#65 Creativity: Why It Belongs in Your Everyday Life
- Melissa Rolfes
- Jul 29
- 3 min read
When most people hear the word creativity, they think of painting, music, or writing. And while those are beautiful forms of creative expression, they only scratch the surface of what creativity truly is. Creativity isn’t limited to artists or “artsy” people. It’s not about being good at drawing or having a perfect Instagram craft. At its core, creativity is about how you think, how you solve problems, how you express yourself, and how you connect with the world. It’s a mindset—a way of engaging with life that invites curiosity, flexibility, and imagination.
And here’s something you may not hear often enough: You are already creative—even if you don’t see yourself that way.
A Personal Note
I know what it feels like to carry some of those assumptions about creativity. As a professional artist, I’ve had people tell me, “Oh, I’m not creative like you,” or “I could never do what you do.” But what they don’t see is that creativity has been a thread throughout my life—long before I ever picked up a paintbrush professionally.
Before I became an artist, I worked as a biologist, and even there, creativity was at the core of how I approached challenges and made discoveries. I had to think critically, adapt, observe patterns, and look for connections others might miss.
I’m also a fitness and Pilates instructor, and believe me—teaching movement requires creativity, too. Designing sequences, adjusting to people’s needs, reading energy in the room, and finding ways to motivate and inspire others—those all come from a creative place. I use imagination and intuition as much as knowledge and technique.
So while art is one of my favorite forms of creative expression, I live creatively in everything I do—and you can too.
So, what is creativity?
Creativity is the ability to generate new ideas, make unexpected connections, and express your inner world in ways that are uniquely your own. It’s about curiosity, exploration, and allowing yourself to think beyond the obvious. It doesn’t have to be polished or perfect—it just has to be yours. When we expand our definition of creativity, we give ourselves permission to experience it more fully. And once you do, you’ll find it’s not only enjoyable—it’s transformative.
Why Creativity Matters (Even If You Don’t Think You’re Creative)
It Boosts Brainpower
Creative activities stimulate and strengthen your brain. Whether you're journaling,
problem-solving, or planning a class, creativity improves memory, attention, and
mental flexibility.
It Encourages Self-Expression
Creativity gives you a way to express what you’re thinking and feeling—especially
when words fall short. It’s a safe space to explore your inner world and share it in
your own way.
It Sparks Self-Discovery
The more you engage with creative activities, the more you learn about yourself—
your passions, preferences, values, and dreams. It brings clarity and insight that
fuels personal growth.
It Builds Emotional Resilience
Through creative expression—whether movement, writing, or visual art—you can
process emotions, work through challenges, and find strength in uncertainty.
It Promotes Mindfulness
Creative tasks pull you into the present moment. Whether you're painting, moving
your body, or tinkering with a new idea, that sense of flow brings calm, clarity, and joy.
It Fosters Innovation
Creativity allows you to think in new ways, solve problems more effectively, and find
original approaches to everyday situations—at home, at work, or in relationships.
It Cultivates Patience and Focus
The creative process teaches us to slow down, stick with something through trial
and error, and find satisfaction in the unfolding—not just the result.
Start Where You Are
You don’t need to change your career, buy expensive supplies, or create a masterpiece. You just need to be open to exploring what feels fun, curious, or meaningful. Try a five-minute journal entry. Cook a recipe with your own twist. Rearrange a space. Move your body in a new way.
Let it be playful. Creativity lives in small moments, and it grows the more you use it.
The more you say yes to creativity, the more joy, connection, and intention you’ll invite into
your everyday life.
Check out some of my past blogs filled with creative activities to get your started. On the top right of my blog site, you can type, “creative activities mindfulness” or “creative activities patience” and any blogs relating to the particular topic you typed in will come up.
Be sure to jump on my email list and connect with me. I have so many exciting things coming up and by signing up you’ll get exclusive content, more ideas on how to embrace your creativity and harness your mindset for growth and transformation, and a front-row seat to all my latest projects, behind-the-scenes glimpses, and special announcements. I’d love for you to be part of this journey and share in the creativity! Sign up HERE!

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