Starting a Creative Journey

We can look to creativity as the driving factor for expression, and before you say “I’m not creative” we should establish that being creative is not a synonym for extremely talented, it simply means using your mind and imagination to create.

Letting your mind flow freeform through ink, paint, movement, breathwork, dance, or sound: that is the point of expression. 

What you create or do might not make the most sense to others but that is not the point in this case. Instead focus on your own process, this is your outlet for your emotions and the only person it has to make sense to is yourself. The goal would be to find a vessel to help guide you through your emotions when you just can’t seem to find the words. 

Personally, I like to have different outlets for different cases: 

On days where I feel particularly “out of control”: 

• I go for a long run or jump rope session.

• I use what I’m feeling as the “gasoline” to my engine, and will go until my emotions no longer feel overwhelming. 

On days where I feel sluggish or low on motivation: 

• I like to take a fruit and glass of water and find a sunny spot to stretch in and do breathing exercises. 

• This really boosts my mood up enough to get the ball rolling for an initial task. 

Finally, on days where I feel distant or incapable:

•  I write poetry or paint using colors that seem appropriate. 

• Ultimately, there is no “best” way to express ourselves, it comes down to personal opinion and what works for you.

I encourage you all to find multiple ways to express yourselves. In doing this you might find it easier to preserve relationships, build confidence, and begin to improve your general mood.