The importance of being creative takes centre stage in your 20s. Being creative gives you a chance to hang out with yourself, whilst you try to figure out who you are and where your life is heading. Your 20s are demanding as you transition from a teenager to an adult, and suddenly need an expert sense of balancing everything that’s going on in your life.
Connecting with your inner creativity through a creative outlet enhances your self-expression. It allows you to have somewhere to empty your head and have time with your thoughts, which will, in turn, improve other aspects of your life. It’s said that creative people have better mental and physical well-being. So if you’re in need of some self-improvement, creativity may be the answer.
How to be creative
Sitting with no clue on how to be creative? No need to worry – it’s not as hard as it seems and we’ve got some examples! You can write poetry, short stories or even start a blog that you update monthly. Drawing and painting are calming ways to pass the time. Things like exploring different styles of music or creating your own count too. Photography is another great example, along with learning to cook new foods, dancing or aerobic exercises like yoga. There is almost too much to choose from!
Think about your interests and what you enjoy, and you’ll naturally be drawn to a creative process. But most importantly, remind yourself that you don’t have to be a professional. Creativity isn’t about perfectionism and shouldn’t result in additional stress. Instead, you need to enjoy and relax during this time. Many people assume that if they weren’t born creative then they can’t express themselves in this way. This couldn’t be further from the truth. In fact, by exploring your interests you might even discover a hidden talent, opening new doors of opportunity for you.
Creativity and stress relief
During your 20s you have so many aspects of life to keep up with. Your studies, social life and career all require lots of responsibility, so it can be hard to keep everything on track. The importance of being creative is crucial because it relieves stress. It gives you time to sit back, relax and be yourself. Easing stress this way leaves you feeling refreshed, gives you energy to develop and allows you to be productive in more off-putting tasks.
You’ll also begin to take fresh approaches as you nurture a creative perspective towards all angles of a task. You’ll become the perfect problem solver with a good balance of work and chill. Finding the time for creativity can be tricky but it can fit nicely into a relaxing routine. Imagine, a hot bath in the evening, followed by a chilled creative session. It’s the perfect end to a productive day.
Creativity and mental health
Those who struggle with high levels of stress, anxiety and depression may find having a creative outlet especially helpful. Research shows that creativity improves our mental health, emphasising the importance of being creative in your 20s. Taking the time to immerse yourself into creativity is freeing and can stop a million thoughts racing through your head. It’s a chance to focus your mind on something that you have complete control over, allowing you to get in touch with your thoughts and feelings.
Seeing what you produce over a period of time can also become a journey of seeing where your mind has been recently. Overall, creativity is advantageous because it can be mentally therapeutic and help you to develop your confidence in self-expression as you become more present with your feelings.
Creativity and personal growth
Learning to not be afraid to try new things is also an important life skill to work on. Even when you feel as if you’re not the best at something, it’s important not to shy away from it and just give it your best shot. You’ll grow in confidence and get to know yourself better.
Much more, putting your time and effort into a creative channel will be rewarding in the long run. It will draw you to new crowds of people and really open your eyes on how amazing the creative world can be. Perhaps you’ll end up pursuing your creative outlet in the future alongside your career? Or end up producing some really original ideas that could throw you into the creative industry? You never quite know until you take that step.
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Written by Taylor Cottrell
Illustrated by Francesca Mariama
