Way #12 Music and Singing
Way #13 Creative Expression
“Happiness lies in the joy of achievement and the thrill of creative effort.” Franklin D. Roosevelt
We are all naturally creative beings, whether we recognize it in ourselves or not. Some of us are more innately inclined to express ourselves through various artistic means, while others emit their creative energy in different and maybe less traditional ways. It is not as black and white as identifying as either “right-brained” (intuitive, thoughtful, subjective) or “left-brained” (logical, analytical, objective) dominant. Those who label themselves as non-creative are committing a major and potentially joy-inhibiting misnomer.
The beauty of creative expression is that there is no right or wrong. Your creativity is completely personal to you. This is something that comes from your inner most self and that cannot be taken away. For those of us who identify as openly creative individuals, you probably already recognize and reap the benefits of having a creative outlet. Creative expression might come very easily to you. Keep doing what you are doing! For those who have previously labeled themselves as not artistic, uncreative, and strictly right-minded, this article is more specifically geared toward you!
Regularly engaging in some sort of creative activity has a long list of benefits and noticeable effects. For most of us, our daily lives are filled to the brim with all different types of responsibilities and commitments. We make and tackle extensive lists. We carry worries, stresses, and anxieties with us to bed. We are non-stop and impressive beings, but there will always be a breaking point. Think of finding a creative outlet as your release valve.
Without a release valve, you can imagine what could potentially happen over an extended period of time. In combination with the previous ten proven ways to joy, adding a creative component only further increases your brain’s naturally ability to produce the necessary biochemicals that are linked to long lasting happiness. Any form of creative expression can prove to be therapeutic.
You can even be creative about choosing a creative outlet. Aside from some of the more traditional forms, such as painting, drawing, producing music, capturing photographs, and writing, activities like cooking, doing yoga, dancing, singing, building models, and making homemade household products are all forms of creative expression too. You can add a creative twist to most activities. The idea is to engage in something that uplifts your spirit, allows you to let go your daily preoccupations, and gives you the opportunity to let your mind flow freely and with peace.
Creativity is subjective. There is no right or wrong way to express yourself creatively. There is a great beauty and comfort in this realization and acceptance. You can literally choose anything and do it however you want to do it. Somewhere within each and every one of us is a kaleidoscope of creative energy just waiting to be released. Let that part of you out and feel the surge of joy that will follow.
“If you hear a voice within you say, ‘You cannot paint,’ then by all means paint and that voice will be silenced.” Vincent van Gogh
Thanks for sharing a smile with us this week.