Finding Yourself Again Through Creative Hobbies

I’ve recently uncovered some hobbies I used to enjoy before a major depressive episode took hold. For a long time, I wasn’t interested in doing anything. I didn’t care (but deep down, I did) about being productive or creative. I couldn’t find the inspiration or motivation for anything, and it felt like a piece of me had gone missing.

But once I began rediscovering who I am, that creative spark slowly returned. I started writing again, reading new books and exploring genres I’d never tried before, and even coloring when I need to relax and calm my mind. I never thought I would find strength in passion again—but I did.

One of my closest friends has also been a huge source of inspiration for me. She’s what I’d call a creative genius—an intellect, a musician, and a lover of all things artsy. Maybe it’s because I’ve known her since preschool, but she has a way of bringing out the kid in me. She reminds me that it’s still okay to be lighthearted, playful, and free.

She frequently makes threaded bracelets, paints birdhouses, fills wish jars, writes poetry, and crafts with such detail and care. She’s about to get married, and she even designed every little aspect of her wedding herself. (She’s very particular—in the most beautiful way.) Watching her create has inspired me to loosen up, to try new things, and most importantly, to be less critical of myself.

I’ve never thought of myself as an “artist.” I can’t really draw, paint, or craft in the traditional sense. I’ve always had a hard time paying attention, and as a kid, I was never the one to stay inside the lines.  But still, I try my best to do those projects because they’re entertaining and fun.  I don’t let my lack of abilities disparage the skills I do have. 

The point is, I’m being more creative in ways I couldn’t have imagined years ago. And that creativity has given me light, healing, and a sense of connection to myself again.  It’s reminded me that creativity doesn’t have to be perfect, polished, or even “productive” to matter.  It can be messy, playful, and simple.

The thing that matters most is the way that it makes me feel, which is calm, inspired, and alive.  Picking an old hobby or trying something new is allowing myself to explore, express, and enjoy the process without judgement.  In many ways, it’s like rediscovering parts of myself.  Every page I write, every book I finish, every color I lay down feels like joy is always obtainable.  

What hobbies or passions have you rediscovered that bring you joy?