Creativity can bring us closer to our goals, show us our own true potential, and give us the means to be successful on our own. 

And of course, if you get good enough, it can help you pull some inconvenient and elaborate gags on your friends…but that’s a story for another day.

We dove into the interwebs in search of some inspiration to expand our creativity; and what we found was pretty freakin’ awesome. 

Creativity Improves Your Mental and Physical Health 

According to a 2016 study out of New Zealand, engaging in creative activities contributes to an “upward spiral” of positive emotions, psychological well-being, and physical health. 

Creativity can also reduce anxiety, lower, stress, and promote curiosity. 

Curiosity is something that can also help fuel your creativity. If you want to learn more about that read this!

Creativity Predicts a Longer Life 

One popular study links creativity to a longer life, ranking it more important than other major personality traits.

The researchers found that only creativity — not intelligence or overall openness — decreased mortality risk.

“One possible reason creativity is protective of health is that it draws on a variety of neural networks within the brain,” says study author Nicholas Turiano.

“Individuals high in creativity maintain the integrity of their neural networks even into old age,” he adds.

• Do you know someone whos pursuing a more creative lifestyle? Share this article with them!

If you don’t consider yourself a ‘creative person,’ don’t worry! We found that you don’t need to have any talent whatsoever to benefit from creative activities. 

Anything from doodling, to trying a new recipe, to mixing up a new drink can give you a healthy creative boost. 

Or, you could take our creative writing challenge 🙂