Why You Need a Creative Outlet

Sometimes we put so much pressure on ourselves to find the right hobby or creative outlet. Most of us have little time to learn something new or we may be scared to try something new. We live in a culture that says we always need to produce. This is something I’ve learned and needed to walk with God in. We don’t need to be constantly producing or multitasking. God has slowly been inviting me into a place where I have a creative outlet for fun. Not for others, not for a result, but for fun.

What is considered a creative outlet?

A creative outlet is something you do for fun – without trying to be productive or produce a result. We need to have creative outlets. We are built to play – just to play. When life lacks creative outlets, the grind sets in.

What does the bible say about creativity?

”All things were created through him, and apart from him not one thing was created that has been created.“

‭‭John‬ ‭1‬:‭3‬ ‭CSB‬‬

”Then God said, “Let us make man in our image, according to our likeness. They will rule the fish of the sea, the birds of the sky, the livestock, the whole earth, and the creatures that crawl on the earth.”“

‭‭Genesis‬ ‭1‬:‭26‬ ‭CSB‬‬

”So God created man in his own image; he created him in the image of God; he created them male and female.“

‭‭Genesis‬ ‭1‬:‭27‬ ‭CSB‬‬

God is creative and we’re made in his image – meaning we are creative. I believe it’s wired into us – even when something isn’t creative to the world’s standards. Not all creative outlets need to be art-related.

How can you find a creative outlet?

My dear friend Darlene may not pick up a paintbrush, but her canvas is a living room. She can create beautiful spaces and environments for others.

Sherry can string together words that, when read aloud, transport you into a place of peace. Her journaled prayers are poetry – bringing each someone into a contemplative state.

Claire is our go-to planner for girls’ trips. She always picks the best activities. One time she booked us a session at a karaoke room to belt our favorite songs. It was so much fun!

Examples of creative outlets:

• putting together puzzles
• gardening
• read
• cooking or baking
• painting
• coloring
• organizing a space
• doodle or draw
• sewing or crafting
• scrapbooking
• write down dreams
• flower arranging
• crocheting, kitting, or cross stitch
• style a bookshelf
• dance

So, what if you’re a self-proclaimed “non-creative?” How can you still have a creative outlet as a non-creative person? I remember having a conversation with my good friend, Jenny. She claims to lack creativity in all senses of the word. Yet, I’ve seen firsthand Jenn put together some Ah-Mazing complex spreadsheets. She also is a wiz problem solver. If that’s not creativity, I don’t know what is.

If you’re still having trouble finding the right creative outlet, ask questions. When I’m struggling to make a decision, I reflect. These questions may help.

• What do I enjoy?
• What is my patience level?
• What do other people say I’m good at?
• What season of life am I in?
• What is the time commitment?
• When was the last time I felt at peace?

I hope this encourages you to think past the limitations to creative outlet and play we put on ourselves. Remember, don’t make it complicated. Try something for a while. If it sticks, great! If it’s not right, move on to something else