Rediscovering Joy: The Journey Back from a Creative Slump
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Chapter 1: The Need for a Break
Sometimes, we all need a chance to reset, though it can be a tough process.
Photo by Alex Guillaume on Unsplash
I've been largely MIA for a considerable time, not just from this platform but from nearly every aspect of my life. It's frustrating because there are moments when I feel compelled to write or engage in my advocacy for autism, yet I find myself lacking the motivation to do so.
I recognize that attempting to organize my thoughts or brainstorm ideas often leads to unsatisfactory results. In my mind, if I know the output will be subpar, it seems more reasonable to refrain from writing altogether. It’s a rather foolish mindset, isn't it?
Historically, writing has been a source of comfort that has lifted me from various lows, yet I consistently dismiss it. I have a carefully curated playlist filled with uplifting music that could elevate my mood, but I neglect to listen to it.
Why do I ignore these helpful resources? The answer lies in my stubbornness and a touch of foolishness. I tend to dwell on past failures instead of recognizing the times when these strategies were beneficial.
It feels as if I’m intentionally choosing to remain in a non-creative, unproductive rut. However, I yearn to return to a state of happiness or, at the very least, to a contented place where I don't feel like a complete failure for my inactivity.
I often find myself as my own worst critic. This experience is not unique to me; many individuals encounter similar feelings, even if they hesitate to admit it.
For several months, I’ve found myself stagnant. I attempt to engage in activities, but I often come up with trivial excuses to avoid them, retreating to my couch, remote in hand, waiting for something entertaining to catch my interest.
This stagnant phase has robbed me of the simple pleasures I once enjoyed. I have a passion for reading and a deep love for comic books, yet I struggle to focus long enough to read for more than a few minutes. It’s akin to having ADHD intensified, without any calming medication to ease the chaos.
After numerous failed attempts to escape this funk, I decided to try something completely different—something I should have embraced long ago.
Section 1.1: A New Approach
What was this miraculous solution that reignited my passion and creativity? Brace yourself; it’s surprisingly simple. I ventured out to have some fun.
Typically, I confine myself to my home, only stepping out for essential errands like grocery shopping or medical appointments I deem necessary. My social circle is quite small, with only a handful of friends, and the few that I do interact with are often tied up with their own commitments. In the five years I’ve resided in Southwest Missouri, I can count the number of times I’ve been invited to social gatherings on one hand—no, actually, on zero hands.
I try not to dwell on this lack of invitations, yet it does serve as a reminder of my standing in their lives.
A few weeks ago, I made the decision to break free from my routine and travel four hours across the state to St. Louis for a concert featuring one of my favorite bands, The Black Keys.
Given my limited outings, it had been years since I attended an event of this nature. I discovered that I couldn’t purchase accessible tickets online, so I called the box office to arrange for myself and my service dog, Tye, to attend the concert.
The experience was exhilarating. I secured a good seat with ample space for Tye to relax, and I returned home the following morning feeling happier than I had in ages.
Section 1.2: Embracing Passions
Soccer, or football as many call it, is another passion of mine. Having grown up in Los Angeles and spent most of my life in that area, when I learned that the Los Angeles Football Club was playing in Kansas City, I quickly arranged for accessible tickets and made the three-hour trek.
Once again, it was a fantastic experience. Whenever I visit Kansas City, I make it a point to stop at a barbecue restaurant called Oklahoma Joe’s. I also indulge in a breakfast sandwich from Rise, complete with sausage and a blueberry biscuit—one for the road, of course, just in case.
During the recent game, I decided to extend my enjoyment and purchased tickets for Sporting Kansas City (men’s MLS) the following Saturday, and the KC Current (women’s NWSL) on Sunday.
With careful planning, I’ve managed to incorporate these activities into my life, helping to restore my positivity.
Chapter 2: Moving Forward
As I begin to emerge from this funk, it’s crucial to address the negativity I accumulated during my time of stagnation.
Having not written for three months means I've lost the momentum I previously built while writing regularly. Additionally, the therapeutic effect I gained from expressing my thoughts on screen disappeared, and I need to reclaim that outlet.
I also stopped seeking out speaking engagements and paused my podcasting—activities I genuinely enjoy that allow me to help others, even if they push me beyond my comfort zone.
It’s time to resume these pursuits and possibly explore even more opportunities. I'm weary of remaining in a state of complacency, claiming indifference, yet I’m grateful for the actions I’ve taken to address my situation.
What lies ahead remains uncertain, but as I look down the road, I envision nothing but clear skies and sunny days. (Was that last bit about rainbows a bit over the top?)
The key takeaway is that if I—someone who tends to be stubborn and believes I can endure challenges—can get back on track, so can you. I have no doubt about that.
So, I invite you to share your stories with me. What struggles have you faced? What victories have you achieved? How do you cope when it feels like there’s no way out of a funk? Don’t hesitate to start this important conversation.
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In this video titled "A Slow Day Back in the City After a Long Break in An African Village," we explore the contrasts of returning to urban life after an extended stay in a tranquil setting.
The second video, "3 Days Off-Grid | Taking A Break From It All," captures the essence of disconnecting from the daily grind to recharge and find balance.