Chapter 1: Finding Comfort in Creativity

Everyone seeks solace in different ways—be it a cozy bed, a delightful meal, an engaging book, or the embrace of a loved one. But why not explore a realm of creativity and personal growth?

I have a variety of hobbies, including playing the Western flute, Native American flute, pan flute, harmonica, video games, singing, dancing, crocheting, painting, and hula-hooping. Frequently, I hear remarks like, “I wish I could do that,” or “I’m not as creative or talented.” But who established that hobbies must involve a certain level of expertise?

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In today’s world, many of us, myself included, tend to overanalyze everything. We feel the need to have all the answers before we take action. But how much of life are we missing by thinking this way? This mindset is simply unhealthy.

Living with depression is a struggle I know all too well. Since my brother's passing when I was nine, I have been battling it. Depression feels like being trapped in thick mud, making it nearly impossible to escape. It’s akin to being enveloped in a dense fog—disorienting yet somehow comforting, providing a shield from the outside world. It’s a relentless cycle of negative self-talk and emptiness. However, I can confidently say that I have been free from that darkness for five years now, and I never want to return.

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While I have always enjoyed hobbies, I often approached them with a perfectionist mindset, as if someone were constantly judging my work. It was only when I decided to engage in my hobbies without concern for perfection—allowing myself to be messy, carefree, and focused on my feelings—that I began to experience true release. Many of us here likely began writing as a hobby.

For some, writing may still be a creative outlet, but if it’s tied to other expectations—like making money or honing a craft—it might not serve as your sole means of mental relief. Initially, writing was my outlet for venting pain and thoughts; now, it has evolved into my passion, with my other hobbies serving as delightful additions.

Image by mohamed Hassan from Pixabay

The key to enjoying your hobbies is to view them as a form of meditation—an expression of your inner voice—rather than a chore. If an activity feels overwhelming, don’t hesitate to step back. You can always try again later or explore a different interest. The goal is to shift your mindset to one of willingness. One day, you’ll find yourself eager to pick up that paintbrush, and that was another avenue that helped me navigate my darker days: transforming just one negative thought into a positive one.

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At one point, I was skeptical of positivity because I perceived those who preached it as disingenuous, masking their own pain while promoting an unrealistic notion of perpetual happiness. It's true that no one can remain positive all the time, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn't strive to introduce positivity into your life.

Interestingly, the pandemic prompted many to discover new hobbies, particularly cooking and baking—there was a time when yeast was a rare find in stores! This period encouraged people to reflect on their interests, leading many to either rediscover their passions or uncover new ones.

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Research indicates that engaging in hobbies can enhance mental health and may even reduce the risk of developing dementia later in life.

So, what’s holding you back? It’s time to take a breath and explore your interests.

What hobbies do you cherish?

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