Warning: This post may cause an uncontrollable desire to create (but you probably knew that already).
If you're a fellow create-aholic like me, you've probably experienced the infamous creative itch. It hits you out of nowhere, all-consuming, like a spark that could either light a fire or burn you out. Today, I'm diving into mastering that itch before it takes over your entire life (because, trust me, it will if you let it).
I want to start by saying this: my projects are my babies—literally the only reason I can juggle so many at once without losing my mind. But I get it; not everyone's life looks like that. So take what works for you and leave the rest. Whatever you do, don't give up. I say this as much for you as I do for myself because I've been there—many times—wondering if I should throw in the towel. But I also know that if you're one foot in and one foot out of your creativity, it will drive you insane. Accept it. That internal conflict is always there. It's how you deal with it that matters.
Let's jump into mastering the creative itch!
What is the Creative Itch?
For me, the creative itch is that all-consuming sensation that hijacks your brain, heart, and entire being. It sounds a little trippy- right?. But that magical moment pulls me back to the drawing board, stage, or screen. Without it, creativity becomes a grind—endless rewrites, hours of filming, or drawing until my hand feels like it might fall off. Fun, right? But that's why balance is key in the creative process. The journey is always longer than you expect. I'll talk more about the process another day. Today, we're focusing on the itch.
You've felt it. You know it. But this time, you're not falling for it. You've been fooled before. You dive in, and next thing you know, two years fly by, and you're on the brink of a breakdown, losing touch with everything outside your creative world: your relationships, sanity, social life, and, oh yeah—your bills. Reality hits, and suddenly, you're questioning everything. Sound familiar? Maybe it wasn't this dramatic for you, but we've all been there if we don't learn to master the creative itch.
When it knocks, you've got to be ready. Here's how to take control.
How to Handle the Itch Without Losing Your Life
Time is Money – Set boundaries around your creative time. Whether it's X hours a week or a month, keep it balanced so it doesn't take over. (Pro tip: Meditate on abundance to bring in the cash so you can actually have time to create without stressing about money.)
The Story Already Exists – Trust that the beginning, middle, and end are already floating somewhere in your brain. Let it come to the surface, steadfast. Don't chase it; just let it flow.
Honor Both Worlds—Creativity is twofold: the world inside your mind and the one outside it. Respect both. Stay grounded in the "real world" (family, bills, fitness) and honor your creative space. You need both to stay sane.
Value = Clarity – The value you place on your project won't be the same as others unless you give them a reason to care. Keep asking, "What's the reason?" until it's so clear, you can hear others saying it for you. Your creative posse will form around you naturally.
No Self-Doubt Allowed – Self-doubt is not welcome in your creative space. If it tries to show up, kick it out immediately. You've got this.
The Path is Yours – Your creative path is unique to you. It's inside you, not out there. Look within to find the direction that's right for you.
And that's how I (mostly) keep my creative chaos under control. It's not perfect, but it's a balance I can live with. Now go out there and master that itch like the creative genius you are!
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