Creativity Is Good for Your Soul. Here’s Why.
- ngzhejinn
- Jan 23
- 3 min read
Humans are inherently creative creatures, although these days, we tend to split ourselves into binaries: "I'm a creative person," or "I'm not a creative person." Take a step back ten, twenty, thirty years: you're eight years old, doodling on a napkin, carving love letters onto tree barks, picking up a dusty guitar. Chances are, you were not thinking whether you were "creative" or not, you were just creating.
"Every child is an artist. The problem is how to remain an artist once we grow up."
Pablo Picasso
What's changed? For the most part, categorising creative endeavours as something we're either "good" or "bad" at has stifled our creative urge. Made us passive, fearful, stagnant. But here's the kicker: you don't have to create for the sake of producing "great art." Create simply because it's good for the soul, and here's why.
It Makes You Happier
A study shows that people who were involved in creative activities were "happier and more active when they were performing something creative." It sounds so simple perhaps because it is that simple. This is not to say that being creative directly equates to being happy, but creative activities have therapeutic, healing, and fulfilling qualities, all of which contribute to our overall happiness.
It's a Form of Therapy
The rise and popularity of art therapy is a testament to the benefits creativity has on our mental well-being. According to a small study, "5 minutes of art-making [...] reduced cortisol levels (a stress hormone) in 75% of people." More research has shown that engaging in a creative act reduces symptoms of anxiety and depression as well. For reasons like meditative focus, self-expression, mindfulness and encouraging playfulness, doing something creative can significantly improve mental well-being.
It Allows You to Express Yourself
It is no secret that creativity is a form of self-expression, but what does that really mean? Imagine this: you just got broken up with, so you open your notes app and write a poem. Or this: your birthday is next week, and you're scrolling through Pinterest, saving a hundred inspirational pictures to plan your dream dinner party. Or maybe this: you're meeting a friend for breakfast, and you’re tearing through your wardrobe to piece together the perfect, casual brunch fit.
All of these are everyday examples of creative acts that are deeply personal expressions of who we are and what we feel. In these small, largely overlooked acts of creativity, we connect with our emotions, explore our values, and craft a sense of belonging in this scary, brilliant world. In doing so, we nourish our souls, finding meaning and fulfilment in both the ordinary and extraordinary moments of life.
Practising an art, no matter how badly, is a way to make your soul grow, for heaven's sake. Sing in the shower. Dance to the radio. Tell stories. Write a poem to a friend, even a lousy poem. Do it as well as you possibly can. You will get an enormous reward. You will have created something.
Kurt Vonnegut
Start Creating with Synonym Lab
At Synonym Lab, we provide a safe, judgment-free space where you can explore your creativity and connect with a vibrant community in London. With our membership, you’ll enjoy two mystery creative activities each month, along with a monthly creative social where creativity meets connection.
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