5 “Hacks” to Uncork Your Creative Power After 50

That aren't really hacks at all

Photo by Oleksandr Chumak on Unsplash

The word "hack" gets thrown around a lot these days.

It implies some sort of shortcut, a quick fix, a magic bullet.

But when it comes to creativity, especially after 50, there are no shortcuts. The real magic lies in embracing the adventure in cultivating a mindset that allows your creative spirit to flourish.

So, here are 5 "hacks" for uncorking your creative power after 50—but don't think of them as tricks or shortcuts. Think of them as guideposts, reminders of the essential truths that will help you unlock your full creative potential:

1. Embrace Your Inner Time Traveler (But Don't Get Stuck in the Past)

Your past is a treasure trove of experiences, both good and bad. It's the source of your wisdom, your resilience, and your unique perspective. But it's not a place to live. Don't get so caught up in reminiscing about the "good old days" that you miss out on the opportunities of the present.

Instead, use your past as a springboard for future creativity. Reflect on your experiences, learn from your mistakes, and draw inspiration from your triumphs. But always keep moving forward; always keep exploring new horizons.

2. Become a Collector of "First Times"

Remember the thrill of riding a bike for the first time? Or the excitement of your first school dance? As we get older, we tend to shy away from new experiences. We get comfortable in our routines, and the unknown becomes a bit scarier. But that's where the magic happens.

Make a conscious effort to seek out new experiences, to step outside your comfort zone. Learn a new language, take up a new hobby, travel to a place you've never been before. Each "first time" is an opportunity to learn, to grow, to spark your creativity.

3. Find Your Creative Crew

Creativity thrives in community. Surround yourself with people who inspire you, who challenge you, who support your creative endeavors. Join a writing group, take an art class, attend a local concert. Share your ideas, learn from others, and let the collective energy fuel your own creative fire.

4. Give Yourself Permission to Suck

This is a big one. We often hold ourselves back from creative pursuits because we're afraid of failing, of not being good enough. But here's the thing: everyone sucks at first. Even the greatest artists, writers, and musicians had to start somewhere.

So, give yourself permission to suck. Don't worry about perfection; just focus on the process. Embrace the messy, imperfect, and often frustrating journey of creativity. That's where the real growth happens.

5. Make Time for Play

When was the last time you did something just for the fun of it? As adults, we tend to get so caught up in our responsibilities that we forget the importance of play. But play is essential for creativity. It allows us to relax, to let go of inhibitions, to tap into our inner child.

So, make time for play. Whether it's dancing in your living room, building a sandcastle, or simply doodling in a notebook, find activities that bring you joy and allow your imagination to run wild.

The Bottom Line:

Turns out, the only real creativity hacks aren't really hacks at all. They're about cultivating a mindset of curiosity, openness, and fearlessness. They're about embracing your experiences, seeking out new challenges, and allowing yourself to play. So, go forth and create! Your masterpiece is waiting to be born.

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To learn more about “the how” of getting into flow state, read the following: