Creativity Isn’t Just a Gift, It’s a Daily Decision

Most of us think of creativity as a trait—something a few lucky people are born with. But here’s a truth that may surprise you: creativity isn’t a magical spark reserved for artists, musicians, or designers. It’s a choice. A practice. A way of engaging with the world—and with ourselves.

Whether you're navigating stress, feeling emotionally blocked, or looking for meaning during a time of political tension, making space for creativity in your everyday life can be transformative. And the science backs this up.

This blog explores how creativity works, why we often hold ourselves back, and how to build a life that supports consistent creative expression. The good news? You don’t need to feel inspired to get started. You just need to start.

Creativity Requires Action, Not Just Ideas

It’s easy to confuse creativity with imagination, but the real power of creativity lies in what we do with our ideas.

Think of Claude Monet, who painted the Rouen Cathedral not once but dozens of times, capturing the play of light across different times of day. His genius wasn’t in imagining the idea—it was in showing up with a paintbrush day after day. Creativity becomes meaningful when it’s translated into something tangible: a conversation, a poem, a new solution at work, or even a reorganized kitchen cabinet.

If you have ideas sitting in your head but aren’t acting on them, you’re not alone. Many of us get stuck at the starting line.

Why We Struggle to Get Started

Starting something creative is often harder than it looks. That’s because we bump into two major roadblocks: risk and confidence.

1. The Risks of Creating

Creativity comes with psychological risks. You might worry:

• What if I’m not good enough?

• What if people judge me?

• What if I fail and waste time?

These thoughts are totally normal. In fact, research shows creative people aren’t necessarily fearless—they’re just better at tolerating discomfort. They’ve learned to take action despite the uncertainties.

2. Confidence Comes Later

Another major block is the belief that you need full confidence before you begin. But confidence isn’t a prerequisite—it’s a byproduct of starting.

You only need enough courage to take that first small step. Write one paragraph. Sketch one idea. Brainstorm one new approach at work. That tiny action builds momentum—and with momentum comes confidence.

Also, if someone you trust (a mentor, a friend, a teacher) believes in your potential, listen. People often see strength in us that we haven’t recognized yet. That external validation, when internalized, can fuel your creative journey.

Staying Creative Over the Long Haul

Creativity isn’t a one-time event. To make it part of your life—especially in stressful times—you need more than ideas. You need tools. Here are five key insights from research that can help:

1. Passion Is Grown, Not Found

You don’t need to wait for a “calling.” Try different things, stay curious, and let interest deepen over time. Passion is something you cultivate, not something you discover like buried treasure.

2. Constraints Can Be Helpful

It’s tempting to think we need endless freedom to be creative. But often, limitations spark originality. Whether it’s a time limit, a budget cap, or emotional fatigue, boundaries can actually inspire more unique solutions.

3. Start with the Problem

Creative breakthroughs often come from how we frame the problem, not just how we solve it. That’s why the most successful creatives spend more time exploring questions, identifying gaps, and challenging assumptions before jumping to ideas.

4. Emotions Are Fuel

Don’t ignore your feelings—especially the uncomfortable ones. Emotions can become powerful sources of inspiration. A teacher noticing student burnout might redesign the curriculum. A parent overwhelmed by clutter might invent a new family routine.

Instead of pushing your emotions aside, ask: What is this feeling trying to tell me? That awareness could lead to your next idea.

5. Creative Blocks Are Manageable

When you hit a wall, don’t panic. Understand that emotions like frustration or self-doubt are part of the process. Learning how to manage them (through mindfulness, breaks, or talking it out) helps you stay grounded and keep moving forward.

Turning One-Time Ideas into a Creative Life

So, how do we go from “I did something creative once” to “I live a creative life”?

The answer lies in relationships and environment.

1. Who You Talk to Matters

If you want to think differently, talk to people outside your usual circle. Distant connections—like a friend of a friend or a former colleague—can bring fresh perspectives that shake up your thinking.

But when you’re developing an idea, lean into your close circle. These are the people who know you, believe in you, and can help refine your vision without dismissing it.

2. Your Environment Speaks Volumes

If your workplace, home, or social setting discourages new ideas—whether by shutting down conversations or overvaluing perfection—you’ll naturally play small. Creative spaces are ones where experiments are welcomed, mistakes are allowed, and support is present.

If you’re a leader, how you respond to ideas matters. When someone shares a rough thought and you instantly say, “That won’t work,” you may be blocking their potential. Instead, try responding with curiosity: “Tell me more about that.”

Creativity During Stressful Times

Let’s be honest—creativity can feel like a luxury during election season or national tension. You might think, I don’t have time for that right now. But this is when creativity becomes most vital.

In moments of overwhelm, creativity is a form of emotional regulation. It’s not about making something perfect—it’s about reclaiming a sense of agency and reconnecting with meaning.

Whether you’re writing, cooking, building, or problem-solving, creativity can:

• Reduce anxiety

• Improve focus

• Strengthen relationships

• Deepen your sense of purpose

What’s Your Next Creative Choice?

The next time you feel stuck, uninspired, or afraid of failing—remember this: you don’t have to wait for creativity to show up. You can choose it.

Even if it’s just five minutes a day, give yourself permission to act on your ideas. Take a photo. Draft an outline. Try a new recipe. Make a list. Rearrange your space. Start small and keep choosing again tomorrow.

You Don’t Have to Do It Alone

If political tension, burnout, or emotional stress is making it hard to be creative—or to simply function—know that support is available.

Walk With Me Counseling Center is here to help if you're overwhelmed by election stress or political disagreements. We offer virtual therapy sessions across Illinois, so support is just a click away no matter where you are—whether in Chicago or another part of the state.

Complete Your Intake Form today and take the first step toward protecting your mental health during this intense election season.

Your mental well-being should be your top priority, especially during an election as heated as this one. Don't let political stress strain your relationships or leave you feeling emotionally blocked. Whether you're in Chicago or elsewhere in Illinois, we're here to help you process, heal, and stay grounded.