And I'm going to tell you exactly why.
So grab your favorite note-taking tool and let's uncover why being creative is no excuse to fly off the handle when it comes to organization.
I work with creative clients and at some time or another I've gotten a variation of the following:
"I hate your lists"
"Please don't make me follow that"
"The deadline makes me anxious and I can't be creative"
"Oh that pdf you sent... you needed me to read it?"
How it's going NOW? They all love check-lists, action plans, and printable calendars. I had to speak to the CHAOS to get it controlled- so to speak.
Creativity Thrives With Structure
Listen up, rebel: structure isn't the enemy of creativity – it is a secret weapon. Without a solid framework, you're just aimlessly creating and doing.
Think of it this way: Without structure you're just throwing spaghetti at the wall and hoping for it to stick. There is no rhyme or reason, just flinging pasta around with no direction. Introducing structure to said spaghetti flinging can bring you a cohesive end-game. Like aiming all the spaghetti in the shape of a heart.
Here's the big picture: creativity thrives in the presence of structure because it offers both support and freedom. When it feels like the boundaries are confining, remember they are a GUIDE that can lead you to unexpected discoveries or new avenues. You may end up pushing more limits... having limits.
Consistency Breeds Brilliance
Let's talk about consistency, shall we? I'm not talking about boring old routines; it's what you absolutely need to tap into your creative genius side.
Pick about 3 or 4 of your favorite content creators, artists, musicians – do you think they just woke up one day and created a masterpiece?
They showed up, day in and day out, honing their craft with true dedication. Not to say they didn't have creative impulses, but they don't need to run your world. You need to channel them into a consistent practice that will constantly spark inspiration, fuels your creative fire, and helps you hit all your business goals.
Organization is Your Bestie, Not Your Frenemy
Repeat after me: organization is not the enemy of creativity. In fact, it's your bestie – your ride-or-die partner in crime.
Picture this: a cluttered desk overflowing with half-finished projects...and forgotten dreams because you low-key cannot find the notes you took about these brilliant ideas. Not exactly the stuff creative 🎶dreams are made of🎶, right? With a bit of organization, that chaos can totally be transformed into a structured business goal, ready for an action plan at a moment's notice.
Being organized in your physical space AND in your mental space are equally important, so as a creative you need to find ways that work best for you to do both.
Things I like to do?
Tidy up my desk area & throw out JUNK mail, papers, old notes, etc...
Do a load of laundry
Listen to my Headspace app
Take the hottest shower imaginable
Bake or cook and have a glass of wine (red of course)
Play with Romolo
Clean my kitchen or bathroom
Deadlines Are Your BFFs, Not Your Enemies
Ah, deadlines – the bane of every creative's existence. Or are they? Deadlines are not out to ruin your creativity. They just give it an extra sense of urgency, a kick in the ass that propels you into action. Without them, you're just drifting aimlessly, and have way too much time on your hands to make impulsive decisions (love u tho).
Without deadlines all your ideas, dreams, and goals are just floating in space with no purpose. While the 'open waters' may seem inviting at first, the lack of a clear endpoint leaves you unsure where to steer next. Deadlines provide a sense of purpose and direction, nudging you towards tangible goals and accomplishments.
Balance is Key
At the end of the day, it's all about balance, baby.
Creativity and structure aren't mutually exclusive; they're two sides of the same coin. So find that sweet spot where freedom meets discipline and where chaos meets order.
When you strike that perfect balance, magic happens. And who doesn't want a little bit of magic in their lives?
Being creative is no excuse to be unstructured. Embrace the chaos in an organized fashion, I promise it'll help you level up your creative brain.
XO,
Lauren
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