Discovering Your Own Personal Creative Process: 10 Tips to Unearthing Your Creativity

Creativity is a marvellous, elusive beast, isn’t it? One moment, you’re brimming with ideas, the next, you're staring at a blank page, wondering where all the inspiration went. Yet, discovering your own personal creative process can transform your creative struggles into a joyous, fulfilling journey bringing you greater focus, motivation and purpose. Here are 10 tips to help you unearth and embrace your unique creative process, making creativity an integral part of your daily life.

And for those that feel reluctant to ‘be creative’ or don’t see themselves as creative take a look at a previous blog of mine ‘Did you know, we are all creative?’

Discovering your own personal creative process is a deeply rewarding journey. It’s about finding what works best for you, embracing your unique quirks, and giving yourself the freedom to explore and experiment. By creating a dedicated space, setting aside time, and seeking inspiration everywhere, you can nurture your creativity and make it an integral part of your life. Remember, there’s no right or wrong way to be creative. It’s all about finding joy in the process and trusting that each step brings you closer to your creative potential. So, go ahead—dive in, experiment, and discover the magic of your own creative process.

1. Embrace Your Uniqueness

First things first, recognise that your creative process is uniquely yours. There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to a creative process. Some people find inspiration in the chaos, others in calm. The key is to embrace your personal quirks and preferences. Do you work best in the early morning or late at night? Do you need complete silence or background noise? Understanding these personal inclinations will set the foundation for your creative journey.

2. Create a Dedicated Space or Place

Having a dedicated creative space can make a world of difference. It doesn’t have to be a fancy studio; a cosy nook in your living room or comfy chair; or a favourite walk or bus journey. The idea is to have a place where you feel comfortable and inspired. Fill your senses with things that spark joy and creativity. 

3. Set Aside Time

Life gets busy, but setting aside dedicated time for creative activities is crucial. Whether it’s 15 minutes a day or a few hours a week, scheduling time specifically for creativity ensures that you prioritise it. Treat this time as sacred and allow yourself the freedom to explore and experiment without pressure.

4. Experiment with Different Mediums

Don’t limit yourself to one medium. Experimenting with different forms of creativity can uncover new passions and inspire fresh ideas. The goal is to break free from your usual routines and discover new ways to express yourself.

5. Seek Inspiration Everywhere

Inspiration can be found in the most unexpected places. Take a walk in nature, visit a museum, listen to different genres of music, or read books outside your usual interests. Pay attention to the world around you and allow yourself to be curious. Often, the best ideas come when you’re not actively searching for them but simply observing and absorbing your surroundings.

6. Embrace Failure

Fear of failure can stifle creativity. Remember, creative person or innovator has faced setbacks. Embrace failure as part of the creative process. Each mistake is a learning opportunity, guiding you closer to your true creative path. Don’t be afraid to take risks and try new things, even if they don’t work out as planned. It’s all part of the journey.

7. Practice Mindfulness

Mindfulness can enhance your creative process by helping you stay present and focused. Techniques like meditation, deep breathing, or yoga can quiet the mind and create space for creativity to flourish. Being mindful allows you to connect more deeply with your thoughts and emotions, which can be a rich source of inspiration.

8. Connect with a Creative Community

Surrounding yourself with like-minded individuals can be incredibly motivating. Sharing your work, receiving feedback, and collaborating with others can provide fresh perspectives and encouragement. Plus, it’s reassuring to know that others are on a similar journey, facing similar challenges and triumphs.

9. Keep a Creative Journal

A creative journal can be a valuable tool for capturing ideas, reflections, and progress. Use it to jot down thoughts, sketch, or record snippets of inspiration. Regular journaling can help you track your creative journey, identify patterns, and reflect on your growth. It’s also a safe space to explore ideas without judgement.

10. Trust the Process

Finally, trust in your creative process. It’s easy to get discouraged or impatient, especially when progress seems slow. But creativity is not a linear path. It’s a dynamic, evolving process that requires patience and perseverance. Trust that each step, no matter how small, is contributing to your overall growth. Celebrate your achievements, no matter how minor they may seem, and keep moving forward.