Introduction
Life moves fast, and in the chaos of daily responsibilities, it’s easy to let creativity slip through the cracks. Like many busy professionals, I found myself overwhelmed, disconnected from my artistic side, and longing for a creative outlet. That’s when I turned to oil painting, and it changed everything.
Incorporating art into a hectic schedule seemed impossible at first, but I discovered practical ways to make time for creativity. Through this journey, I’ve learned valuable lessons that not only improved my painting skills but also reignited my passion for self-expression. If you’ve ever felt creatively drained, this guide is for you.
1. Prioritising Creativity as Self-Care
We often neglect creativity because it feels like an “extra” rather than a necessity. However, I quickly realised that oil painting wasn’t just a hobby—it was a form of self-care. Just as we prioritise exercise or meditation, making time for creative expression helps reduce stress and improve mental clarity.
TIP: Schedule “art time” into your calendar just like an important meeting. Even 15-30 minutes can make a difference.
2. Finding Small Pockets of Time
A common misconception is that painting requires hours of uninterrupted focus. In reality, small pockets of time can add up! I started by setting aside short bursts of creativity—even during lunch breaks or before bedtime.
TIP: Break down your painting process into steps. One day, sketch your idea. The next, block in colours. Progress is progress, no matter how small.
3. Creating a Dedicated Art Space
One of the biggest challenges to incorporating art into a hectic schedule is setting up and cleaning up. I solved this by creating a dedicated painting space—even a small corner of a room—where my supplies are always ready to go.
TIP: Keep your essentials (brushes, paints, and canvases) organised and within reach. The less effort it takes to set up, the more likely you are to paint.
4. Letting Go of Perfectionism
Early on, I stressed over making every painting perfect. But I’ve learned that the act of painting is more important than the final result. Embracing imperfections allowed me to enjoy the process rather than obsess over details.
TIP: Give yourself permission to create without judgment. Experiment with colours, textures, and techniques freely.
5. Using Art as a Stress Reliever
After a long workday, painting became my escape from stress. Unlike scrolling on my phone or watching TV, it engaged my mind in a healthy, meditative way.
TIP: Turn painting into a ritual—play your favourite music, light a candle, and let your creativity flow.
6. Finding Inspiration in Everyday Life
You don’t have to wait for inspiration to strike! I began noticing colour palettes in nature, patterns in architecture, and emotions in everyday moments. Everything can be art.
TIP: Carry a small sketchbook or use your phone to capture inspiring visuals throughout the day.
7. Trying Different Techniques to Stay Motivated
Repetition can lead to burnout. Whenever I felt uninspired, I experimented with new techniques, such as palette knife painting or monochrome studies.
TIP: Set mini-challenges for yourself, like painting with only three colours or using only a palette knife.
8. Connecting With Other Artists
Creativity thrives in community. I joined online artist groups and engaged with fellow painters, which kept me inspired and accountable.
TIP: Join a local art club or follow artists on social media to stay connected and inspired.
9. Documenting My Progress
Looking back at my early paintings reminded me how much I had grown. Keeping a painting journal or taking progress photos helped me appreciate my artistic journey.
TIP: Share your progress on social media or a blog to motivate yourself and inspire others.
10. Embracing the Journey, Not Just the Destination
The most valuable lesson I’ve learned? Creativity is a lifelong journey. Every painting, no matter how small, contributes to your growth as an artist and as a person.
TIP: Enjoy the process without fixating on the final product. Creativity is meant to be freeing, not stressful.
Conclusion
Incorporating art into a hectic schedule may seem daunting, but it’s possible with the right mindset and strategies. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned artist struggling to find time, remember: creativity is not a luxury—it’s a necessity for self-expression and well-being.
If you’re feeling inspired, set aside time today to pick up that paintbrush and start your own journey. You deserve it!
Have you struggled with making time for creativity? Drop a comment below—I’d love to hear your experience!