Often, early sobriety doesn’t leave room for much more than staying sober.

Everyone is different, and there’s no right way, but I was definitely in “survival mode” for many months after I quit drinking alcohol. If you’re in what you’d consider the “early phase” and don’t feel up to being authentically creative, give yourself grace.

I had moments of using creativity to heal in my first two years of being alcohol-free, but in years three and four I fully incorporated creative work into my sobriety routine and tool kit.

However much you choose to embrace creativity in your sobriety, I’m here to tell you that it will make a positive impact!

It’s okay to not know what “being creative” means for yourself.

Try to let go of any feelings of judgment or self-doubt.

Creativity is Healing By:

helping you learn more about yourself
giving you something positive and fulfilling to focus on
boosting self-confidence
giving you something to be proud of
helping you process difficult emotions

8 Ways to Get Creative:

free write or draw
don’t let good ideas slip
work on self (acceptance, trust, love)
do something silly
meditate
be in nature
talk to someone who inspires you
reading or listening

Free Write or Draw

Yes, the blank piece of paper can be intimidating, but it’s also a safe place for you to take what’s worrying you and put it somewhere else.

When I use my journal to vent, two things happen:

I realize the thing I’m freaking out about is actually not that big. It always feels bigger and badder in your mind, and seeing your problem on paper makes it easier to face.
Anxiety and repetitive thoughts fade. For me, it feels like I leave it all in the journal.

The more you see your journal as a friend or a safe zone, the more you’ll use it.

And just like Taylor Swift, we can all create art from life experiences. 😉

Don’t Let Good Ideas Slip

Do you ever have an insightful thought and think, “I should write that down.”

WRITE IT DOWN!

Recognize and record your good ideas.

This is how we believe in and show up for ourselves.

Unfortunately, my good ideas happen in the shower, so I’m always desperately trying to remember the summary of ideas before I can make it to my phone. Sometimes I even take my phone with me.🤦🏻‍♀️

Work on Self (acceptance, trust, love)

Doing something creative like writing, drawing, or brainstorming is kind of difficult if you’re currently at war with yourself. Negative self-talk and feelings of shame aren’t supportive of embracing your creative spirit.

If you’re struggling to get creative, try starting with self-love.

Do Something Silly

Break out of your usual routine with something that shines light on your inner child!

What did you like to do as a kid? What fascinated you?

Laughing is a free tool that can reduce stress and bring more oxygen to your body.

If you’re healing from something like a history of addiction, it takes time to figure out your new definition of “fun.” You may have to pick an activity, safely, outside of your comfort zone to discover what fun looks like in your sober-curious life.

Be in Nature

The effect of green and blue landscapes on the human brain has long been studied by scientists, psychologists, healers, and more. The innate calming sensation of nature can wrap us into a stress-free paradise, even if it’s just for a minute.

When you’re trying to tap into your creative side, I suggest spending time in nature!

Practice being present in the moment and let inspiration find you.

Meditate

The benefits of meditation are well documented.

Stress management, increased self-awareness, improved sleep… I could go on.

For me, the traditional “sitting with your legs crossed” thing doesn’t work. I meditate in the shower, on a walk, doing yoga, or sitting in silence before journaling. The takeaway I’m looking for is clarity and a sense of center. That’s how I know it’s working.

The centering abilities of meditation are what makes it so useful for creatives, myself included.

Mayo Clinic specifically mentions increased creativity as a benefit of meditation.

Find a meditation method that works for you!

Reading or Listening

I always assume I can “think” my way to a creative masterpiece, but too much thinking can turn into overthinking. Relinquish the power and listen to others, absorb new energy.

Podcasts, books, blogs, audiobooks, music, TED talks… your options are endless.