I think I’m starting to catch on. Overall I think I’m becoming savvier. I’m guilty of piling on more in my life; more work, more obligations, and more responsibilities to an already saturated, over-stressed, and jam-packed life. Life is already busy enough without adding more to it. And, who’s got room for that?
I often feel the weight of all the things I haven’t gotten to, all the loops still left open, all the stress of the plates in the air that need spinning? But, this year I say let’s, “DITCH THE ITINERARY” for a day a week and see how much more creative in your thinking, work and life you become.
Who’s in?
I’m a graphic designer (amongst other things) and most people would call me a creative person. What I find interesting about that is that most people think to be creative is to be able to design, draw, dance, sing etc. etc. But it’s a whole lot more than that. It’s a way of thinking, a thought process that finds interesting ways to solve problems or invent new things. It’s having cool ideas. And ironically, I often have really cool ideas when I’m doing something completely unrelated to the issue or problem I’m trying to solve.
New Practice
A practice that I’ve introduced this year is to have a least one day during my work week when I completely ditch my itinerary and just take the day as it comes. And I’m loving it!
When I have a strict schedule or plan for the day, I very quickly get caught up in the routine and busyness of the day and miss out on unexpected opportunities for inspiration. I totally get that I have to work to deadlines and such (it’s part of what I do), but I’ve discovered that by letting go of my itinerary/schedule for a day a week, helps me feel calmer, more centred and at peace with my world. I’ve also noticed that I can think more clearly, have better ideas for my business, problem solve, be more artistic and design better.
On these ‘ditch the itinerary’ days I’ve been giving myself permission to do whatever I like. Some days I’ll catch up with a friend for lunch, others I’ll watch some Netflix, read or wash my car. Sometimes I’ll go skateboarding. Yep you read that right… during COVID lockdowns I decided I wanted to learn how to skateboard. NOT tricks and flips, (I’m sure I’d break an arm or something if I did that), just cruising to improve my balance and coordination. So, now Lincoln and I will often be seen cruising around the streets at random times of the week. It’s great! I get outside into the fresh air, skateboard, walk, sweat and clear my mind of the stress I’ve felt during my busy week.
What I’m finding is that these simple things are a great way to combat the busyness and pressure to do more and it lets my subconscious work on any creative problems I may be facing.
I’m convinced that ditching my itinerary and taking the day as it comes is a great way to think more creatively. It allows you to open yourself up to new experiences, perspectives, and possibilities. So next time you’re feeling stuck, try stepping out of your routine and see where it takes you.
#clearyourmind #creativethinking #mentalhealth
