For the past six years motherhood has presented the perfect excuse not to have a creative practice. I’m too busy, too tired, too needed-elsewhere. Yes, I have sewed, baked, collaged and more during this time; but all too often these endeavors have been stashed away until some elusive point when I get more free time. I have allowed motherhood to be my excuse not to grow creatively. So here I am now with three kids and no less desire to create, just less “free” time and I don’t think that will change any time soon.
I am sick of giving in to the voice in my head that says things like:
- You should be doing something important right now (like cleaning.)
- Art for no reason isn’t worthwhile.
- You don’t deserve time to play.
- If the dishes aren’t done you shouldn’t be making things.
- When the house is organized or kids are older or ~life is perfect~ THEN you’ll have time to play in your studio.
Bullshit! If I wait until the timing and circumstances are perfect it will not happen. I will never get to a point where the universe taps me on the shoulder and says “Ok, all the other work is done, now you can pursue your creative life.”
Creative life cannot be separated from “regular” life. As mothers we must change the tone of everyday life towards creativity. We can make little tweaks and changes to our days so they begin to be filled with more art and light and inspiration, and less excuses. If we are to have vibrant, exciting lives, our creativity must be interwoven into washing dishes and making snacks. If we are to raise creative children who will build a beautiful world, we must show them that creativity is a priority- not last on the list!
So I begin with my new creative practice of sketching every day. Making it an every day commitment helps me work through the excuses. Choosing something realistic for this time in my life makes it possible. Each day that I do my sketching it is a little victory over the creativity-killing voice that tries to persuade me a more perfect time will come later. The victory make me feel creative, sparkly, and more awake.
And the dishes are patient, they don’t mind waiting until I do my sketch.
{ 5 comments… read them below or add one }
Go for it! We give lots of attention to encouraging our kids to be creative in their play and crafts – time for you to have the chance too
Thanks Cathy. I really feel like I have more energy for the kids when I give back to myself.
~Alissa
love it. i constantly feel the need to do dishes when really i would rather be baking or creating something. i love your post. thanks for the pep talk!
So true! It’s all connected! I actually feel like I’m giving my kids a gift by letting them see me in my creative mode; it shows them what’s possible with a little imagination. Yay you!
Love this post! I am often full of guilty if I do anything creative, I have a hard time validating doing art as opposed to chores, as well as not making an income from doing art like I sometimes wish to do. I have realized doing work while my 2 year old son is around inspires him to do things as well on his own which is nice. Doing creative things with your kids can also feed into what you do as an art making person as well, whatever it may be.