How to be creative even if you think you're not

We hear it all the time: “I’m not creative.” “I can’t draw a stick figure.” “You don’t want me near a glue gun.”

And every single time, we smile — because what you really mean is: “I’m scared I’ll mess it up.”

And honestly? That’s valid.

Trying something new (especially something that feels personal or artistic) is intimidating. It pokes at our perfectionism and whispers, what if it’s not good enough?

Here’s the truth no one talks about enough: Creativity isn’t a talent — it’s a muscle. And just like any muscle, it can be weak from disuse… but it’s still there.

🎨 Let’s redefine what creativity even is

Creativity isn’t painting a masterpiece. It’s:

• Rearranging your living room and feeling something click.

• Trying a new recipe and adding your own twist.

• Doodling during a meeting and realizing… that flower’s actually kind of cute.

At its core, creativity is problem-solving + play — it’s your brain doing something just because it wants to, not because it has to. And in our productivity-obsessed world, that kind of freedom feels rare.

🌱 But what if I’m really bad at art?

Okay. Let’s say you are. What’s the worst that could happen?

You mix the wrong colors. You get glitter on your jeans. Your turtle mosaic looks like a confused pancake. And?

You still showed up. You still made something that didn’t exist before. You still exercised a part of your brain and heart that needed a break.

Being a “beginner” doesn’t mean you’re bad....It means you’re brave.

🧠 Creativity builds confidence — even outside the studio

Once you start crafting, painting, building, sculpting, whatever-ing — something subtle happens:You start taking more chances. You speak up more. You loosen your grip on needing things to be perfect.

Why?

Because creativity teaches you that messy is okay. That your ideas have value. That mistakes aren’t just fine — they’re usually where the magic is hiding.

It’s not just about making art. It’s about reclaiming your confidence — one paintbrush, glue stick, or yarn knot at a time.

At HG Workshops, we see this shift all the time. A person walks in nervously, unsure if they even belong here. By the end? They’re laughing. They’re proud. They’re already planning what they’ll make next time.

So whether you’re from Northfield, Ocean City, or just passing through South Jersey — you’re invited.

Not just to craft. But to reconnect with a part of yourself that maybe got tucked away for too long.

Spoiler: it’s still in there. And it’s more creative than you think.