unsure how to prioritize their creative energy. Studies have shown that people who actively engage in creative pursuits feel "happier, calmer, and more energetic" than those who don't, and ultimately avoid burnout. Just like walking or cooking, creativity is a skill you nurture over time, with intention. You don't need to be an artist to be creative—you only need to be curious.

Here are some ways that a consistent routine for creative pursuits can help you:

 

 1. Routines Create a Safe Container for Creative Flow

Creativity thrives within structure. A simple routine takes care of the “when” and “how,” so your mind is free to focus on what you’re making, not logistics or guilt. It’s like setting up a cozy studio for your brain.

 

 2. They Reduce Decision Fatigue

When everything feels open-ended, the brain gets overwhelmed. A basic routine (like “sketch at 9 a.m.” or “garden walk every Sunday”) eliminates daily decision-making and protects your creative energy for the work that matters.

 

 3. They Build Trust with Yourself

Every time you show up for a small creative habit, you prove to yourself: “I take my needs, both mental, physical, spiritual, and creative needs, seriously.” This builds confidence and dissolves the impostor syndrome that often blocks progress.

 

4. Momentum Beats Motivation

You don’t have to wait for inspiration when you have a routine. Simple habits keep your mental and physical muscles active—so when inspiration does arrive, you’re already warmed up and ready to go.

5. They Make Room for Play, Rest, and Real Life

Practical routines prevent burnout. Instead of swinging between hustle and nothing, you create sustainable rhythms that allow for rest, joy, exploration, and even boredom (which sparks creativity, too!).

 

When I shifted my mindset from hustling towards launching a large creative project to instead incrementally pursuing creative tasks, through consistency, time, and effort, new perspectives and ideas emerged and deepened. I was able to reframe how I could access creativity from within through a slow and consistent creative practice that continuously breeds life and renewal. 

 

If you’re interested in unlocking your new creative potential, here are some reflective questions (that bust through your mental blocks) and help you along your journey:

 

  1. How can I structure my days to ensure time for creativity?

  2. What are the non-negotiables in my creative practice, and how can I protect them?

  3. In what ways can this creative practice support my personal and/or professional goals?

  4. How can I set boundaries to ensure my daily responsibilities don't overshadow my creative freedom?

  5. What small but meaningful creative rituals can I incorporate into my daily routine?

  6. How can I remind myself that creativity isn’t just about time—it’s also about mindset?

 

**signing off** while I dive back into my painting session. #TTFN

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