Last year, my creativity took a whooping. I wrote about it, was inspired by others', read about it, made notes about it and even dreamed about it. In other words, I did everything but make time for it in my life.
On the other hand, life was a bit rough for my family. My mother's health declined considerably, my younger son was diagnosed with a mood disorder, and my older son started high school. But hey, why not me? Life happens. The challenge is how to work with it and allow creativity to flourish and nurture us especially during tough times.
But I am tired of getting my butt kicked by life, so here's my plan:
- Balance structure with non-structure. I've joined Susan Sorrell of the Fiber Arts/Mixed Media group in playing with a new art technique every month. I've got technique books about everything from creating chain mail jewelry to paper yarn. So I think I can come up with some new things to try.
- Get out more. I will be leading a creative workshop I'm calling "Make Yourself at Home" during Mother's Day weekend (May 7-9). As much as I'm thrilled to be part of this weekend retreat, I'm just as excited to be away for a weekend -- sans family. I can't think of a better Mother's Day gift, 'cause Mama does need her space sometimes.
- Shout it out! I tend to hold my creative projects pretty close to home. I don't know whether it's that I've got so much going on that I'm embarrassed to look so scattered and crazy, or whether I'm just too insecure to share. Maybe it's a bit of both. Regardless, I think I'll start showing and telling my own story more.
- Finish stuff. My finishing energy doesn't even come close to the high of starting something new. It's no wonder that I've got a lot of unfinished projects in the closet. It's time to get excited about completions and not just beginnings. I'll need some good luck with this one, but I'll give it a shot.
(Photo courtesy of Evil Erin.)
Welcome back. So glad to see you're blogging again! I'm excited to read about your creative workshop. What a great weekend retreat for you. YEAH!
Posted by: Sonja Chevere | January 13, 2010 at 12:32 AM
I have a problem with startitis, too, but your attitude toward everything sounds really positive, so I'm looking forward to what you do with your creativity this year!
Posted by: del | January 13, 2010 at 12:20 PM
I'm so thrilled you'll be doing that workshop for our retreat this May! I agree, it's a GREAT mother's day gift to yourself (and to those who will be experiencing your workshop).
Posted by: Wendy Fedan | January 13, 2010 at 02:58 PM
I have a problem with enjoying starting things ... but finishing not so much, not that I don't like having the finished items, I do like that ... its the getting there I don't do well with! 2010 for me is going to be about focused crafting, and not starting too many things at the same time, so we're in the same boat, welcome aboard!
Posted by: Angela | January 13, 2010 at 07:22 PM
Angela, I love the idea of focused crafting. Well said.
Unfortunately, lots of crafters have startitis.
Posted by: L'Tanya | January 14, 2010 at 08:58 AM