How to notice when consumption replaces self-expression and what to do about it.
The other day, I was sitting in a neighborhood coffee shop when I overheard a woman say she has a theory: when our brains are full, we watch; when we need inspiration, we read. That idea stuck with me.
It made me wonder, how often do we consume to avoid creating? How often do we scroll instead of pouring that same energy into something of our own?
I’ve noticed that when I ignore my urge to create, I start to feel restless and irritable. I reach for my phone, hoping to ease that tension, but it only makes me feel guiltier for not listening to myself. And maybe you’ve felt that too, that nudge reminding you there’s something you want to make or express.
Sometimes starting feels hard. The pressure to be great can paralyze us before we even begin. But I’ve learned that not trying at all feels worse. Once I start, the momentum flows.
If you’ve been feeling that same creative tension lately, let this be your reminder to pause mindless scrolling and start making. Begin, and let the current take you where you’re meant to go.
