One of the biggest parts about myself I miss since becoming a mom is being able to create when I feel inspired (hello adhd brain over here – so hyperfocus is a thing!). In the past version of myself, I could dive into a project when I felt inspired by a new idea. I could hit up the craft store and lay out all the pieces on my living room floor. Delve into that creative halloween costume or cute home decor that I saw on Pinterest.
Since having kids, the opportunity for spontaneity (and for the way my brain works, creativity) has gone down quite a bit. It is a part of myself that I mourn sometimes. BUT I also explore ways that I can tap into my creative expression, either with the kids or on my own, that fits into the flow of my current. And I find that when I can honor that feminine flow state that comes with diving into creative expression, I feel I am honoring a piece of myself that is important.
So whether you are a mom, a full time working human, or just super busy, lets explore ways we can tap into creative expression and some ideas for you to plan to do for yourself!
Tips for Tapping into Creative Expression:
- Strike while the iron is hot! even if that means altering your project to fit in the timeline and resources you have available to you in the moment. It can be so great to feel the pull of inspiration and see the project through. Be realistic with yourself about how much time and energy you can dedicate to this project.
- Save your inspo! Create a pinterest board of ideas that inspire you so that when you find time to schedule self care in for yourself, you can pull from a resource of ideas that at one point sparked your interest.
- Let everything flow! If you are feeling stuck, try getting yourself into a flow state. This can be done by starting with a stream of consciousness writing – continue to write and not pick up your pen for 5 minutes. Just let come out what comes need to come out. Or grab a paint brush and just keep the brush moving, releasing any judgment or expectation. Music can also be a great tool to help get into the flow state.
- Let go of Judgment! It can be so hard to release expectations of how we want our project to be, but try to remember that we are really here for the process and not the result. If you find yourself having thoughts of judgment (e.g “ugh, this is not turning out well”) refocus your mind to the physical sensations of creating. Remind yourself that the time you put into creating is what is satisfying your flow and not the end result.
Ideas for Creative Projects:
- Create a (non-traditional) Self Portrait – Who are you and what aspects of yourself do you love to embody? Put that energy and intention into a painting. This is an opportunity to get creative! Maybe you look in a mirror and paint, or maybe you explore your essence in color and shapes. There is not right answer here! Explore ways to embody you through painting.
- Create a Mandala – Mandalas are beautiful creations that have repetitive patterns starting from a central middle point and moving outward. This can be done with multiple mediums, your imagination is the limit!
- Collage – Ask yourself what themes have been coming up in your life and them grab some scissors and a magazine. Say yes to cutting out anything that speaks to you and let the image come together via a collage on paper.
- Find Movement – Sometimes the easiest way to get out of a funk and to get unstuck is to move. This can be a good starting practice to getting into the creative flow or this can be the whole experience! Turn on that music loud and let your body find the rhythm it needs to move to.
Closing Thoughts
Your magic is still inside you. If things have shifted in your schedule or inspiration, just know that you can find your path back to creative expression. Take the time you need, explore new ways of tapping in, and be patient with yourself. Because you are worth it.