We each tread our unique creative paths, and there's no comparing one artist's journey to another's. What unites us, however, is the constant need for inspiration. Without it, our creativity can wither away.

Nurturing your creative mind should include discovering your personal wellsprings of inspiration that can be transformed into creative fuel.

Take time to genuinely absorb your sources of inspiration. Reflect on the emotions they evoke and the moods they create within you. What feelings and sensations do they trigger?

There are seven ways to experience something: visually, auditory, emotionally, through movement, energetically, imaginatively, and through sensation. For instance, my sister leans towards the auditory, while I'm more inclined towards the visual. But, it goes beyond that; I struggle to articulate my emotions but can sense shifts in my body's energy. There's a tingling excitement or a flow of energy. When I notice these sensations, I understand it's time to pay attention.

In the world around me, I seek inspiration everywhere: in nature's beauty, architectural wonders, vibrant colors, soul-stirring music, and the work of fellow artists. I am constantly driven by wanderlust. The sources seem endless, but I always pay heed to that internal energy shift.

Sometimes, it's a challenge to pause and notice the details, to explore unusual perspectives, to challenge myself to be attentive. Yet, the rewards are profound.

Often, when I step into my studio to embark on a creative journey, I'm in the dark. In the past, I hesitated, lacking confidence in my vision. I mistakenly believed I had to visualize the finished piece before even starting.

Then it dawned on me:

• Action is the key, it's where magic, power, and grace reside.

• Celebrating small achievements matters.

• Exploration is an integral part of the creative process.

• Consistency breeds momentum.

Now, I enter my studio with a hunger for spontaneity.

I might have a starting point, often in the form of a question like, "what if?" I crave a process that transcends my existing knowledge, a process that taps into my imagination and stirs that bodily energy shift. That's when I know I'm on the right track.

Before I begin, I engage in a simple ritual. It's not formal; I just close my eyes and set an intention for my studio time that day.

Of course, there are still days when the creative energy eludes me. On those days, I tinker with random tasks, paint the edges of my boards, experiment with new techniques on sample boards, or seek out images that might ignite that elusive emotion.

In caring for your creative mind, it's crucial to understand how inspiration manifests for you. Pay attention to what sparks your creativity and make it a regular practice to explore further.