TL;DR:
Finding creative satisfaction while living with physical limitations requires adapting to and accepting constraints.
Watch a video to hear some tried and tested ways to adapt.
Play with the creative prompts at the end, take your chosen action, and join the conversation below.
Written with my own words, I don’t use GenAI (here’s why)
What does it mean to have power and influence in your life? Particularly when going through struggles, pain or unwanted changes?
A short while ago I conducted research into creativity and wellbeing. For many of the people I spoke with, living with the impacts of chronic illness, disability and physical limitations came up. Creativity (including art-making) can be a way to experience freedom from such constraints; at the same time, those same constraints can make access to creative expression difficult.
This topic is also personal for me. Over the past year and a half, I’ve had a worsening health situation, tied to routine healthcare gone wrong. My healthcare professional tried to repair the damage but unfortunately made things worse, which has led to some severe impacts. The point of my sharing this situation is to say I too am exploring what it looks like to live with reduced capacity due to factors often beyond my control. Perhaps this is something you’ve experienced, now or previously.
Illness and physical constraints are a part of living a creative life and sometimes these conditions stay or worsen. Adapting and finding ways to create with these conditions is part of the path to creative satisfaction.
I've made a short video to open up the conversation, so I would love it if you can watch and perhaps comment to share what you’ve found helps, or any questions you have. Or just hit reply to share with me directly. And if you're a YT watcher, please subscribe while you're there.
💡 Over to you…
Have you found ways to stay creative and satisfied in the body you have today? What does this look like, for you?
How are you finding creative activities that work for you in your body as it is, today - when what used to work, no longer does?
Imagine a world where the structures support the creative wellbeing and joy of all living beings. What do you see in this world? What do you taste, hear, feel, smell? Document your reflections with words and or images.
What’s one tiny, delightful action you can take THIS WEEK to cultivate that world? Schedule it into your calendar, and share below how you go!
I love creative conversations so if any of this resonates with you, please comment below and lets explore together.
🔁 Please remember to share with folx you know who might also enjoy this.
If you want some focused support to bring your creative dream to life, get in touch to arrange an obligation-free call to check if coaching with me is a good fit for you.
I am committed to honouring the wellbeing, creativity and leadership of every person. If I can help you or your team with this journey please reach out by contacting me here. Learn more about my coaching services here and workshops and facilitation here.