Life Change Artist-Day 6

 

The first of the 7 Critical Skills for a Life Change Artist is Preparation. This means, “ deliberately engaging in activities that help us break from our usual patterns of thought and feeling, and prepare us for creative insight.”

The key word in preparation is engage. We don’t have to look at this time as a way to find an instant solution to our creative dilemma. Rather it is a time to engage in creative triggering activities, as well as mind/body exercises. 

The primary purpose here is to depart from the familiar, and embark on experiences that veer from your normal day to day life. 

Remarkably these activities have been shown to change the brain. We can do this by changing our mind. Even in our golden years we still have the ability to make new brain cells. This is called neuroplasticity where we actually make new pathways in our brain. These new pathways can enhance our creative ability. 

Interestingly, it is the tension of the creative dilemma that is the catalyst for a change in course. Without it there would be no need to veer in a different direction. 

We all know that change can be difficult, and we can find ourselves reluctant to do so as we find safety in our current circumstances.  It is the deliberate act of preparation that can make all the difference. 

If you find yourself wavering, ask the question, “…how can I afford to continue to live the same way over and over again?” It is important to engage in these activities regularly to help create these new pathways. Commit to doing one new thing over a period of weeks. 

Listed below are areas of preparation along with examples to consider:

Spiritual-morning devotional

Musical-listening to 70’s music in the car

Cultural- visit an art exhibit

Water-Related- bath

Repetitive Movement-crotchet

Athletic-walking 

Nature-gardening or hiking

Housework-sweeping

Animal/pet-petting your cat

Altruistic-helping at a soup kitchen

For me I’ve stopped listening to the news on the way home from watching my grandsons. Instead, I’ve listened to 70’s music which has opened the floodgates of memories. Taking a break from the cares of the world has been energizing.