The Power of the Ordinary: How Everyday Rituals Spark Extraordinary Creativity
Explore the surprising ways small, mundane rituals can create the mental space for your most inspired ideas to emerge.
I have a client who likes going to Marshalls. Not necessarily to shop, but to look. And I get it, There’s a lot to notice at Marshalls.
Years ago when I was working as a mental health director at a fashion college in downtown San Francisco, I would spend my lunch break wandering the floors of Bloomingdales. A ritual of sorts. Taking in fabrics, the waistline of a dress, shoes, and occasionally the details of a perfume bottle. This noticing was different from shopping. My eyes were taking in shapes, textures and colors, rather than products or purchases. I would spend a few minutes admiring a seam, the cut of a peplum jacket. The softness and smell of expensive suede. It was in these moments that I integrated, marinated, put ideas together, and broke them apart. It was in these moments that I was an artist.
There is an expectation put on creatives to live the arts. To enjoy and honor fine art, writing, music, dance, and performance above all else. To find inspiration in these places. And yes, I do indeed love and honor all these things, but as an artist, they offer little diversity of experience. In a larger sense, “the arts” are in my wheelhouse. I salivate over a painting, I’m drawn to tears at the ballet, get chills at the opera, and easily fall in love with a book. But I understand these ideas. How the process works. As a creative, the arts are already living within me. While I might be blown away, fundamentally I understand and appreciate the decisions, motives and process. I’m in. Fully.
But there is another place, I argue, a more significant space where as creatives we integrate and begin the process of innovation.
The ordinary.
We are unfamiliar with the ordinary.
The arts are spectacular, and in embodying all that is spectacular, they are also a spectacle. If the arts speak to you, then you’ve had the experience of being deeply moved by them. Yet being moved is different from being inspired. Being moved is big, large, loud, a full body experience. It can be overwhelming in the best possible way. While these big spectacular art experiences make me feel alive and live within me, they often do not directly translate to inspiration. They are almost too extraordinary.
The arts thrill me. Nearly the same as a roller coaster. They make me feel free. Alive. Curious. The arts feed my spirit. This is essential to the creative process, but this thrill is not where my process originates. While my body and spirit are alive in these moments of extraordinary sensory experience, my creative process comes alive in moments much more quiet and ordinary.
We don’t talk about these moments. Or at least not enough. We share photos of the exhibits we visit, the ruins and archaeological sites we may see on vacation. The book stack by our bed. The performances we attend are as if to say I am an artist because I did this or that. I am an artist because I am well read. I am an artist because I witness the extraordinary. But what if we got real about where our process begins to integrate. It is not in these moments of spectacle, but in a much more ordinary space.
The creative process requires the diversity that the ordinary provides. The creative process requires ritual.
Ritual is important. It allows our analytic mind to rest and prepares us for whatever comes next. Common in sports, many athletes have pre-game rituals - everything from wearing unwashed socks to tapping a baseball bat a certain number of times on the ground before taking a hit. Derek Jeter, inarguably one of the best shortstops to ever play baseball, had an at bat ritual that drove me absolutely bananas. What was probably only a few seconds of him fiddling with the velcro on his batting gloves, then tapping his bat on the ground and then cleats seemed like an hour of preparation, especially in the playoffs.
Ritual is often an act of the ordinary. Whether it is brushing your teeth or making coffee, we engage in many rituals throughout the day. Ritual is so fascinating because it lives in this magical space where fact and faith meet. Between what we know for sure and what we can only feel.
Let’s look at some science. Scientists know that ritual better prepares us for performance. Whether it is on a test, at work, or at play. We simply perform better when we engage in ritual. In fact, we don’t even need to know what the ritual is about, or even believe in it for it to be effective. Studies have shown that asking a group of people to perform a new ritual before taking a test improves performance. This has to do of course with neuroscience. Ritual promotes thought suppression, or an ability to tune out doubt and criticism, quieting brain chatter and focusing the mind to decrease anxiety before executing complex tasks. Novelty generation or what we call the creation of new ideas involves a down-regulation of the frontal control networks of the brain, allowing these less self-conscious areas of the brain to engage. In short, ritual, whether meaningful or not, sets the stage for creativity and discovery.
