How Creativity Reduces Stress and Anxiety: A Business Owner’s Journey to Mental Wellness
Are workplace stress and anxiety holding you back? Let’s talk about something that might surprise you: creativity. It’s not just for artists or dreamers—it’s a lifeline for your mental health and your business. As someone who transitioned from the corporate grind to running my own business, I’ve experienced how embracing creativity can change everything. It’s not just about feeling better; it’s about thinking differently, solving problems, and building a business that reflects your true self.
The Science Behind Creativity and Stress Relief
Here’s something cool: science backs up what many of us intuitively know. According to a Drexel University study, 75% of participants saw lower cortisol levels (aka the stress hormone) after engaging in creative activities. The Journal of Positive Psychology takes it further, showing that creativity isn’t just relaxing—it’s life changing. It helps shift your mindset and create space for growth.
How Creativity Disrupts Anxiety
You’ve probably heard the phrase, “Get out of your own head.” Creativity does exactly that.
- Dr. Martha Beck explains that creativity interrupts anxiety-driven thought patterns, giving your mind something fresh to explore.
- Dr. Cathy Malchiodi, an expert in art therapy, emphasizes that creative expression helps us process complex emotions—sometimes without needing words.
Think of creativity as a mental reset button.
Is It Procrastination or Creative Reflection?
Let’s clear this up: what people often call procrastination might actually be an essential part of the creative process. Rory Sutherland from Ogilvy UK calls it “waiting to be lucky.” But here’s my take: it’s more than waiting. It’s reflecting, brainstorming, and preparing for that aha moment.
This so-called “delay” is where the magic happens:
- You’re letting ideas simmer.
- You’re giving yourself time to connect the dots.
- You’re building something worth sharing.
Using Creativity to Overcome Business Challenges
Running a business is tough, no question. But creativity has a way of turning obstacles into opportunities. Here’s how you can use it:
- Stress Management
- Design a logo or refresh your branding—it’s therapeutic and productive.
- Create a vision board to visualize your goals.
- Creative Problem-Solving
- Look at challenges through a new lens. What’s an innovative way to solve this?
- Use strategic exercises like mind-mapping to find unexpected solutions.
What Successful Business Leaders Know About Creativity
If you think creativity doesn’t belong in the boardroom, think again. Here’s how some top executives keep their minds sharp:
- Dan Streetman (Tanium CEO): Relieves stress with triathlon training.
- Brian Chesky (Airbnb CEO): Uses design thinking to shape business strategy.
- Christine Yen (Honeycomb CEO): Channels creativity into motorcycle racing.
These leaders understand that creativity fuels both wellness and innovation.
Your First Steps Toward Creativity
Starting doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. Try this:
- Spend just 15 minutes a day doing something creative. Writing? Drawing? Doodling? It all counts.
- Experiment—there’s no wrong way to be creative.
- Track your progress. Document what works, what inspires you, and what sparks joy.
- Connect with other creatives. Collaboration often leads to breakthroughs.
- Bring creativity into your business. Could your next marketing idea come from an unexpected source?
Creativity as a Superpower
Here’s what I’ve learned: creativity isn’t a luxury—it’s a lifeline. It’s how you turn stress into momentum, problems into opportunities, and ideas into action. Whether you’re crafting a business strategy or simply finding a way to decompress after a long day, creativity is the key to thriving, not just surviving.
What’s one creative activity you can try today? Even a small step could make a huge difference. Remember, creativity doesn’t just fuel your business—it fuels you.