Who has read The Artist’s Way? It’s been my go-to book for years, when I wanted to tune in and amp up my creative being. Just last week, I decided to begin to practice morning pages again – time to write 3 pages of words each morning in free-flow form with continuous thought. I committed to make time for an artist’s date… time by myself each week doing something I love.
One of my dear friends who I often collaborate and strategize with on long walks, emailed me after yesterday’s Love Letter from the Soul, and mentioned she had just picked up The Artist’s Way this week! I laughed, and said – “me too!” I felt like this was a signpost that I needed to bring in a little Julia Cameron (the author of The Artist’s Way) wisdom to this series.
Business: Creative brainstorming for your business is such a gift. We often don’t take the time to play in idea generation and innovation for our businesses, because we get lost in the doing. Today, pull out some color markers and a big sheet of paper. Flip chart size is best. Start to mindmap all that might be possible for your business this year. Do it in a space where you don’t usually work – turn on some fun upbeat music – then draw, color, and mindmap a vision of ideas that could #RaiseUP your business.
Life: Start your own morning pages ritual and commit to it for at least 2 weeks. Three pages of uninterrupted writing every morning first thing when you get up. If you feel a pause, just keep writing, even if it is “I don’t know what to write. I don’t know what to write. I don’t know what to write.” Whatever is meant to flow from you will. And then set up a 3-hour time for yourself – you only – to go do something that you’ve been wanting to do. To go to an art museum, to take a painting class… a pottery class… a photography class. Or simply just get out and do your art, whatever that may be! This is what Julia Cameron calls an artist’s date. It’s a gift. Trust me.
One last thing I’d like to add. I launched a podcast yesterday with someone I greatly admire: singer and songwriter Leah Song of the band Rising Appalachia. This interview is filled with creative energy from this soulful woman I admire so much. Her creative gifts are song, poetry and even visual art. If you’re seeking a little creative inspiration, this is another beautiful place to tune in. Her work is all about creative expression with impact – making a difference. I say yes to this combination, and perhaps her wisdom will blossom ideas on how your creative expression can make a difference. Take a listen.
May you let your creativity play, my friend!
Much love,
