As summer winds down and back-to-school rhythms begin, I find myself reflecting on creativity, resilience, and the spaces that can inspire us most.

My own creative expression was recently inspired during our family’s annual road trip to the Eastern Sierras of California, a place that holds special meaning for my family and my daughter’s namesake. This year, something magical happened.

A First Attempt at Astrophotography

It was the Perseid meteor shower.  I didn’t know we’d be in the mountains for this event so I hadn’t brought my tripod. But when I learned about it, I knew I had to at least try to capture the meteor magic with my camera.  So I balanced my camera on a tree stump, and held my breath while pressing the shutter release.  If you know anything about long exposure photography, having a tripod and remote shutter release are pretty essential so I was really winging it under suboptimal technical conditions…

The results were blurry, imperfect, and absolutely magical.

That night lit a creative fire in my soul, a reminder of how exhilarating it feels to try something new and simply express creatively, even when conditions aren’t ideal. It reminded me that creativity doesn’t have to be perfect; it just has to be alive.

Creative Expression Is for Everyone

“Creativity is not a rare ability. It is not difficult to access. Creativity is a fundamental aspect of being human. It’s our birthright. And it’s for all of us.” – Rick Rubin, The Creative Act

I couldn’t agree more.

For a long time, I didn’t believe I was creative. Growing up, I was labeled as “the athletic one” in my family. My older brother was “the artistic one,” and my younger sibling was “the funny one.” These rigid labels followed us throughout childhood.

Even though I loved taking pictures, I didn’t view myself as a creative person until college, when I took my first photography class. In the darkroom, I found a flow state that felt like coming home to myself. Looking back, I realize I had always been creative – inventing games, making collages, designing my room, building forts, and dreaming up imaginary worlds.

Creativity isn’t reserved for a select few. It’s alive in every single one of us.

The Wound of “Not Being Creative”

In fourth grade, I was invited to apply for one of those silly 80s + 90s era “gifted and talented” programs focused on creativity. When I wasn’t accepted, I internalized the harmful message that I wasn’t creative enough. That belief stuck with me for years.

Now, in my 40s, I know the truth: creativity is not a special gift reserved for a chosen few. Creativity is a core aspect of being human. It was alive in child Ash, it is alive in me now, and it is alive in you. WE ARE ALL CREATIVE.  

The only question is whether we’re listening to that spark and giving it a chance to express itself.

The Benefits of Creativity

Research continues to affirm what many of us know in our bones: creativity improves our well-being. It helps reduce stress, increases joy, sharpens focus, and deepens self-awareness.

Creativity can look like so many things:

• Photography, painting, or writing
• Cooking and gardening
• Music and dance
• Teaching, entrepreneurship, or problem-solving
• Parenting, design, or inventing something new

Every time we create, we tap into a deeper part of ourselves that longs to be expressed.

Awakening Creativity in Costa Rica

This is why I created The Artist’s Retreat: Nature & Nurture in Costa Rica.

Next spring, I’ll be gathering with a small group in one of the most inspiring places I’ve ever been, the lush rainforest along the Costa Ballena of Costa Rica. Together, we’ll awaken and deepen our connection to creativity while being held by the magic of nature and supportive community.

If you’re craving an adventure that nourishes your soul and reconnects you with your creative spark, I’d love to invite you to join me. Get the details about The Artist’s Retreat here.

Everyone has the capacity to create. Creativity isn’t just for artists. It’s for anyone who has ever solved a problem, dreamed up an idea, or built something with their hands and heart.

So, I’ll leave you with this:

Do you consider yourself creative?
What’s story do you carry around your own creativity?

I’d love to hear your reflections in the comments.