Simplicity and creativity. Where would we be without them?
Creativity can mean different things to different people, but for this post, I’ll be talking about creativity in the various arts.
Whenever I sit down to create something, I try to keep things as simple as possible. Often it’s the simplest things that provide the best results. Plus, if you’ve got all kinds of chaos in your life, adding more chaos just won’t do.
Here’s a simple action plan that anyone can follow that will help to give you that tiny spark you may need to ignite your creativity. Regardless of your chosen path or field.
Step 1: Why do you want to create in the first place?
This is by far the biggest question you need to ask yourself. Why? Why do you want to create anything at all? Your why will guide you through hard times, especially when things seem like they’re going nowhere. You can fall back on your why and realize that it’s all worth it. Regardless of outcome.
Step 2: Who do you want to create for?
The next piece of the puzzle is to figure out who you want to create for. Is it just for yourself? Do you intend to start a business to serve others? Do you want to create for a small audience or a big one? Just for family? Or a more global one? Figure out who and proceed to step 3. Don’t worry so much if you don’t know who you really want to create for yet. Sometimes things will come to you with time. Don’t sweat it.
Step 3: What do you want to create?
This is where you can finally decide on what to actually create. Do you want to get into photography? Writing? Painting? Underwater basket-weaving? Basket-weaving in space?
(That last one might sound funny, but that’ll be the next big thing, lol. Probably not, but who knows?)
Go with what’s in your heart and feels right to you.
Step 4: Where do you want to create from?
Do you like to sit in a nice cool quiet room with your headphones in listening to some soft instrumental music w/ rain sounds? No? Maybe it’s just me, but the point is where you want to create from is a crucial part. Whether you like to dictate writing while going on a nature walk or sit in a crowded cafe or go to the beach with a canvas and paint set, decide on your where. Once you got that, proceed on.
Step 5: When do you want to create?
Another component is figuring out when you want to create. Will it be something you do daily? Weekly? Monthly? Or simply whenever the mood strikes you? Maybe you’re the type to schedule your life down to the minute? That’s not MY cup of tea, but if it works for you go for it. Point is, try to schedule some time to create and stick to it. It can be for as long or as little as you like. Just do what works for you and your life situation.
Step 6: How do you want to create?
This is the “nuts n’ bolts” portion. The “details” if you will. Notice how it’s the last piece of the puzzle. I did this for a reason. Specifically, because you may need to get any “gunk” that may be in your mind out of there. What do I mean by gunk? Well, that’s all the negative thoughts that may pop into your head. Things like, “I’m not good enough” or “I can’t do this” or even “No one would care.”
Nothing could be further from the truth.
If I can do this. You can do this.
Besides, it’s a big world out there. Chances are, there is someone out there that would benefit from your creativity. Even if that someone is you.
Regardless, you can’t control external factors. Rather, focus on your love to create and things will fall into place.
So sit down (or stand up, lol) and try to think about the details of what you may need to create your first (or next) masterpiece. Will you need a new camera? Go for it. A new canvas and paint set? Sure. The latest and greatest app or computer? Don’t let me stop you.
Figure out your how and the next step would be to go out and do it.
Again, you can do this. This is the most important piece I can leave you with, so it bears repeating.
You. Can. Do. This.
If this has been helpful for you and would like a bit more detail, check out my free guide for creatives called (Not Another) 101 Creative Writing Prompts: A Guide to Starting Your Creative Journey.
Till next time!
Jeff Aybar is a writer, Sci-Fi/Fantasy nerd, INFJ, veteran, and all-around creative. You can get a free copy of his guide for writers and other creatives on starting the creative journey by signing up to his newsletter HERE.