Creativity & self-care

Self-care has many forms. It is unique to each individual’s need/definition. It is equally important to us all though. Whenever I set a new goal or maintain an ongoing goal I always prioritize self-care and how my self-care needs play a role in goal-setting (and maintaining).

One form of self-care that I truly enjoy and that makes me feel recharged is creating. Whether it’s writing, cooking, knitting, sketching, or learning about a new craft! I just feel energized during the entire creative process. Creativity is mybstress-reducer.

There have been times in my life that creativity was ignored though. I got too busy with work and responsibilities or just wasn’t feeling completely healthy and put a hold on being creative. And I noticed as soon as focused on even a minor creative outlet I felt better, I felt more like myself, I calmed racing thoughts, and reduced stress. Creativity is self-care for me. Even if I am not so good at a creative outlet, sketching for one (of many) examples, I still enjoy the process.

How do you reduce stress? Does creativity play a role in your self-care routine? What is your favorite creative outlet?

Thank you so much for reading, following, and connecting! Please take care of yourself!

This is my current creative outlet…I recently re-discovered the love for my vintage typewriter and I have been typing quotes, mantras, zodiac sign traits…and adding a wax seal to my creations. I have had requests about how to purchase them…so I created an option via paypal! Click here for more info!

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Goal setting method

I personally use a goal setting method I call the window pane. It is a layout of the goal categories I focus on (read more about those here). There is a section with this method in my goal setting journal (on sale on sale now!)

How does it work?

• Review each category and the definition:
  • Well-being – Mental and physical health; stretching, walking, meditation, conscious eating, plenty of water. Ask yourself – What are my health goals, what are my limits?
  • Spirit – Self-care, gratitude journaling, positive affirmations, create, hobbies. Ask yourself – What brings joy and peace? What nourishes me?
  • Circle – Mutual relationships that allow you to give and receive support; family, friends, work friendships, recovery groups, clubs or hobby groups. Ask yourself – Who balances with me? Who supports me and invites my support?
  • Productivity – Daily routine; work, volunteering, caregiver, budgeting, learning. Ask yourself – What is my current daily schedule (define it). What do I want my future schedule or routine to look like and consist of?

• Create four sections (or use the layout in the journal) that looks similar to a window pane. Put the title of each one category in each corner. Write out your definitions of important areas in your life for each of the categories.
  • For example for Well-being, I have noted that I miss yoga, but enjoy my daily meditation. A goal that could result from this is to sign up for yoga class or research free video options and incorporate into my daily routine.
• Review your list and ask:
  • Where can I improve?
  • What area do I connect with the most?
  • What area needs attention?
  • Which area can I focus on starting today?

Once you see the layout and can focus on the area that you connect with most you can set small steps to create your new current goal focus. Don’t get overwhelmed and think that all areas need focus at once. It all starts with one focus; one step. I sometimes keep my window pane visible where I can see it daily as a reminder of what I’m focused on and what I will take a step toward each day!

I’d love to hear what your main category focus is! Comment below or email me at successencourager@gmail.com. Find me on Instagram for daily encouragement quotes!

Thanks for reading and following; keep goaling!