Time and Time Again

October 25, 2024


In the world of creativity, it’s easy to fall into the trap of waiting for the perfect moment to create. Many artists, writers, musicians, and creators hold out for those elusive large blocks of time—an uninterrupted weekend, a free day, or a vacation—when they can fully immerse themselves in their art. However, this mindset can be a double-edged sword. By waiting for “big time,” we often overlook the smaller, everyday opportunities that can lead to significant progress.

The Myth of Large Blocks of Time

The idea that we need a vast expanse of time to be productive is ingrained in many of us. We romanticize the concept of a day spent painting, writing, or composing—where the hours stretch ahead like an endless canvas. While there’s undeniable value in deep focus, it’s a myth that this is the only way to create meaningfully.

The truth is, life is busy. Commitments, responsibilities, and unexpected events often eat away at our time. If we cling to the notion that we must wait for an ideal scenario, we risk stagnation.

The Power of Small Moments

Imagine this: Instead of waiting for the weekend to write your novel, what if you took 10 minutes each day? A snippet of time during your morning coffee, a quick sketch during your lunch break, or jotting down ideas in a notebook while commuting. These small moments may seem insignificant, but they can accumulate quickly. Over a month, those 10 minutes can add up to several hours of creation.

Utilizing spare moments allows for flexibility. It turns the mundane into a canvas, transforming your daily routine into a creative practice. Plus, these small bursts of creativity can lead to unexpected breakthroughs and fresh ideas that you might not have discovered in a marathon session.

Creating Momentum

One of the greatest advantages of working in small increments is the momentum it builds. Each tiny achievement, whether it’s completing a paragraph, finishing a sketch, or refining a chord progression, adds to your sense of accomplishment. This momentum can fuel your creativity, leading to a cycle of inspiration and productivity.

When you’re actively creating, you’re engaging your mind in ways that passive waiting simply doesn’t. Your subconscious starts to work on your projects even when you’re not formally “in the zone.” This means that when you do find larger blocks of time, you’re not starting from scratch—you’re building on the small strides you’ve made.

Embracing the Now

The beauty of creativity is that it thrives on spontaneity and authenticity. Don’t let the quest for a perfect schedule hold you back. Instead, embrace the idea that you can create now, in the moment, no matter how small that moment may seem.

If you feel stuck, set a timer for just five minutes. Write without judgment, doodle something silly, or play around with a melody. You might surprise yourself with what you can achieve in such a short span.

Start Where You Are

Don’t wait for big blocks of time to ignite your creativity. Embrace the small moments, integrate art into your daily life, and watch how it transforms your practice. By letting go of the need for large, uninterrupted sessions, you open the door to a richer, more fulfilling creative journey.

Whether you’re an aspiring writer, painter, or musician, take that first step. Use your spare moments to create—your future self will thank you for it. Start now, and let the magic of small time propel you forward.