I often say to myself, “I need a friend group.” But not just any friend group—I need one filled with creative minds, people bursting with ideas and fresh perspectives. I want to learn from others, to absorb stories I’d never hear if left to my own company. I want to feel like I’m not the only one in the world with creativity coursing through my veins.
Currently, the people around me are painfully square. Conversations are shallow, predictable, and rigid. I try to sneak in humor or a bit of silliness, but all I get are confused looks—like when I squeeze a squeaky toy and my pug cocks his head from side to side in utter bewilderment.
What happened to creativity in society? How can someone wake up in the morning and only think about routine? Perhaps there’s no thinking at all—just moving with the current, going through the motions. A life without creativity is merely existing, not thriving. I, on the other hand, thrive when I create. I look forward to drawing on my iPad, crafting color palettes, sketching comics, and designing personalized planners. I look forward to writing whatever comes to mind, shaping words into something uniquely mine. Creativity keeps me alive.
But what do you do when everyone around you seems uninterested in creative expression?
Podcasts!
A simple search for “creativity” will lead you to a goldmine of creators eager to share insights and ideas. One of my favorites is Andy J. Pizza. He even starts his podcast with a little jingle:
“On your creative journey, it’s easy to get lost. But don’t worry, you’ll lift off!”
His podcast is full of creative pep talks—exactly what you need when you’re in a slump. He also has classes on Skillshare, so you can dive even deeper into the creative process.
Pinterest!
Instead of mindlessly doom-scrolling, I turn to Pinterest. I search for literally anything—new projects, color schemes, DIY ideas. It’s where I organize my next creative obsession, pinning everything into neatly curated boards. The only downside? I overload myself with ideas. I have to remind myself that I can’t do it all. But oh, how I want to do it all!
Library!
My local library’s Facebook page is a hidden gem, always posting about upcoming events. This week, they’re hosting a craft supply swap, where members exchange old materials for something new. I was thinking of showing up with my crochet hooks and yarn, but I hesitate—what if I suddenly want to crochet again? (Cue existential crafting crisis.)
Libraries are full of creative opportunities, from workshops to book clubs, and they’re a great way to meet like-minded people. Who knows? That elusive creative friend group I’ve been searching for might just be waiting for me between the shelves.
Not everyone is meant to be creative. We all have different purposes in life, and the world has room for all types of personalities. But as a creative person, it can feel isolating when those around you don’t share that spark. The good news? Creativity isn’t something you have to do alone. With a little effort, you can find the right people and resources to fuel your imagination—and maybe even create a space where creativity isn’t the exception, but the norm.
AuthKG 