This year has been a challenging one for me for many reasons. I’ve struggled in ways I never have before, and I often think about how that has impacted me creatively. Everything I’ve been going through has undoubtedly taken a toll on the amount of time I’ve spent on personal creative projects this year. But then I think about the times I did do it, and I realize those were filled with joy, focus, fulfillment, and most importantly, peace. And for me, I’m pretty sure it’s been that way for as long as I can remember; that’s why creativity is so important to me.

Going into the new year, I want my creative practice to be a more intentional form of self-care vs. an indulgence (or a productivity task, for that matter). It’s as important as just about anything else I do for my well-being. I’m hopeful for what the new year has in store and for the ways I’ll continue to grow personally in the future.