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Forming habits can feel elusive. Training yourself to do something, consistently, is a challenge—especially when it comes to creativity. Allowing yourself half an hour to draw, paint, embroider (whatever you want to do) can seem totally indulgent. But it’s important to remember that being creative—taking time out for yourself—is not indulgent. It’s a valuable way to recharge and reconnect. I’ve also found if you make something a habit, it becomes a purposeful part of your day that you’ll be happy that made the time for.
So, how do you make a creative exercise a habit? One way is by habit stacking. This technique has you tie the new habit into an already existing routine By doing this, you’re not disrupting your day. Rather, you’re baking the new habit into something you’re already doing.
How do you habit stack?
I use habit stacking to ensure that I complete my each day. I do this in a couple of ways. Every morning, I wake up and have a cup of coffee. Between getting my cup of coffee and turning on my computer, there used to be unstructured time. (Anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour.) Sometimes I would stitch, other times I would open my laptop. Once 2021 began, this time turned into 1 Year of Stitches, so it took little effort to add it into my routine. I also have a nighttime habit for the project, too. Before I get ready for bed (wash my face, brush my teeth), I take a photo of my project. It helps signal to my brain that it’s time to think about sleep.
To try habit stacking for yourself, look at your daily routine. Is there a place where you can integrate your creative practice? Remember, you want it to fit in with something you’re already doing. Think about settling into the couch to watch TV at night. Can you fit in 30 minutes to draw in your sketchbook? Knit a few rows? I’m rooting for you!
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