When was the last time you did something just for the fun of it?
Not in an effort to be productive, but rather to allow your inner child some creative play time.
As we age and responsibility builds, it becomes almost impossible to carve out time for a creative outlet, or what bestselling author Eve Rodsky has dubbed “Unicorn Space”. We’ll get to how to unapologetically claim time for Unicorn Space in a moment, but first let’s examine why women are detached from their creative outlets in the first place.
When I interviewed Rodsky she stated, “”The expectations on women, especially after they have children, are that we will be happy and fulfilled by staying within three boxes.
1. We’re allowed to be parents of children.
2. We’re allowed to be partners.
3. We’re allowed to make money because we have to help our household.
If you want to be an acrobat, if you want to be a baker, if you want to be a mountain climber, or if you want to pursue anything for yourself, society will shame you back into one of those three boxes.”
Since balancing careers, family, and social obligations can be overwhelming, it often leaves little room for personal growth and self-expression. However, it’s crucial for women to understand the significance of having a creative outlet in their lives because it not only enhances personal well-being, but also provides tangible benefits for career development.
A study by Arts and Minds, an arts and mental health charity, found when people are given a chance to create art they felt better.
– 71% felt a decrease in feelings of anxiety
– 73% felt a decrease in depression
– 76% of participants said their wellbeing increased
– 69% of participants felt more socially included
Creativity can take many forms, from painting and writing, to dancing and gardening. It’s not about being an expert or creating a masterpiece, rather, it’s about the process and the joy that it brings. Engaging in a creative activity provides a sense of accomplishment and a break from the routine, reducing stress levels and enhancing overall mental health.
So, if creating art and doing things that our inner child would equate to “playing” is so impactful, why aren’t more women prioritizing time for “Unicorn Space”? Rodsky explains, “Society tells us there’s just a different way women are expected to use our time”
Why we struggle to find time for Unicorn Space
In Find Your Unicorn Space, Rodsky cites 3 things that women she researched told her were hurdles to stepping outside those 3 boxes of parent, partner and/or professional.
#1 I don’t believe I have permission to be unavailable for my roles.
#2 Feeling guilt and shame, even if you believe you’re available
#3 I don’t believe I have permission to use my voice
Rodsky explains, “Society views men’s time as if it’s finite like diamonds, and it views and treats women’s time as if it’s infinite like sand. And when you have that type of discrepancy it leads to internalized guilt and shame for our own time choice.”
All over we’re seeing that women’s time is, is less valuable than men’s time.
And then we internalize it by saying to ourselves, “I can’t practice piano because my husband makes more money than me. So, I need to be the one to do pick up, so I don’t have that extra time. Or, in the time it takes me to tell him/ her/ they what to do, I should do it myself. I’m a better multitasker.”
A perfect example is why school nurses call mothers first instead of fathers. When asked why they do this, nurses responded that ‘kids want them to call mothers first, dads don’t pick up, and we don’t want to bother fathers.’ So, this idea that a man’s time is guarded, right? It is a diamond.”
Why you should fight to add Unicorn Space to your calendar
It acts as a sanctuary
In a world filled with deadlines, schedules, and expectations, creative outlets offer a sanctuary of self-expression and emotional release. For women, this is an essential tool to combat stress, anxiety, and the daily challenges that life throws their way. Creativity allows for an escape from the rigors of daily life, helping women to reconnect with themselves and nurture their mental and emotional well-being.
It boosts confidence
Whether it’s completing a challenging painting, finishing a novel, or mastering a new musical instrument, the satisfaction of creating something from scratch instills a sense of achievement and resilience. This increased self-esteem can have a positive impact on our careers, leading to more assertiveness and a willingness to take on new challenges.
It fosters innovation and problem-solving skills
Creative individuals are more likely to approach problems with fresh perspectives, find novel solutions, and adapt to changing circumstances. Whether it’s finding new ways to improve processes or developing unique marketing strategies, creativity can make a significant difference in a woman’s professional life.
It helps build a network of support
Many creative pursuits offer opportunities for women to connect with like-minded individuals. Whether it’s joining a writers’ group, an art class, or a dance workshop, these shared experiences can lead to the development of a supportive and empowering community. These communities foster a sense of belonging and provide valuable networking opportunities.
It acts as a source of inspiration
Creative outlets often serve as a wellspring of inspiration that can fuel personal and professional growth. The experiences, emotions, and ideas generated through creative activities can be channeled into other aspects of life. For women, this can be particularly beneficial for career development.
Writing a novel, for instance, might inspire you to take on new challenges at work or even explore a career in writing or publishing. Similarly, learning to play a musical instrument can help develop patience and discipline, which can be applied to various aspects of one’s career.
Unicorn Space instructs us to cultivate the three Cs of Creativity:
– Curiosity: Identify a curiosity and set a goal around pursuing it
– Connection: use your unicorn space to connect to a community and face your fears
– Completion: enlist your partner, complete the pursuit, and leave a legacy for those around you
“Creative Play”, or Unicorn Space, is not just a hobby- it’s an essential element of a woman’s life, supporting both your career and personal well-being. It’s vital for you to prioritize self-care and make room for creative activities.
So, let your creativity flow, and watch as it transforms your life in countless positive ways.
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