Welcome to 2016! Have you ever noticed how many amazing movies come out this time of year? It seems like Hollywood saves the good stuff for winter! And it makes sense — more people go see movies in the winter, after all. What else are we going to do in this cold weather? But, as usual, it has got me thinking.
We have so much art and entertainment at our fingertips these days–we are truly a consumer culture. We don’t even have to go to a theatre to see a film; we don’t have to go to a bookstore to buy a book, either. We don’t even have to commit to reading an entire book, not when there is a plethora of fascinating and entertaining articles all over the web!
We are experts at consuming.
But what about the practice of creating instead of consuming? There seems to be this cultural idea that we have to be really skilled at something to spend our time enjoying it, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. Spending time doing something creative has proven emotional and physical health benefits, and even though it might take a little more effort, it can really bring people together— or serve to inspire you in your own quiet time.
Where do you send your creative energy? Consider trying something new this week, even if you think you might not be skilled enough to do it ‘right.’ Take a stab at writing poetry. Plunk around on your piano. Paint something with your child or partner. Instead of inviting the gang to a movie, invite everyone over for a collage night! Take some risks, try something new, and enjoy the benefits it brings you.
