Daily Practices to Embrace and Live Your Joy

Creativity is More Than Art

Creativity has always been woven into the fabric of my life. As a kid, I was that quiet girl sketching in the margins of her homework or writing stories that no one ever read. I tried every “hobby” under the sun—from painting and journaling to sewing and sculpting—because something inside me always whispered: create.

But somewhere along the way, I forgot. Life got loud. Messy. Demanding. And creativity? It slipped to the bottom of the to-do list. Sound familiar?

Then one day, I realized: creativity isn’t just something I do—it’s how I live. It’s how I make sense of the world. It’s how I breathe joy back into the hardest days and reconnect with who I really am beneath the noise. It's been my lifeline through stormy seas; mending my spirit and transforming my life. In moments of doubt or uncertainty, creativity was my refuge—a place where I could explore and let me imagination run wild. It taught me that even the most challenging experiences could be transformed into something beautiful and meaningful.

As I embraced my creative journey, I realized it wasn’t just about cranking out art. It was about living life with a sense of wonder and curiosity. It encouraged me to see the world differently, to appreciate the beauty in the mundane, and to find inspiration in unexpected places. And so, creativity became an integral part of my identity, my trusty guide through life's chaos. It reminds me that no matter where I am or what I face, I have the power to create, to heal, and to inspire. For that, I'm forever grateful.

Misty from Creatively Misty working on a vibrant mixed media portrait in her colorful, joy-filled studio. Surrounded by bright crayons and creative tools, she layers color and texture with confidence—bringing her mission to life by empowering women to embrace fearless creativity and rediscover their artistic voice.

Creativity is the key to unlocking our passions, discovering hidden talents, and expressing our deepest emotions. When we engage in creative activities, we tap into inspiration and imagination that can transform our outlook on life. Creativity encourages us to break free from the ordinary, tackle problems with courage, and see the world as a curious adventurer.

Whether painting, playing music, writing, or any other form of creative expression, you can escape the ordinary and add some fun and joy to your life. Creating is a calming break for the mind, offering a moment of reflection and peace. Plus, when you share your work, you're connecting with others and building a community where inspiration is shared and enjoyed by everyone.

So, nurture your creative spirit, and let it shine like a beacon, leading you to a life bursting with joy and happiness. Embrace the magic of creativity and watch as it opens doors to new adventures and endless possibilities.

Your Daily Guide to Living a Creative, Joyful Life

Here are a few gentle practices I come back to again and again to help me embrace and live my creative joy:

Gratitude Journaling:

Start your day with three simple things you're grateful for. They don’t have to be big—sunlight on your coffee mug, your favorite song, a quiet moment before the world wakes up. Gratitude shifts your energy and opens the door to joy.

Mindful Moments:

Take a few minutes each day to pause and breathe deeply. Take five slow breaths. Close your eyes. Listen to the world around you. Let your mind rest. These little pauses often spark the biggest ideas.

Surround Yourself with Inspiration:

Your space should feel like a hug from your muse. Fill it with color, textures, books, art, and music that makes your soul do a little dance. Let your environment whisper, “Let’s play” and encourages your imagination to flourish.

Creative Expression:

Creativity is a powerful way to tap into your inner joy. You don’t need to be an “artist.” You just need a moment to make something. Splash some paint, bake something wild, dance in your kitchen, write a haiku. It’s not about the outcome—it’s about coming alive.

Time for Play:

Yep, grown-ups need recess too. Set aside time just to play. No purpose. No productivity. Just freedom. Give yourself permission to engage in play. Play stimulates creativity and leads to unexpected discoveries.

Connect with Nature:

Nature is a masterpiece—and one of my favorite creative muses. Step outside. Notice the colors, the sounds, the textures. The scenery, the symphony of sounds, and the fragrant whispers of the wild are incredibly inspiring and rejuvenating for your creative spirit.

Creative Gratitude:

Celebrate your tiny creative wins. Maybe you tried a new color. Maybe you showed up even when you were scared. That’s growth. Reflect on these moments of joy and triumph in your creative journey. This delightful habit sparks positivity, keeping your creative fire burning bright.

Engage with Fellow Creatives:

You are not alone on this journey. Find your people—whether online or in-person—and share your heart. Connection fuels courage. Teaming up and sharing stories can spark your passion and provide fresh perspectives.

Challenge Yourself:

Set personal creative challenges or goals that push your boundaries. Try a 30-day sketchbook or learn a new technique. Stepping outside your comfort zone is where the good stuff grows.

Reflect and Recharge:

Don’t forget to rest. You don’t have to hustle for creativity. Sometimes the most creative thing you can do is nap, stretch, or watch the clouds. Give yourself permission to kick back, rest and relax and to recharge your imagination.

Keep Showing Up, Even When It’s Messy

Remember, not every creation will be perfect, and they don’t have to be. Treat failures as steppingstones on your creative journey, building your voice and intuition along the way.

Incorporating these practices won’t just boost your creativity—they’ll enrich your whole life. When you show up for your creativity, you’re showing up for your joy, your healing, and your whole beautiful self.

You don’t need to wait for the perfect moment or the perfect studio. Just start. One little practice at a time.

I’d love to know

Do you have a daily practice that lights you up?
Drop it in the comments—I’d love to hear what brings you joy and keeps your creative spark glowing. Let’s inspire each other!

A floral ceramic tray in Misty’s art studio displays the quote, “Every flower that ever bloomed went through a lot of dirt to get there,” beside a palette knife and vivid green acrylic paint. This meaningful moment captures the heart of Creatively Misty—honoring the messy, beautiful growth that happens when women embrace creativity as a path to healing, resilience, and self-expression.