I have a dear friend who is slowly but surely writing a memoir. Once in a while she will share with me her progress. Usually this conversation includes, “I really need to make time,” or “I can only write when I’m in the mood.” I once said the very same things. Now, when I hear them it’s like nails against a chalkboard. (I wonder how many of you have actually experienced this sound?!)

Why does it grate on me so? Because that kind of language can justify a person’s choice of little to no creative endeavor. I want no part in enabling people to avoid creative practice, especially in people who clearly enjoy it and want it in their lives! We all know words have power. Choose your words carefully.

“This is why you should choose your words carefully.” (Click to Tweet)

Someday, or today?

Last week I asked you to reflect on the choices and behaviors that occur when you DO actually choose to work on your art. What did you notice about your reflections? Does anything stand out to you?

Everyone is different. It is important to stay true to yourself. Listen to that inner voice that screams Yay! or Nay! as we discuss preparing for your creative practice.

Time

For me, first thing in the morning is (1) when I actually have the most follow through and, (2) when my judgmental self is still asleep so I have more emotional space to create. I don’t get there every morning but that’s my aim. I’m making loads more art for this choice.

A regular time set aside seems to help people get into their creative flow more quickly, not to mention allow people to produce more art.

Is this true for you?

You can see evidence of my making time, like this image, on Instagram. It helps me stay accountable to post my near daily progress.

Space

I didn’t realize how important space was for my practice until I didn’t have my own. The first apartment my husband and I shared was amazing but a bit squished for two people in need of studio space (my husband paints models). I can’t make art with him in the same room as me. I don’t know why, but it’s true. So, when we moved to Oman we separated our workspaces. It has made a huge difference in my productivity.

“I didn’t realize how important space was for my practice until I didn’t have my own.” (Click to Tweet)

Can you create a corner in your home designated for creative practice? If you don’t have the space to keep your workspace “out,” can you develop a “starting ritual” that physically and mentally prepares you for your creative work?

How important is space for you?

Mindset

Time, Space, and Mindset are all important factors to consider for priming your creativity.

It’s a complete fallacy that you need to be in the mood to create. A good article that discusses this exists here. What is true, is that committed, regular creative practice creates more moments of flow. The more I work on my art, and create even when I don’t “feel like it,” the more I get into my flow state and create interesting art!

Have you only made art when you are “in the mood?”

How could Time and Space reinforce and encourage a creative flow state?

Now equipped with this information, consider 3 changes you can make to improve your creative practice. Write them down.

“These 3 factors can impact your creative process.” (Click to Tweet)

When we can reflect on our current creative practices it allows us to better harness factors like time and space to further develop our mindset. Be careful with the words you choose as you describe this refined creative practice. You want to justify and reinforce your need for creative expression.

BE COURAGEOUSLY CREATIVE: You’ve identified 3 changes to improve your creative practice.What are they? I want to know. Tell me about it in the comments below.

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