About 10 years ago when I became a registered yoga teacher, I was surprised to learn that the true purpose of yoga, the sweat, the balance, the work toward alignment and getting into pose - the purpose of that 90 minute class is to prepare your body for the last 5 minutes of Shavasana. The ritual of poses, sequence, the science of it all is to prepare your mind and body for meditation.
Wild, right?
And this is what the ordinary can provide us. A place to receive and integrate all the spectacle, wonder and inspiration we take in. To create a neutral space of clarity for our ideas to emerge. A quiet moment to prepare for the action of putting it all together.
It may surprise you to know that I often reflect on the image of Derek Jeter at bat when working with clients. Part of my job is to illuminate the need for ritual. That’s one of the many reasons I include meditations in my Mentorship. Meditating even just 5 or 10 minutes a day as I ask my clients to, is a simple ritual. Add some energy work in there and those 10 minutes become the perfect ordinary space to foster the growth of the extraordinary.
And isn’t that part of what we do as creatives? Turn the ordinary, extraordinary?
Ask yourself this:
How do you engage with the ordinary in your daily life?
What are some simple, everyday rituals that help you integrate ideas or create a neutral space for your creative process?
What are some unexpected places or activities where you feel creatively inspired?
Are there any ordinary experiences that help spark your creativity?
How do you differentiate between being moved by something extraordinary and being truly inspired by it?
Reflect on a time when you felt moved by a spectacle, and another when you were inspired by something more subtle. What made those experiences different?
What rituals or practices help you quiet the noise in your mind and prepare for creative work?
Consider the role of ritual in your life. How does it help you get into a state of focus, clarity, and readiness for creative tasks?
xxx
LAS
THE CREATIVE
Welcome to The Creative. Twice a month I share quotes from the books, Art is the Highest Form of Hope and The Creative Act. I find perspectives on the creative process to be so meta when it comes to life. We are a creative process and everything we do is subject to the same rules. Creation is non-linear. It's messy. It moves forward and backward. And also gets stuck. Oftentimes we do not realize the purpose of a singular creative process until years later. Creativity likes to surprise us.
“Mistakes are almost always of a sacred nature.” - Salvador Dali
I’m probably one of the only creativity experts out there who will tell you that yes, there are absolutely mistakes in art. Gasp! I know, right?! But if you are creative for a living and your ingenuity is high stakes, then you know that yeah, there are most definitely mistakes in art no matter how you practice. A figure drawing that is intended to realistically represent the model can go horribly wrong if the proportion between the shoulder and elbow is incorrect. If the perspective is shortened or elongated on any of the limbs. A logo that is not clearly readable at multiple print sizes. These are mistakes and they are evident. This is why as creative professionals we seek feedback and engage in critiques. We don't want to make these mistakes and so we seek out help in illuminating them. Few things can distract from the overall composition of a presented body of work than a mistake of perspective or composition. It’s like reading a newspaper article with a typo. It burns the eyes a bit.
There are “no mistakes in art” quotes have been overused in social media spaces, encouraging those who fear the artistic process to dive in. There are no mistakes, you can do it, keep going, etc. And these platitudes are lovely, but play out as vapid to professionals. I imagine that the sacred nature of mistakes is that they enable us to dive into our skillset. To see where weaknesses might be, to challenge us to solve a problem differently. Or to let the mistake lead somewhere else entirely. Mistakes can change the nature of a piece of work. What happened accidentally might provide the true essence of a work and enable us to create something we didn’t know was possible. Mistakes can lead to experimentation. But this is a different kind of mistake than the one I mentioned above. Sometimes an entire painting is a mistake. We might not know it at the time. That mistake is likely to lead us to something better, more refined. A clearer expression. It is how mistakes encourage us to think critically about our work and to refine our process. This is where the sacred lies.
SOLAR TRANSIT
In Human Design, a solar transit shifts our energy as the Sun moves through Gates; use it to tap into fresh creative inspiration.
10-14-24
Gate 32
Gate of Continuity
On October 14, the sun gracefully transits Gate 32, the Gate of Continuity. During this celestial transit, you are invited to embark on a journey of endurance and long-term vision. Gate 32 encourages a deep exploration of your ability to sustain efforts and remain dedicated to your goals, emphasizing the importance of perseverance and resilience.
