Do You Have to Make Art to be Creative?
That question changed everything for the women I work with.
Creativity isn’t something you have to earn. It isn’t about talent, output, or even making art.
It’s a part of who you are. You were wired for it from the beginning.
But if you’ve been through seasons of caregiving, survival, transition, or just day-to-day life, it makes sense if creativity feels far away right now.
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You are Creative
As I continue to build my podcast, I’ve been doing some deep reflection on my mission and what drives me to create, share, and encourage others. Why? Why spend all of this time and expend the effort…especially as an introvert?
In the midst of all the technical details, the "have-tos," and the learning curve that comes with launching something big and new, I found myself feeling off track and questioning my direction and purpose.
I got caught up in the logistics and lost sight of why I started this in the first place.
I began to wonder, "What am I doing? Why am I doing this? What makes me different from the thousands of other voices out there talking about creativity?"
Why me? Why now? Why here?
But then Steve (my very sensible and encouraging husband) and I went out for a coffee date, and we had a long talk about getting back to the core of what this is all about for me. Separate from followers, algorithms, social media, expectations and more.
What am I really here to do? What’s my true purpose? What would I do everyday if I could do anything at all?
The answer came quickly and effortlessly, which isn’t always the case for someone who has spent years doubting their own logical decisions and thoughts.
I would help people find and use the act of creativity to heal, enrich and enhance their lives.
…and then the bonus would be helping them pay it forward to share what they learned and discovered with others.
Have you ever asked yourself that same question?
A Lifelong Creative Spirit
For as long as I can remember, I’ve created with wild abandon, never second-guessing my own creative self-expression. I grew up assuming everyone was like that, that everyone had access to this expressive part of themselves. For me, creativity has always been there, just a foundational component of my being.
I was incredibly fortunate to have parents and people around me who fostered that and encouraged me to explore it fully. But as I’ve grown older, I’ve come to realize that not everyone has had that nurturing experience.
Many people have had their creativity blocked or buried over time.
For some, it was never nurtured to begin with.
For others, it’s been lost or diluted along the way.
And that’s where my mission comes in because it’s never too late to change that.
To Inspire, Encourage, and Empower Creative Expression
If you’ve been feeling the pull to be creative, but don’t know where to start…
I made something for you. ❤️
It’s called 12 Creative Acts That Don’t Involve Making Art.
Because creativity doesn’t have to mean painting, drawing, crochet, ceramics, embroidery or producing anything physical at all.
This is about tuning back in to your creative self, right where you are, with what you already have.
There’s no pressure. Just a gentle place to begin. These creative acts don’t require you to pick up a paintbrush or write a single word.
At the heart of everything I do - whether it’s my newsletter, my podcast, or the stories and projects I share, it is a singular mission:
I want to inspire, encourage, and empower YOU to express yourself creatively.
I believe that creativity is your birthright. You were born a creative soul. It’s already inside of you, even if it’s been forgotten or pushed aside. And there is no “one way” to be creative.
If you feel like you’ve lost touch with that part of yourself or you’ve never fully explored it, my mission is to help you.
Start with one act on the list. Start small.
They’re quiet, powerful ways to reconnect with your imagination, curiosity, and self-expression.
Press Play and listen while you move, fold or wander:
In this solo podcast episode, I’m exploring what it means to be a creative observer and how showing up for the arts - as an audience member, supporter, or curious human - is just as powerful as making the art yourself.
Creativity through Connection.
For me, creativity has always been an effortless, joyful part of my life. It’s meditative, invigorating, and fulfilling, but it can also be a source of healing and recovery.
Through my writing, my projects, and now my podcast, I aim to show you what’s possible. I share my own experiences and stories, but more than that, I share the stories of others - people who have found ways to express themselves creatively, heal through personal expression and who inspire me with their journeys.
My hope is that these stories will inspire you, give you ideas, and help you see what’s possible in your own life. You have the power to change your reality. I will help you.
In this previous newsletter I share about how it’s never too late to find a mentor or discover a creative community to nurture your talents.
Creativity Is for Everyone
The beauty of creativity is that it’s available to everyone. No matter where you are in life, no matter how long it’s been since you felt connected to your creative side, it’s never too late to rediscover that part of yourself. Midlife is the perfect time. You are right on time.
I hope you’ll join me on this journey.
Creativity isn’t just for artists, it’s for anyone who wants to express themselves, find joy, and feel more connected to who they truly are.
Until next time,
Pam
📥 [Download your copy 12 Creative Acts That Don’t Involve Making Art of here]
I love this. As an established artist that supports my family, I can get easily side tracked into making a buck. Your post reminds to center myself and come back to why I create and teach art- to bring joy. Thank you Pam!