Finding meaning through creativity and self-reflection

Many of us want to feel that our lives have meaning and that the things we spend our time and energy on are worthwhile. How can we do this? How do we rise from the ashes of despair or meaninglessness, or recover from serious setbacks and rejections?

We can do this - in part - by becoming aware of who we are, what gives us life (energy) and what takes away life (energy) from us. This energy can be given or taken from the work we do or the people in our lives. Difficult experiences can sometimes leave us questioning what matters to us. Creative expression may provide one way to explore those experiences and the feelings that come with them.

We can start to express our feelings and begin to free some of our energy and put things to good use. We can become seekers of truth, beauty and love, and we can start with ourselves.

Writing in a journal can provide space to put feelings into words and reflect on what we’re experiencing. Rejection is also a part of life. It can feel deeply personal, but over time we may be able to consider what it means for us and whether it points us towards a different direction. Indeed, sometimes it takes us on a new trajectory!

For some people, faith can also be an important source of meaning. We can also pay attention to the things we find ourselves imagining or wanting to explore during the day. Is there an art class that we would like to try? Do we have a poem floating in our minds? All these creative ideas can be observed and acted upon. Paying attention to this inner world may help us discover interests, ideas and possibilities that bring something meaningful to our daily lives.

Being creative with our ideas is worthwhile. Putting words on a page, paint on a canvas or expressing ourselves creatively can be one way of exploring and creating a sense of meaning.

‘Our’ meaning is subjective and personal to start with, and then it can grow into relevance and meaning for others as we share the fruit of our work and joy.