Why Creativity Isn’t a Hobby — It’s Self-Care
When people hear the word creativity, they often think of hobbies. Painting, knitting, baking, gardening — the “nice-to-have” activities that get pushed aside when life gets busy. But here’s the truth I’ve learned: creativity isn’t just a hobby. It’s self-care.
And in a world that constantly demands more, faster, better — giving yourself permission to create is one of the kindest things you can do for your mind and body.
Creativity as a Breather
When I sit down to draw or get lost in a little project, it’s not just about making something pretty. It’s about breathing. For a few minutes, my mind stops racing. I’m not thinking about to-do lists, responsibilities, or what’s next. Creativity creates a pause — a pocket of calm in the middle of a messy day.
Creativity as Expression
We all carry things inside us — stress, frustration, joy, grief — and creativity gives those feelings somewhere to go. Writing, painting, or even doodling in the margins of a notebook can be a way of saying what words can’t always capture.
It’s not about talent. It’s not about selling what you make. It’s about expression. And sometimes, putting pen to paper or brush to canvas is the release your heart needs.
Creativity as Healing
Living with chronic illness has taught me how vital creativity is. When my body slows down, creativity is one of the few things that makes me feel alive. It reminds me I’m more than my symptoms. Even small acts — colouring a mandala, arranging flowers, writing a blog post like this — are part of my healing toolkit.
Creativity as Connection
Creativity also connects us. Whether it’s sharing your art online, cooking a meal for someone you love, or teaching your child a craft, these creative acts weave threads between people. They say, “Here’s a piece of me. I made this for you.”
Final Thoughts
So no, creativity isn’t “just a hobby.” It’s not something frivolous or indulgent. It’s a form of self-care — as essential as rest, good food, and fresh air.
You don’t need to be an artist or a crafter to claim creativity. You just need to give yourself permission to play, to make, to try.
Because when you create, you care for yourself — and that’s never a waste of time.