8 (Inexpensive) Resources to Tap Into Your Creativity

Turns out, I am the worst offender at taking advantage of down time. And, no, that’s not a humble brag. I feel like I’ve been trying to cram as much as possible into every moment of isolation. It’s as if I feel like I’m not going to get another opportunity like this to really capitalize on things being “slower.” That being said, I wholeheartedly agree with the trending article about not needing to fulfill the productivity desire during this pandemic. I need to listen to that more and will see if I’m successful as this situation continues. In the meantime, I know we are all trying to practice some self-care in the form of creative outlets and I thought a few free resources might be just what we need right now. Give your creativity a voice and do it all for free...y’all know I’m all about saving a few bucks. 😉

1. Sign up for the Creative Market or click on the “Get Free Goods” link on their website

If you aren’t familiar with Creative Market, this is a resources for creatives that can really provide a wealth of inspiration. From different types of fonts to photos, design templates, and more - you can purchase or find free products that are such fun to play with. For example, print some fonts of your choice in a dark color, place a blank white sheet on top, and trace the design as if styling the letters yourself (one can dream, right?). Or, let your kids get creative with screen time and make a collage in Canva. The opportunities are limitless! 

2. Learn how to write a song - for free

Go from singing covers in the shower...to singing original content!

Your inner singer-songwriter has been waiting for this moment. Nobody needs to hear your creation, unless you want to share it with the world and why wouldn’t you? This free course on Udemy will teach you the basics of creating lyrics, telling a story, and improving communication through song. All you need is a computer or mobile device, journal, pen, and headphones. I can’t wait to hear what you create!

3. Free Home Designer Tools

I don’t know about you, but the more I sit around the house / apartment with Cliff, the more I notice the improvements that need to be made. And, the thought of those improvements leads to ideas and a wish list that will only partially be realized. One can dream, though, and that’s where home design apps are a fun resource! I’m including a helpful link from Freshome Team that outlines several different options, depending upon the functionality you need. Some of you may be serious about renovation projects and are going to capitalize on your time. For the rest of us, it’s fun to think about what minor changes can be made now and what needs to happen “down the road.”

4. Create Memes

Memes are going to get us through - the little bit of levity that makes our brains not spin out of control. We should draw a distinction between making light of something serious and the need to have tools that help us process very depressing news. As long as the memes are created in good taste, there is no reason they shouldn’t be able to give us a boost. Instead of just enjoying them, tell everyone what your experience is by making some of your own! If you have your own picture to use, you can easily create a meme on Canva. Otherwise, you can use a free meme generator online - like Filmora. Create away! 

5. Virtual make-up try-on

Regardless of brand allegiance, almost every makeup retailer with an online presence has the virtual try-on opportunity. While we are out of the public eye for a while (besides social media, of course), now is the time to try some new make-up ideas. And, testing these out virtually is a great way to give everything a run-through before purchasing! Nothing beats in-person trials, but we are all for getting our beauty handled with super safe social distancing. Here is a link to Ulta’s GlamLab: https://www.ulta.com/innovation/glamlab/. Make sure you are sitting in good lighting and give it a go! 

6. New Twist on Tried & True Recipes 

If you still have the patience to cook right now, switch up an old recipe! Add or substitute certain flavors in baked goods, for example. Take a cookie batter recipe and bake it in a cast iron skillet or round cake pan for your version of a cookie cake (just stay near the oven to monitor browning).

Add dried fruit to a cookie mix, or top brownies with your favorite frosting. I'm all about staying healthy, but mental health (and some indulgence) is just as important! One of my favorite baked goods with a twist is Cinnamon Pecan Banana Bread. It smells like a hug from your grandmother while baking, and that's the kind of motivation we need to get through the day right now.

7. Delish.com Online Cooking Classes

I'm sure you're already familiar with the delightful food videos streamed on Facebook by Delish, but they also provide recipes for kids! Check out their Facebook page for more information.

8. House Hunters: Home Fort Edition

Fair warning - this works best with more than one person and a little space, but if you have a few folks in your place of isolation, make your own House Hunters: Fort Edition using materials from around the house. Each kid, for example, can create their space and then showcase it to Mom and Dad for an ultimate “winner.” To make sure no feelings get hurt, it is probably best to let each kid win at some point or have the winner help sit out the next round and serve as the “buyer” until everyone has won. 

If you try any of these, I would just love to see the results! There is no “right or wrong” when it comes to your creative mindset, so keep tapping into it and let the world see what is helping isolation feel a little more manageable.

Until next time, cheers to your #hearthhealthhappiness!