The energy of Gate 32 advocates for embracing the power of continuity and the strength that comes from steadfast commitment. It is a time to honor your ability to endure and to recognize the importance of maintaining focus on your long-term objectives. This gate emphasizes the importance of patience and the wisdom to recognize that true progress often unfolds over time. By allowing yourself the space to persist and stay committed, you gain the ability to navigate challenges with resilience and determination.
However, this energy comes with its own challenges. Those experiencing the transit of Gate 32 may struggle with feelings of impatience or fear of failure. The urge to abandon long-term goals or to become disheartened by setbacks can be strong. It is crucial to recognize that the power of Gate 32 lies in its ability to foster unwavering dedication and the belief in the value of sustained effort. By resisting the urge to give up, you can harness the full potential of this gate’s energy.
To enhance the frequency of Gate 32, cultivate practices that support perseverance and long-term planning. Engage in activities such as goal-setting, strategic planning, or any method that helps you stay focused on your objectives. This period is ideal for reflecting on your long-term vision and the steps needed to achieve your goals. By embracing your capacity for continuity, you create a space for sustained progress and enduring success.
Gate 32 tasks you with the opportunity to develop resilience and a strong sense of commitment. It is a reminder that true success often requires patience and that maintaining focus on your long-term vision is essential for achieving your goals. This gate also provides a chance to reflect on how you can use your endurance to support and inspire others. Consider how your ability to persist and stay committed can positively influence those around you.
Here are some journaling prompts to deepen your understanding and engagement with this transit:
1. Reflect on your relationship with perseverance: How comfortable are you with sustaining efforts and remaining dedicated to your goals? Consider how continuity can enhance your ability to achieve long-term success.
2. Explore your resilience: Are there areas in your life where you tend to abandon goals or become disheartened by setbacks? Reflect on how you can cultivate more patience and unwavering dedication.
3. Contemplate your long-term vision: How can you use this period to refine and focus on your long-term objectives? Consider the steps you need to take to stay committed to your goals.
4. Consider your impact on others: How does your ability to persist and stay committed influence those around you? Reflect on how you can support and inspire others with your resilience and dedication.
By embracing the energy of Gate 32, you can unlock your potential for perseverance and enduring success. This transit encourages you to trust in the power of continuity and to approach each long-term goal with dedication and resilience.
PROMPT!!
Do you know about Tapping? It can be an effective addition to energy work and nervous system regulation. Many of my Mentorship clients include Tapping as part of their daily ritual. You can learn more about Tapping and how to do it below.
EFT - Emotional Freedom Technique Tapping Prompt for this transit.
“Even though it makes me anxious to stay committed to my long-term goals and sustain my efforts, I now trust that perseverance and continuity bring great moments of progress and success, and I deeply and completely love and accept myself.”
FULL MOON
In Human Design and astrology, the lunar cycles shift our energy as the moon moves through Gates and zodiac signs; use it to tap into fresh creative inspiration.
10-17-24
Aries
Gate 42: The Gate of Growth
The upcoming Full Moon on October 17, 2024, in Aries heralds a period of dynamic energy and initiation. Aries, the bold and assertive Fire sign, governs this lunar phase, emphasizing themes of courage, independence, and new beginnings. This celestial event occurs in the 1st House, highlighting our sense of self, identity, and our approach to personal growth and leadership.
Aries, ruled by Mars, encourages us to take bold steps forward and assert our individuality. It invites us to embrace our passions, pursue our goals with enthusiasm, and pioneer new paths. This Full Moon prompts us to initiate action, assert our desires, and embrace opportunities for personal and professional growth.
Paired with Gate 42, The Gate of Growth in Human Design, this Full Moon amplifies our potential for expansion and evolution. Gate 42 invites us to embrace change as a natural part of growth, encouraging us to step out of our comfort zones and explore new possibilities. It challenges us to cultivate resilience, adaptability, and a willingness to learn from experiences.
