Creative Living: It’s Time For Big Magic

“Do you have the courage to bring forth the treasures that are hidden within you?” - Elizabeth Gilbert

As an expressive arts therapist and facilitator, I am very vocal about the transformative power of creativity. Creativity is not just some lofty pursuit reserved for artists or professionals, but it is an everyday companion that has the potential to enrich our lives on a daily basis. It is a vital part of the human experience that can heal, empower, and inspire.

I recently returned to Elizabeth Gilbert's book Big Magic: Creative Living Beyond Fear because it can offer profound insights into how we can all embrace a life of creative expression, regardless of our professions or artistic abilities.

Gilbert invites us to reconsider the way we approach creativity. Rather than seeing it as a rare gift reserved for a lucky few, she encourages us to believe that creativity is available to all of us. It’s a living force that exists within each person, waiting to be tapped into. The key, she argues, is to cultivate a mindset of curiosity and openness rather than fear and perfectionism.

The Role of Fear in Creativity

One of the core ideas Gilbert explores in Big Magic is the relationship between fear and creativity. It’s natural to feel afraid when we start a creative project whether it’s writing, painting, dancing, or simply trying something new. Fear often manifests as self-doubt or worry about failure. However, Gilbert suggests that instead of allowing fear to paralyze us, we can choose to acknowledge it without letting it control us.

In my work with groups & individuals, I see how fear often stands in the way of growth or transformation. Clients may fear vulnerability or judgment, making it harder for them to express themselves. Creative living, as Gilbert describes, involves embracing the process rather than fixating on the outcome. It’s about showing up, creating, and allowing yourself the space to evolve, without worrying about being perfect.

Curiosity: The Gateway to Creativity

Another central theme of Big Magic is the importance of curiosity. Curiosity is a gentle yet powerful force that can help us overcome our inner critics and fuel our creative endeavors. Instead of asking, “Am I good enough?” Gilbert encourages us to ask, “What would happen if I tried?” This shift in perspective opens up endless possibilities for self-expression and exploration.

I love to witness the power of curiosity firsthand with my clients. Whether through drawing, writing, or movement, clients often find that engaging in the creative process allows them to access parts of themselves they had previously overlooked or repressed. The act of creating can bring clarity, joy, and healing in unexpected ways.

Creativity as a Lifelong Practice

I believe like Gilbert, that creativity isn’t something that comes in fits and starts; it’s a lifelong practice. The more we show up to our creative selves, the more we invite magic into our lives. This doesn’t mean we need to dedicate ourselves to grand projects or make a living off of our art. It simply means allowing creativity to be a consistent part of our daily existence, in both big and small ways.

Creativity can be both a therapeutic tool and a daily practice for health & wellness. We can integrate the creative process into our lives and become active participants in a dynamic process that will unfold in inspiring ways.

Ready to Explore Your Creative Magic?

If you’re inspired to dive deeper into the world of creative living, I highly recommend reading Big Magic by Elizabeth Gilbert and read along with me.

Whether you're a seasoned creative or simply someone looking to add more creativity into your life, this book offers valuable insights that can inspire, guide, and uplift you.

Click here to purchase your copy of Big Magic: https://amzn.to/3Dbn5fi

Let creativity be your guide to living a life of courage, curiosity, and joy. The magic is waiting for you.

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