“Every child is an artist, the problem is staying an artist when you grow up.” – Pablo Picasso.

Picasso’s famous words remind us that we are all creative, but most of us have forgotten. If it’s been a while since you’ve indulged your creative side, whether it’s art, craft, writing, music or any other creative pursuit that inspires you, use these five strategies to release your creative inner child.

 

1. Strict Switch-Off Times

Technology, whether it’s Facebook, Netflix or Google, robs us of precious time. In the smart phone era we now have unlimited distractions twenty-four, seven. If creative projects are important to you create ‘black-out’ times where you eliminate distractions to gain focus. It could be just an hour a day, week or fortnight where you allow your creative side to emerge by immersing yourself in a quiet, distraction-free environment. Ironically, there are Apps for lessening and monitoring your screen time, whether on your mobile or tablet. Check out Moment or Offtime.

 

2. Schedule It and Stick to It

You wouldn’t skip out on an important social or work event without an excellent reason, so take the same hard line with your creative work. Just as you commit to other activities, including work, exercise and social events, schedule creative time into your week and stick to it. It can be tempting to find distractions or excuses, but you’ll feel better about yourself if you stay true to your creative projects.

 

3. Enrol in a Class or Creative Course

If you’re feeling stuck an art class or writing course might kickstart your creativity. Value your creative pursuits and invest in yourself just as you would with professional development at work or a gym membership. The rewards may not pay off financially at first, but many a passion has turned into a lucrative business. You never know where your creativity will take you. If writing is your passion, check out The Certificate of Creative Writing  with Australian Online Courses.

 

4. Find Your Tribe

A group of like-minded people will hold you accountable and will encourage you to finish that book, painting or other creative project. It’s true what they say, there is power in numbers and the more people you have behind you the greater chance you will succeed. We all need support when the going gets tough and though Einstein said, ‘creativity is intelligence having fun,’ sometimes being creative is hard work. Think writer’s block and blank canvas anxiety. Look on community and library noticeboards or head online to find a supportive group of people who share your passion.

 

5. Create a Space

If you make a space for your creativity you can let family and friends know you are not to be disturbed unless it’s urgent. You can also create an online space for your creative outlet by setting up a blog. This is a great way to attract like-minded people to grow your network. If you’d like to make your space beautiful and productive, check out 10 Tips for a Beautiful and Productive Home Office.

 

Study Creative Writing

They say there’s at least one great novel in all of us just waiting to be released. Could yours be the next bestseller? If you have a penchant for writing this course is sure to kickstart your creative writing career.

The Introduction to Creative Writing  is an introductory professional development program that will provide you with the knowledge, skills and techniques required to create compelling fiction and creative non-fiction.

In this online creative writing course, you will discover the scope and nature of creative writing, writing methodologies and techniques, research and writing inspiration, story and character development and how to write realistic dialogue.

You will hone your creative writing skills, including how to kick-start your writing process, boost your writing confidence and learn how to develop compelling characters.

At the end of this course, you will be equipped with the knowledge and skills required to successfully distribute and sell your creative writing pieces.