Ever wonder how some people seem to have twice as much free time as you do?
Here's the secret...
Creating intuitively is definitely an iceberg or an underwater cave or something. There are so many different tunnels and aspects to explore, each one different but all a part of the greater whole. I'll write plenty of posts on this subject, but finding the time to create is where I want to start. This is where everyone should start. Let's go!
“There are so many different tunnels and aspects to explore, each one different but all a part of the greater whole."
Like anything else, creating takes practice. My voice teacher in college used to say that each person has an ideal voice. Maybe yours is a square shape or a circle or a triangle, but you start with a splat like someone threw putty at the wall. So we pull a little over here, adjust a little over there, all trying to work towards that ideal shape, that ideal voice.
That's what you do as a creative.
It's not about getting it right
Because there's no such thing as right. Every person has a different voice that needs to be heard, so let's throw out any and all comparisons. Start with yourself.
If you struggle with inconsistency, then maybe it's time to push yourself a little bit. I think a lot of people associate creating with this angelic spirit of inspiration that possesses you when the time is right for you to paint or write or whatever.
I'll tell you right now, that angel does not exist.
Do I hear whispers? Yes.
But the hard work is all me. And it can be all you too. Accept that people who do a lot of different things aren't blessed with some angel of inspiration. They just DO those things.
“There are so many different tunnels and aspects to explore, each one different but all a part of the greater whole."
And the only one stopping you from doing them too is you.
I teach classes for 55+ artists where I work, and the most frustrating thing about it is that my students generally aren't very happy. I know why they're there. They've spent the last 40 years working, raising children, keeping the house in order - all so they can hit that magical ideal time in their lives when suddenly they'll have time to do everything they want. Finally they'll paint and receive accolades for their visionary work, they'll be put up for awards for their touching, magnificent memoir of a life well-lived.
But that's not what happens.
They finally feel like they have time to be everything they wanted to be, but it doesn't work like that. They're trying to be weight-lifting champions with a muscle they've never worked. And they get frustrated. And they get mad. And I don't blame them.
Tips for finding time (and making time)
Go to your phone settings and click Screen Time. Spend some time in this area. Check out the average amount of time you spend on your phone per day. See what apps you're using. Ask yourself: I spend an average of 4 hours a day on my phone - what do I have to show for it?
Cut out the things that aren't as important. We all need down time. I'm not suggesting you delete Hulu (that would be ridiculous. Who would watch Harlots for me??). I'm suggesting that you are conscientious about what time is needed down time and what time is wasted time.
Be methodical. Don't hop from laundry to painting to dishes to writing. Put the laundry in while you're doing dishes, put the clothes away, then pick a creative thing and stick to it. Your brain will thank you.
Because here's the thing - no one's going to find time for you. To me, a true artist is someone that practices regularly all their lives, not someone who tries to shove all their creativity in at once. It's a lifelong muscle. Work it!
Do you have any tips for finding time to create? Let me know in the comments below!