We’re approaching four months now since I left my full-time job to go out on my own. When I decided to take a leap of faith and bet on myself, there were many factors I considered. Would I be happy working for myself? Could I be productive without co-workers? Who is going to make sure I stay on track? But I never wondered if it would have an effect on my creativity. Yet, that’s the one thing I discovered: being my own boss has made me a more creative person.
I’ve always known that I am someone who thrives under pressure. In college, I loved working against deadlines. However, I’m not entirely crazy, and I only pulled an all-nighter once (literally because I had four papers due at the same time—and it’s something that I wholeheartedly do not recommend). But it seems this knack for knowing just what to write when I’m up against the clock also transfers to when I need to be creative in a pinch. I chalk this up to realizing that there are only so many hours in a day—and usually, there’s a lot to get done in my day—so I need to bring my A-game (and a plan) when I go to create things now. Whether it’s writing a blog post or filming a Reel, there’s something about knowing that I don’t have time to procrastinate that makes me focus more. Also, my time now is “billable,” which puts things in a different light. From Reels that used to take me forever to produce and create to brainstorming for blog posts, I find it much easier these days to get it all done in less time—and do a better job!
I also credit having more time outdoors with helping me unlock some new-found creativity. Being in nature has given me tons of great ideas that have trickled down to my blog, client work, and social media. But in working for myself, I’ve noticed a new level of confidence blossom, which has made being a creative easier and more exciting. Instead of feeling like I have to cram content creation into my day, it now feels like a piece of my day that I can actually enjoy, and the enjoyment of it, has allowed more creative ideas to percolate.
So, in essence, if one of your goals this year is to become more creative, maybe you don’t need to quit your job and go out on your own. But start small and find enjoyment in the creative process in whatever way works for you.
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