In a world where all we seem to do is constantly consume – clothes, media, and endless social media content, actively practising creativity can feel like a lost art. Even more ominous is the rise of AI-generated images, music and stories, seemingly replacing human imagination. As children, we constantly used our imagination and were vehemently encouraged to do so, so why has this been numbed in adult life? Does the transition into adulthood mean that we are destined for boredom? I would argue that in a society where we’re constantly categorised, harnessing creativity allows us to ward off boredom, recapture our childhood imaginations and ultimately express individuality.
A simple way to encourage creativity into your daily routine is by journaling. Set aside a time, morning or evening, to put a pen to paper and allow your thoughts to flow freely – it can be incredibly cathartic to release your emotions in this way. I’ve kept a diary since I was 12 and have found that the key to ensuring that it remains a consistent hobby is to remove the obligation to create something “perfect”. Within a culture that promotes excessive productivity, creativity is a quality to be nurtured. So, to effectively journal, focus on expressing yourself rather than pursuing perfection.
A friend of mine started scrapbooking last semester, and it has since blossomed into a hugely meaningful pastime. What began with creating simple collages from old magazines has now evolved into intricate, beautiful pieces formed from tea packets, cinema tickets, and all manner of banal, everyday labels. Through collaging, she has discovered a way of finding beauty in the most ordinary things. In the age of modern technology, where our memories, thoughts and emotions are becoming increasingly digitised, preserving them physically via a scrapbook can provide a valuable keepsake.
Creativity through self-expression can be a great way to boost your mood and curate your unique style. Instead of sticking to a particular fashion aesthetic, experimenting with clothes in your wardrobe allows you to explore new, authentic combinations and step away from the rigidity of micro-trends. Just because “clean-girl makeup” is popular right now, doesn’t mean that you can’t experiment with a colourful eyeshadow palette! Finding your style and self-expression is key to stimulating creative thinking and shaping your personality. After all, we’re only young once, so now is the perfect time to embrace experimentation and individuality!
Creativity isn’t just for artistic professionals; it should be encouraged as part of daily life. As students, the pressure of perfection can feel like a burden, but embracing creativity can help us break free from this, enabling us to find beauty in the mundane.
Image provided by Hannah Doran