Summer is always a busy time for me. I love getting out and about, visiting new places in the UK and Europe, which means I hardly spend any time on the computer.
This is the time when I collect new perspectives, information, impressions and ideas.
I discover new books, cities and landscapes, art, crafts, snippets of history in museums and so much more.
Travel for me is always a journey of self-discovery, again and again, and there is no need to travel far, as long as it's somewhere new and different, inviting a sense of adventure and wonder into my life.
And when I get back home, my garden needs attention as it's growing like crazy at this time of year:
While I love listening to the birds in the garden, I also enjoy listening to an audiobook while doing the weeding.
So, the other day I finished listening to Elizabeth Gilbert's Big Magic: Creative Living beyond Fear, and it made me think that we all live creative lives in one way or another.
Making the most of what life has on offer is simply living creatively - going with the flow, taking risks, changing one's mind, being spontaneous, and responding to the unexpected.
We need to be creative in the workplace - how to deal with people, rectify mistakes, respond to challenges - and then there are the hobbies we enjoy pursuing in our spare time.
We always create something - not just "things" but also atmosphere, energy, and even feelings and emotions.
So, if you think you're not a creative person, then think again.
You are creative every minute of your day, you are simply not always aware of it, like when you cook a meal, clean the house, or go for a walk.
According to Elizabeth Gilbert, you can live a more fulfilling life by cultivating tiny habits that boost your creativity, from experiencing everyday magic to taking small steps towards writing a book, creating art, or starting a small business. Anything that floats your boat.
Be aware that you are by nature a creative being. Take a moment to think about how you are already applying your creativity in your everyday life.
You can start a creative project at any time and any age. Don't put lame obstacles in your way.
Have the courage to set aside your fears, self-doubt and excuses. You are good enough to make a start. Follow your creative impulses to experience joy rather than the need to prove anything to anyone.
Don't overthink or plan too much ahead. You don't need to see the whole map to take the first step.
There's also no need to be perfect. Getting something done is better than trying to perfect it over a long time only to lose enthusiasm and abandon it eventually.
Get that website published. You can always change the colour scheme later.
Publish those blog posts, you can edit them once they're online. It's okay if they are somewhat flawed.
Just get it done and build on that. The urge to be perfect can easily kill creativity. Simply enjoy the process.
As you continue with your chosen art, you will learn and grow, and realise that perfection is overrated.
Don't be tempted to put your creativity under pressure to earn you a living. That's another killer. Instead, treat it as a hobby, a passion, perhaps even an obsession. All good.
It's fine to keep your day job while you explore and develop your talents and skills.
Persist in your efforts. Keep going. Stay committed to your creative practice over the long term.
Last but not least, follow your curiosity. Be curious about the world. Learn and try out different things, be open-minded, visit new places.
Follow the clues like a recommendation, a chance meeting, a book that caught your eye in a bookshop or library, or respond to an enticing job advert. Seek out wonder.
Explore topics, hobbies or ideas that intrigue you, even if they don’t seem directly related to your main creative pursuit.
See where your curiosity and all those stepping-stone clues take you. Perhaps you will find a new passion along the way, but if you don't, at least you will live a rich and interesting life.
Simple Living: In my latest post on Medium I've written about how your mindset can set you free
Currently Reading: The Tennant of Wildfell Hall by Anne Brontë - the story of a single mum in 19th century England trying to make ends meet. Could have been written today, which proves that 200-year-old classics are truly timeless. I love this novel for the mystery and wonderfully dramatic turns of events.
Recent audiobook I loved: A Year of Living Simply: The Joys of a Life Less Complicated by Kate Humble - a relaxing, inspiring book read by the author, it is a heartfelt and inspiring meditation on the benefits of stepping back and reprioritizing to lead a happier, more fulfilling life.
Wellbeing: Throughout our adult years, we need to keep training our balance to avoid debilitating falls when we get older. Some simple exercises every day that are part of our regular activities (like putting on socks) can help to sustain our balance. Check out this video and make a start today (it's never too late!): Your socks may hold the key to aging better
Travel magic: During my recent trip to Bath (check out my Notes), I visited the Persephone Bookshop and stocked up on some books:
Never thought I'd be interested in 20th-century feminist writings, but I just followed the clues (recommendations) and must admit I'm delighted with the short stories collection I keep dipping into during the day.
Currently watching: Simon Stalenhag is one of my favourite visual storytellers, so I was thrilled to discover Tales from the Loop on Amazon Prime, a quiet, eerie, hauntingly thought-provoking sci-fi series that will want you to further explore Stalenhag's dystopian yet fascinating world.
Current favourite thing: When I recently accidentally smashed my beloved owl mug, it made me sad, so I decided to find a new owl mug, but I wanted it to be second-hand and made in England. I was delighted to find this Emma Bridgewater design on Ebay. Happiness restored 😂
⭐Visit my UK online shop for affordable pre-loved tarot books & decks and handmade journals⭐
Until next time,
PS: The image “Play” at the top is from my Powerful Me oracle deck, which you can download on my Patreon.
Comments
Nothing yet. Say the first thing.
Sign in to join the conversation.