Find Your Creative FLOW!

From left to right: An image of my own coloring journey. Second image is a group of women coloring during a Skate Party fundraiser for the Boys & Girls Club.

While working with one of my SBDC business mentors from Harper College during the launch of Connect and Color®, the tagline “Coloring isn't just for kids” came up repeatedly. For some, coloring may bring back childhood memories. What memories does it evoke for you? Was it a time for quiet and togetherness with family/friends? Did it give you a sense of pride/accomplishment when you finished coloring? Was it displayed on your fridge or even framed for all to see? Perhaps the memories aren’t so positive. Would people be frustrated with you if you colored outside the lines? Would you be frustrated with yourself if you didn’t color perfectly? Coloring evokes different memories depending on your personal journey.

My creative memories as a child were influenced greatly by my mom. We spent time together making crafts, including making salt dough characters and painting them after they were baked. She never judged me, but ONLY encouraged me. So much so, that I was given my own ‘art studio” in the tiny basement apartment we lived in. Looking back, it is incredible how my parents/family nurtured my creativity, so coloring has always evoked positive memories.

With my recent dedication to daily coloring, I realized what a restorative practice it has become. There are times when I don’t love a page I created, but the journey is peaceful. Calm. Reflective. And that is what matters most. Coloring truly isn’t just for kids. It’s for anyone who needs a reboot. A new routine aside from doom scrolling. The more I color, the less I want to be online. Online doesn’t bring me joy like coloring does. I don’t mean the momentary ‘happy’ feeling you get when someone likes a post. I mean a lasting peace, and that is priceless.

A friend recently asked me if I ever get stuck creatively. I know I discussed it recently,  but it is worth mentioning again. Coloring is an outstanding practice to help you relieve those creative blocks. Why? Because almost everyone has colored at some point in their lives. Even if it doesn’t evoke fond memories, there are still numerous benefits. It’s an easy cleanup. Minimal supplies. Cost-efficient. Most importantly, you can get into the FLOW without having to learn a new creative technique/skill. And who doesn’t want to be in a FLOW, free from devices?

Adults are returning to hands-on activities to relieve stress and improve mindfulness. Whether it be crocheting, woodworking, coloring, or solving a puzzle, the benefits are endless, especially when done in a community. It’s the small things in life that matter the most. The creativity of an individual (not AI-assisted) and being together in-person. Whether you are looking to find your own Creative FLOW or want to inspire your community, Connect and Color® provides inspiration and tools that will leave you feeling more relaxed and perhaps even better connected to others with a surprise Masterpiece to share!