Julie Geller of Denver’s women’s Setting the Stage network
Living in Israel, I’ve been thinking a lot about how to continue creative work when your environment has changed. I love my home office in Denver – a closed door, my own decorations and favorite objects, my (piano) keyboard hooked up to my computer, a couch, light streaming in…
It may not be big, but it’s all mine.
Sigh.
And, although I rented a piano to use while we’re here, I don’t play it often because the walls here are so thin that my neighbors comment on the songs I play.
While it’s cool that they’re interested in my music, I’m used to my process being private and sharing only when I’m ready.
So, how do you remain creative when your environment has changed?
Here are my tricks so far:
1) Find the most private space in the moment. If you’re like me and want to keep your creative process private, be flexible about moving around. When I’m doing my creative work, I try to find whatever private space I can. Sometimes that’s my bedroom. Other times, it’s one of my kids’ rooms or my husband’s office. More often than not it means going for a walk and working something through – a melody or idea – aloud while I walk.
2) Realize that everything is part of your creative process. Yes, it’s new that my little one finishes school between 12:30 – 2:30 p.m. (3:45 – you spoiled me!), but it’s also a huge gift to have time to spend with her during the days. So I’ll work a little later at night. My loving and mothering of my kids informs my music. I’m good with writing a few fewer songs if it means I get great time with my kids. This is a long game.
3) Change your expectations. Don’t beat yourself up if you’re producing less than you normally do. Life ebbs and flows – so does creative output.
What did I miss? What would you add to this list?
With love and courage,
Julie
Setting the Stage Network