6 Ideas for Fitting Creativity into Your Busy Schedule
Even if You're Short on Time
Let's be real—fitting creativity into our jam-packed days can seem nearly impossible, like trying to knit fog, right? But here's a little secret: creativity doesn't need hours of uninterrupted time to flourish. It thrives in those tiny moments, the ones we often overlook because they seem too brief to make a difference. And that’s exactly where the magic happens.
Hi there, I'm Kristin! For over two decades, I've been deep in the world of scrapbooking and creative art stuff. In the past five years, I’ve carved out a daily creative habit that sticks—through thick, thin, and everything in between. It wasn’t about finding more hours in the day or morphing into a superhuman of discipline. It was about showing up for those tiny victories, the ones that make you grin and think, "Yeah, I did that!" Those little wins? They’re game-changers. That's why I'm here to share some of my go-to tips with you—because it's the small wins that build up to big achievements.
1. Start with Baby Steps
The biggest myth about creativity? That it needs huge blocks of time to be worthwhile. Spoiler: Nope, not at all. Even 5-10 minutes can spark a creative flame. You can fit a short creative burst into your day much easier than a long session.
Think of it like this: every small step on a hike adds up. Doodling while waiting for your coffee to brew or adding a few stamps to your Daily Pages keeps the creative pulse alive. These mini-efforts are breadcrumbs leading back to your creative core, and trust me, snagging those 5 minutes feels surprisingly satisfying. It’s a small win that beckons you back time and again.
2. Blend Creativity with Your Daily Routines
Ever find yourself mindlessly scrolling through your phone? That’s a perfect slot for a creative pause. Try meshing creativity with routines you're already rocking1. While my computer boots up, I tidy my art space. It turns mundane moments into creative sparks.
3. Make Time (Yes, Really)
I hear you—scheduling more sounds like a hassle. But here’s the twist: setting aside even a sliver of time for creativity tells your brain it’s important. Think of it like an essential meeting with your notebook or art supplies. It doesn't have to be daily, just consistent. Marking it on your calendar makes it real, and honoring that time is a celebration of your commitment.
4. Keep Your Tools Handy
One major creativity killer? Not having your tools within easy reach. If you're like me, pulling out a mountain of supplies feels overwhelming. Keep your most-used items nearby, and when you need to, pack a small creative kit for on-the-go artistry.
5. Yes to Multitasking (Sometimes)
Multitasking gets a bad rap, but it can be a creative ally. Sketch on a napkin while waiting in line, jot down ideas during a dull phone call/zoom meeting, or doodle during your time in the waiting room or the pick-up line. These snippets add up, helping you explore and refine your creative process over time.
6. Stay Flexible
Life’s messy. Plans change. Some days, creativity might be off the table—and that's perfectly fine. Adaptability is key. Keep creativity in your thoughts, and when you can dive back in, focus on enjoying the process rather than catching up.
There you have it—six straightforward strategies to weave creativity into your busy, everyday life. Remember, it's not about carving out massive chunks of time; it's about recognizing and utilizing the small moments. Every little effort counts, building towards greater creative fulfillment. So, where will you start today?
Got a story or a small win to share? Drop a comment below or hit reply—I’d love to hear how you’re integrating these tips into your journey. Let's celebrate those victories together!
xoxo,
Kristin
https://jamesclear.com/habit-stacking