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I always look forward to a new year because it usually provides motivation to make some changes. Sometimes that motivation only last a few weeks, but it's there nonetheless. And while I want to take advantage of that feeling, I know pushing myself too hard could lead to more burnout. But I've been lacking in creativity for so long that I feel I just have to try to make some changes this year or I could be stuck in this creative limbo forever.
While this certainly applies to writing, I'm also thinking of other outlets to try to spark my creativity again. I know that writing and reading go hand in hand, and I haven't been doing much of either for quite some time. I'm hoping if I get back into reading, it will inspire me to get back into writing. I certainly have enough unread books on my shelves to get me through the year.
I want to do other things that I've enjoyed in the past, like making jewelry and doing puzzles. I also want to listen to more music, both albums I've never heard before and ones that I know I love but haven't listened to in years. I find music usually inspires me to write as well, so this could be helpful.
I've recently gotten into Tiktok, which for me, at least, is a creative outlet. I think I've enjoyed it so much lately because it's the only creative thing I've been doing for months. That being said, I do need to spend more time actually making my own Tiktoks and not just mindlessly scrolling for hours.
Another goal for this year is to eat healthier and exercise more, and I can bring creativity into that by cooking more. I have a lot of healthy meal go-tos in my arsenal, but I want to try new recipes as well. My goal is to try a new one every week. And I can listen to lots of music while I'm exercising.
All of these ideas can feel a bit overwhelming, but I just want to take it one day at a time. I got another planner this year that I swear I will actually use and not give up on after a month or so. Really.
So here's to a year of being creative, whatever that creativity may be!
Taking it one day at a time sounds like a good approach. And reading could inspire your writing. I've been enjoying reading more these days. Winter is a good time to read a lot.
ReplyDeleteSounds like you have plenty of new creative things to try that just might re-inspire the writing. Music is a big go-to for me.
ReplyDeleteHappy New Year!
ReplyDeleteI too have many creative things I want to get back to this year. Hopefully they won't take too much away from writing!
Lots of good ideas and options here, Sarah. I wish you all the best in filling that creative well!
ReplyDeleteThis past two years I have really tackled new recipes and enjoy cooking so much more. making your own means so much less processed, unhealthy food.
ReplyDeleteI always feel motivated at the beginning of a new year, too, and this year I am also trying to take things one day at a time. Wishing you much luck and success in 2024!
ReplyDeleteI hope your well of creativity fills to the brim this year. And I'm right there with you about tracking/planning and giving up about a month later. That sounds like my life.
ReplyDeleteGood luck with your creative goals this year.
ReplyDeleteSounds like you have some great plans. I love doing jigsaw puzzles. I received 4 new ones for Christmas from the family. Enjoy all your new outlets.
ReplyDeleteSounds like a great plan! Bit by bit is often the best way for me as well. Hope 2024 is kind to you and yours!
ReplyDeleteI think bit by bit is a great way to go. I've been known to add tooth flossing and taking my vitamins as daily goals and pat myself on the back when I accomplish them.
ReplyDeleteFinding creative hobbies is not a problem for me! I have lots I want and love to do, the problem is balancing it with everything else! There's only so many hours in the day, I don't want other hobbies to cut into writing. :-(
ReplyDeleteI technically have a TikTok account, but I haven't posted anything; I only created it so I could see other people's posts. I like the ones where people post about journaling. For some reason, seeing posts and videos about journals motivate me to write more.
ReplyDeleteThose are some great goals for the year. And, yes, creativity has many outlets. Even if I were to stop writing today, I would find another way to be creative.
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