How to Fail at Being Creative

and what to do about it

The Problem

Lately, I have been at a loss for how to access my creativity and the flow of ideas that come with that. My mind? Empty. Absolutely deserted. The fix? I have no clue.

Since starting my sewing journey several years ago, I have increasingly come to rely on my own creativity. It has become apart of my identity in a way. Something I rely so heavily on that I trusted in its power enough to leave my job and pursue art and content creation full time. Honestly? I wasn’t even scared to do so. Excited-nervous and happy, but not scared.

I was starting to think that the well was not as deep as I had previously thought.

While performing course-correction, I decided to engage in my writing practice again. Something I had fallen away from because of depression (lol). Writing each day is an immense help in my art journey and something that I get a lot out of when I actually take the time to do it.

The Solution?

I think often about my daily work as a creative person and how each days work adds up to something bigger. I am capable of creating because I try and put in consistent work over time and it is only after that extended period of time that I start to see results. So how does one begin a daily creative practice that is fulfilling and meaningful?

Creativity is showing up on a consistent basis. That is why I try my best to practice the concept of Morning Pages each day. Popularized by Julia Cameron, this practice entails filling three pages each day with stream-of-conscious writing. This daily ritual not only gets my thoughts out of my brain and onto the page, it gives me a deep feeling of accomplishment that I bring throughout the rest of my day, to my art, relationship, content, and life.

Next, I try and engage in inspiring and motivating activities that have to do with the practice that I am cultivating. Since I am interested in fashion and sewing and editorial work, I read a ton of art magazines. I am also always experimenting with new and unfamiliar concepts, which helps the flow of my creativity continue. Along this journey, you are sure to run into roadblocks.

One of the most important aspects of a daily practice like this is to give yourself a bit of grace along the journey. Make sure to check in as well with yourself and make sure that the process is enjoyable to you. You should at least find satisfaction and meaning in the work. Finally, my hope is that this daily practice helps you find community that lifts you up and celebrates your work.

I think of my failure lately as an important moment in my career. I am learning to trust in my identity as a creative person and practice techniques that will help me get back on the metaphorical saddle. I hope to grow as a person each day of my life and I believe that I have the power to do so. I also believe in that same power for you as well.