As a university student, it is far too easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of everyday life. It can be extremely challenging to stay on top of course work and maintain a healthy balance between work and play. This can be even more difficult at this time of the year, as many of us are searching for summer jobs. Trying to schedule phone interviews, Skype sessions, or even travel arrangements to interview face-to-face only adds to the chaos.
Many of us have creative outlets that we enjoy, but we often let these activities fade into the background. We deem them as non-essential and place them on the back burner to save them for a time when we are less busy. Inevitably, in most cases, this less busy time never comes!
We need to start allowing ourselves time to explore the creative activities we enjoy most. Creative outlets are not distractions and can actually help us to be more productive in our everyday lives. Awakening your creativity can actually make you feel happier and more confident! It can help reduce your stress and anxiety and it promotes critical thinking and problem solving. Who doesn’t want to feel more joyful, relaxed, and empowered?
The truth is, creative thinking is the ideal “exercise” for your brain and a superpower within all of us! You likely already have many creative activities that you enjoy, but in case you’re in need of some extra inspiration, below are my top creative go-to’s!
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Baking
If you’re a total foodie like me, baking is the perfect activity. You don’t have to be an expert to get in the kitchen, test out a recipe, and experiment with new flavour combos! Even when you’re pressed for time, take a break, find a quick treat, and bake it! Pumpkin muffins are my current obsession (I know…I know it’s not fall, but pumpkin should not be seasonal!). And the best part, muffins take less than an hour to bake and once you’re finished you have delicious snacks and breakfasts for the whole week.
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Drawing
As a child, I absolutely loved to draw and would often spend hours on end trying to sketch Precious Moments (the cartoon people with cute teardrop eyes), Care Bears, and everything else under the sun! As I got older and life got busy, I completely stopped drawing. In high school, I was so focused on taking all of my maths and sciences that art class was out the window. Thankfully, not too long ago I rediscovered my passion and so can you! Drawing is not just for children! Whether you’re Picasso or a stick-figure enthusiast, grab a pencil and some paper and start doodling. You’ll be amazed by what you can do or at the very least have a good chuckle at your creations!
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Dance
My ballet career started at the age of 4 and lasted a solid 2 years! Due to a scheduling conflict, I had to choose between ballet and hockey and well I chose the latter! This is not a decision that I regret, as I am about as graceful as a hippo. However, dance is still a passion of mine and I’ve moved on from tutus to TikTok. Whether you need a 20-minute study break or just a midday boost, put on some tunes and get your groove on. Bonus points if you record and get the additional comic relief of watching yourself afterwards!
