Section 1.1: Embracing Self-Relationship

21. Creativity originates from how you relate to yourself. You embody both the learner and the mentor. When faced with a creative challenge, ask, "What knowledge do I possess that could assist me in resolving this?" Start recognizing yourself as your best asset.
22. Welcome serendipitous discoveries. Experiment with random ingredients from your kitchen. Combine unusual foods — like pickles and peanut butter or apple juice with radishes. While many combinations may not work, one might lead to an unexpected delight!
23. Setting intentions is far more impactful than merely wishing. Commit to your creative pursuits with intention residing in both your heart and gut. Nurture your creativity through strong, purposeful intent.
24. Reflect on how fulfilling your daily life is beyond your creative activities. Are there areas that require enhancement? Life is not solely about creation, despite our desires!
25. Let your creativity serve as a guide. Engage in a creative endeavor aimed at teaching you about your circumstances or character. If nothing comes to mind, consider writing a ten-page autobiography.
26. Have you left behind a creative project that still inspires you? Revisit it with enthusiasm, an open heart, and a firm belief in new possibilities!
27. If you frequently encounter creative blocks, identify their sources. Do you experience blocks with specific tasks, at certain times, or during particular seasons? Become an expert on your own obstacles!
28. Acquire tools for managing anxiety. Anxiety can hinder your discipline. Learn relaxation techniques or deep breathing to remain focused. Recognize that anxiety is part of the creative journey — learn to handle it effectively!
29. A creative block is essentially a barrier you construct to avoid the anxiety you expect when attempting to work. Don’t preemptively assume anxiety will arise! If it does, remember — you can handle it.
30. Time seems to vanish unless you actively schedule it. Prioritize your creative time!
31. While you cannot foresee every mood swing, mistake, or life change, you can plan to show up for your work — this is a significant part of the battle!
32. Cultivate the habit of diving straight into your work. When the time for creativity arrives, respond promptly. Stop hesitating!
33. Organize your creative endeavors. Develop a timetable to tackle your projects and stick to it. Dedicate a month to your current work without second-guessing your decisions or critiquing your progress.
34. Make creativity your first task of the day. An hour spent creating can prevent a day filled with regret. Start each morning by infusing meaning into your day. Prioritize creativity!
35. Commit to working on a creative project every day, including weekends, even if just for an hour.
36. Acknowledge that not completing your creative projects is a concern. Strive to finish every piece — reach the final sentence, finalize the last page, and share your work with the world. Do not accept unfinished projects as the norm!
37. Create a three-column table on a sheet of paper. Label the first column "Starting," the second "Working," and the third "Completing." Brainstorm as many strategies as possible to facilitate starting, progressing, and finishing your creative tasks.
38. Sometimes, creativity requires solitude. If you find yourself distracted, seek out a quiet space and dedicate two to three hours to uninterrupted work.
39. Reflect on what beliefs or behaviors you need to unlearn to enhance your creativity.
40. Embrace the journey — including the errors and chaos alongside the triumphs. Don’t expect your creative process to be smooth; the ups and downs are integral to the experience.

The first video, "How to Build Creative Confidence," dives into strategies for nurturing your creative self, providing guidance on overcoming self-doubt and fostering a positive creative mindset.

About the Author

Eric Maisel is a prolific author with over fifty published works. His latest titles include "Redesign Your Mind," "The Power of Daily Practice," and "Lighting the Way." He also pens the "Rethinking Mental Health" column for Psychology Today and is considered a leading creativity coach in the United States. For more information, visit his website at www.ericmaisel.com, subscribe to his newsletter, or check out his latest book, "Redesign Your Mind."