5 Ways Creativity Can Enrich Your Life
Are you someone who thinks that they have “no creativity ability”? Have you said to yourself “I can’t even draw a stick-man”? So, if you think that creativity is not for you, here are 5 ways creativity can enrich your life.
Pablo Picasso said, “Every child is an artist. The problem is how to remain an artist once he grows up.” We are all born creative, but some of us forget how to be creative somewhere along the way. The Paint Republic believe everyone can be creative, no matter what our skill level is.
Being ‘good’ or ‘bad’ at art is not important; the act of being creative offers ways to enrich our everyday lives.
1) DEVELOP YOUR CREATIVE THINKING SKILLS
The process of creating can change conventional thinking, develop a fresh perspective and allows for innovation to flourish. When we allow ourselves to create and learn new information, the subconscious mind processes data in new and unexpected ways. Research shows that by deliberately placing ourselves into a new learning experience, numerous areas of the brain are able to make new connections and increase diverse cognitive processing skills. Creative intuition and the ability to make breakthrough decisions, develops when we are courageous, willing to try new experiences and step outside our comfort zone.
“We can’t solve problems by using the same kind of thinking we used when we created them.” – Albert Einstein
2) REDUCE STRESS
Picking up a paintbrush, moulding a pot, or simply colouring in and doodling are all ways that you can reduce stress. The act of creativity lowers your levels of cortisol – the stress hormone. It doesn’t stop there! Being creative also releases dopamine and endorphins that make you feel good.
A study has shown that individuals who were more creative tended to live longer. Creative people handle stress better—they tend not to get as easily flustered when faced with an emotional or physical hurdle.
“Art washes away from the soul the dust of everyday life.” – Pablo Picasso
3) IT GIVES YOU CONFIDENCE
Creativity is a fantastic way to boost your self-esteem. The enjoyable process of making art gives a sense of purpose and meaning. It teaches you to focus, and rewards you with a finished piece of work to be proud of. Art is a therapeutic form of self expression; as we create we begin to access our thoughts, and feelings. Taking the time to flex our creative muscles helps us to understand and develop our ideas. It leaves you with a sense of pride and achievement – especially if you thought you weren’t a “creative person” to begin with.
“Creativity takes courage” – Henri Matisse.
4) BE PRESENT
When was the last time you took some time for yourself that didn’t involve scrolling through your newsfeed, or binge-watching Netflix? Whether you spend 10 minutes doodling, or 2 hours painting, being creative teaches you to be in the present moment. Engaging with the creative task at hand can distract us from our worries, and focus our attention.
“Art enables us to find ourselves and lose ourselves at the same time.” – Thomas Merton
5) FREEDOM
The freedom of creativity is invigorating – return to the feeling of freedom without judgement you felt when you created and played during childhood. There’s no “right” or “wrong”, there’s no “good” or “bad”. You don’t have to be an expert to be creative. Making art is the ticket to taking risks, trying new things, and releasing our inhibitions.
“We don’t make mistakes, just happy little accidents” – Bob Ross
The Paint Republic want to inspire those who think they “aren’t creative”, and show them that THEY ARE! We want to share all these amazing benefits of making art with as many people as we can. Our paint classes are friendly, fun, and we welcome all skill levels. We provide all the materials, and a professional artist will be on hand to host, teach, and help build your creative confidence.
Creativity is within all of us! Our events aim to create a fun and relaxing atmosphere needed to unleash creativity and realise potential. What are you waiting for? Join us at our next event near you. See all our upcoming dates on our public events calendar.
See you there!
