Embracing Your Creative Side as an Educator: Developing your Creativity and Leading by Example
As educators, we pour so much of ourselves into the growth and development of our students that it’s easy to forget our own creative spark. We get lost in the demands of lesson planning, grading, and maintaining a balanced classroom. Over time, the creativity that once fueled our passion for teaching can feel distant, as if it has been buried beneath the mountain of daily responsibilities. But what if I told you that embracing your own creative side could not only reignite your love for teaching but also set a powerful example for your students?
Having a theology background, I’ve always believed that creativity isn’t just about making art—it’s a deeply spiritual act. It’s about creation, reflection, and transformation. As teachers, our creative processes are part of who we are, and when we nurture them, we model for our students the beauty of lifelong learning and the power of imagination. But how can we reignite that flame when it feels dimmed by the weight of our to-do lists? Here are four suggestions for reconnecting with your creative side that go beyond the typical advice and are designed for overworked teachers who want to rekindle their love for creativity without adding stress to their plate.
1. Start with "Messy" Creative Time—No Pressure, Just Exploration
Sometimes, the best way to tap into your creativity is by removing the pressure of creating something perfect. As teachers, we often feel the weight of producing "results"—whether it’s for student achievement or classroom outcomes. But creativity doesn’t thrive under pressure. Set aside time—just 10 minutes during lunch or after school—to engage in a "messy" creative activity, whether it’s doodling, free-writing, or experimenting with watercolor painting. The key here is to focus solely on the process, not the product.
Why it works: Reclaiming your creativity begins with freedom. By allowing yourself to create for the sheer joy of it (and not for an outcome), you give yourself permission to be imperfect. This practice mirrors the way we encourage our students to explore without judgment. It also gives you an opportunity to "let go" and tap into the playful, experimental side of your creative spirit.
2. Reframe Classroom "Art" as a Spiritual Practice
I know the idea of adding "one more thing" to your already full schedule is daunting, but hear me out: infusing your creative practices with a sense of spiritual or reflective meaning can transform how you approach art in the classroom—and in your personal life. As someone with a theology background, I see creative expression as a form of prayer or meditation. Think of how the ancient artists, monks, or creators infused their work with meaning that went beyond aesthetics. Take a few moments before you start your own creative process to reflect on the intention behind it. Ask yourself questions like: What am I trying to express? What emotion or idea do I want to explore through this art?
Why it works: Art becomes more than just an activity; it becomes a connection to something deeper. This doesn’t have to mean a long, drawn-out process. Even five minutes of thoughtful reflection before engaging in any creative activity can help bring a sense of spiritual grounding. When you frame your creative practice as a way to connect to something bigger, it becomes more meaningful and easier to approach, even with a busy schedule.
3. Integrate "Creative Breaks" into Your Daily Routine
Many teachers I know struggle to carve out time for their own creative expression, so why not blend it into something that’s already part of your day? Consider incorporating "creative breaks" throughout the day—brief moments of free expression or reflection that don’t require you to stop everything but instead enhance your usual routine. You might draw on your notes from a lesson, use your class period’s "downtime" to write a brief journal entry, or work on a small creative project while students are engaged in independent work.
Why it works: Small, intentional bursts of creativity can add up to a big difference without requiring major time investments. The key is to schedule these moments in a way that doesn’t disrupt your workflow but enhances your sense of creativity. For example, you might bring your sketchbook or journal to your desk and spend 5 minutes jotting down thoughts or doodling during moments when your students are working independently or when you’re grading papers. These short moments of creativity can be surprisingly rejuvenating and offer an opportunity to reconnect with yourself during the busyness of your day.
4. Use Your Own Creative Process as a Teaching Tool
What if you could use your creative struggles and successes as an example for your students? One of the most powerful things you can do is to share the creative process with your class—not just the final products. Be open with your students about the ways you, too, are working through your creative challenges. Whether you’re working on a project for your own enrichment or simply struggling to find time for creativity, your vulnerability can serve as a powerful lesson in resilience and growth. Show them that creativity is not always easy, but it’s worth pursuing—even if the process is messy.
Why it works: When you show your students that you’re actively engaging in creative processes, you model vulnerability, persistence, and growth. Students will begin to understand that creativity isn’t just about talent or "getting it right" but about exploration, learning, and embracing failure as part of the journey. Plus, when they see that you value your own creative time, they’ll feel more inspired to value theirs as well.
Conclusion:
As educators, we often feel like we’re giving everything to our students—our time, energy, and even our creativity. But it’s essential to remember that nurturing our own creative sides doesn’t take away from our teaching; it enhances it. By embracing creativity in small, accessible ways—whether through "messy" exploration, integrating it as a spiritual practice, taking creative breaks, or using our own creative journeys as teaching tools—we can rekindle our passion for the arts and inspire our students along the way. In the end, teaching isn’t just about sharing knowledge; it’s about modeling the joy and process of learning itself. So, let’s honor our creative selves and give our students permission to do the same.