This Full Moon in Aries and Gate 42 invites us to harness the fiery energy of Aries to propel ourselves forward on our personal and professional journeys. It encourages us to embrace challenges as opportunities for growth and to trust in our abilities to overcome obstacles.
Journal Prompts to Deepen Your Full Moon Experience
1. Reflect on your personal goals: What ambitions or desires are you ready to pursue with courage and determination? How can you align your actions with your passions during this transformative period?
2. Explore your sense of identity: How do you define yourself and your role in the world? What aspects of your identity are you ready to assert more confidently?
3. Evaluate your approach to change: How comfortable are you with embracing change and uncertainty? What mindset shifts can you make to view challenges as opportunities for growth?
4. Contemplate new beginnings: Are there areas of your life where you feel called to initiate new projects or relationships? How can you set intentions for growth and expansion in these areas?
Embrace the energy of this Full Moon in Aries and Gate 42 as an opportunity to ignite your passions, assert your individuality, and embark on a journey of personal and professional growth. Allow yourself to embrace courage, initiative, and resilience as you navigate this transformative lunar phase.
SOLAR TRANSIT
In Human Design, a solar transit shifts our energy as the Sun moves through Gates; use it to tap into fresh creative inspiration.
10-19-24
Gate 50
Gate of Values
On October 19, the sun gracefully transits Gate 50, the Gate of Values. During this celestial transit, you're invited to embark on a deeply introspective voyage of self-discovery. Gate 50 provides a unique opportunity to delve deep into your inner realm, focusing on transcending guilt and obligations that often leave you feeling drained. It encourages you to prioritize self-nurturing, recognizing that by filling yourself up first, you are better equipped to embrace your innate gifts and serve others in the highest possible way.
This transit prompts you to reflect on the alignment between your values and your actions. Are you practicing what you preach? Can you prioritize self-care before tending to the needs of others? It encourages you to release draining obligations rooted in scarcity and instead align with opportunities that ignite your passion and enthusiasm.
Gate 50 extends an invitation to dive deep into your ability to care for yourself.
As you explore this gate, you'll emerge with a heightened sense of trust in your own
Authority and Strategy as guides. Embrace this transit as it propels you forward on your journey of self-discovery, supporting your values along the way.
Here are some journaling prompts to deepen your understanding and engagement with this transit:
1. Do I find it challenging to prioritize and attend to my own needs and well-being?
2. Is guilt a driving force behind my tendency to say yes to draining obligations?
3. How does it feel when I can sustain my energy and vitality effectively?
4. Am I typically operating from a place of depletion or fulfillment in my daily life?
PROMPT!!
Do you know about Tapping? It can be an effective addition to energy work and nervous system regulation. Many of my Mentorship clients include Tapping as part of their daily ritual. You can learn more about Tapping and how to do it below.
EFT - Emotional Freedom Technique Tapping Prompt for this transit.
“Even though it is hard for me to give and receive love without guilt, I now choose to be completely open to receiving deep and unconditional love, starting by deeply and completely loving and accepting myself.”
Have a great week exploring this transit! Ready to learn more about your Human Design? Hit the buttons below to schedule a reading with me and download the free Human Design information sheets to learn more!
I love this observation. In our house, before dawn, my husband, a conceptual artist, makes Morning Irish Porridge - takes about an hour - while I go for my Morning Swim (thus my posts of that name). These rituals are good for the body, bracing for the soul, and support a resident space for creative insights. Simple acts, done with awareness. So glad you talked about all the ways we can do this!
I’ve always found “quieting the noise” in the lead up to doing anything creative, at least personally, to change drastically depending on the task, which is fascinating to think back on .
How our personal rituals can be inherently similar but wholly unique.
When I was involved in theatre, for example, if I was on-stage, I needed absolute quiet before I went on (well, as much as possible) but if I was behind the scenes, I always needed to talk through everything twice over. A byproduct, I suspect now, in dealing with an entirely different set of nerves.
Writing is different too (in that I can do so virtually anywhere) but if it is work that is more personal then the ritual, as it were, simply becomes trusting my instincts that it is good enough to publish, to put out there, even if it something that may not land with everyone that sees it. And finding that balance is forever an on-going process - although that’s part of the fun, isn't it?
Great work as always, Lisa!