Creativity isn’t about being “good” at something—it’s about letting yourself play, explore, and see the world in new ways. Once a week, I like to carve out a little time for creative rituals. They don’t require talent, fancy supplies, or even much time. They just give me space to express myself, which feels surprisingly freeing at this stage of life.
Here are the weekly creative practices that light me up and keep life from feeling too serious.
1. A Journal Prompt Session
Once a week, I give myself a simple prompt (no, not the ChatGPT kind), something like, “What made me smile this week?” or “What do I want more of in my life?” Then I just write without worrying about neatness or structure. It’s not about the words being perfect; it’s about getting thoughts out of my head and onto paper. As I’ve aged, I have a tendency to forget, so these little sessions help me (and I can go back and read them later).
My tip: I set a timer for ten minutes, so I don’t overthink. Knowing there’s an end makes me feel freer to let the pen move. HOWEVER, If I’m inspired, I’ll keep going, of course.
2. A Doodle Break
You don’t need to be an artist to doodle. I like to just grab a piece of scrap paper (I usually just open my printer drawer and grab a fresh sheet of printer paper) and let myself draw shapes, squiggles, or even silly little sketches. It’s more relaxing than scrolling through my phone, and I’m always surprised at how much it unlocks creativity elsewhere in my life.
My tip: I also keep a Moleskine type of notebook (the ones with blank pages) just for doodles for when I have important calls to make. It turns waiting on hold into playtime.
3. A Music Moment
I do this one a little more often (at least 4 or 5 times a week). I put on a song I love and let myself sing or dance like nobody’s watching. Music has a way of opening you up creatively, even if you’re not making it yourself. It’s about energy, not performance.
My tip: I pick a “theme song” for the week and play it when I need a boost. By Friday, it feels like my personal soundtrack. I also LOVE, LOVE, LOVE learning all of the words to the song (just like I did when I was young). For me, it’s usually a Jason Mraz or Colbie Caillat song.
4. A Hands-On Project
Creativity often comes alive when your hands are busy, so I try something tactile—like baking, arranging flowers, knitting (my mother taught me to knit when I was a child, and it’s something that I had tucked away and not done for years), or even rearranging a shelf. It doesn’t matter if it’s practical or whimsical; the act of making something shifts my mindset.
My tip: I start small. One drawer, one cake, one tiny bouquet. Little wins build momentum without overwhelm.
5. A Curiosity Capture
At 71, I don’t want to lose the child in me, so I explore one thing that sparks my curiosity. Maybe I look up how something is made, watch a how-to video, or try a new recipe. Creativity often begins with simply following your curiosity down a little path. Plus, my mother always told me that you can do anything that you set out to do, if you can just read the directions, so looking things up often starts the wheels turning in my brain and gives me some ideas for writing or finding a new creative outlet or hobby.
My tip: Why not keep a “curiosity list” in your notebook? Anytime you think, “I wonder how that works?” write it down. It makes choosing your weekly spark much easier.
Wrapping It Up
Creativity doesn’t have to be complicated or intimidating. With small rituals like writing a prompt, doodling, singing, making something with your hands, or chasing curiosity, you give yourself permission to play.
Because creativity isn’t about talent. It’s about joy. And AT LEAST once a week (and if you have the time, do it DAILY), joy is exactly what we all need.
