Staring at a blank page with the cursor blinking is the most intimidating, depressing and frustrating thing I can experience as a writer. My personal creative process has evolved over my academic career. The meltdowns happen less often but are continuous because I am only human. It has taken a lot of self-discoveries to get to this point. I would like to share with you some of my creative habits.
I had spent over a week trying to figure out where to begin. My anxiety would heighten every time I would return to the blank page. I had been agonizing over this paper I had to write for one of my college classes. None of my thoughts connected. Then one day, I decided to go for a drive. Most of my best ideas come to me when I drive, so I thought “why not?” With my window rolled down, the wind on my face, I can think clearly. Driving is my sanctuary and the place where I feel free.
I spent the next hour driving around the back roads by my house. I took notes by audio recording myself as I thought – out loud – through my paper. Then, once I felt I had an excellent place to start, I rushed home to write it all down. I am lucky to know where I am most creative – my car.
“You can’t use up creativity. The more you use, the more you have.”
Maya Angelou
Beyond driving, I have discovered the more I emerge myself into the world of creativity, the more creative I am. I “scratch” my creativity by reading, viewing and listening to those that inspire me. The more I read and absorb others’ work, the more I can form thoughtful words on a page. I encourage everyone to surround themselves with creative people. Creative people have inspired me to be better, and I know they will do the same for you.
Jessica Kupcake 