If you're reading this, you've made it to 2009...

If you'd asked me what the difference between this year and last was - I'd have to say it was the absence of political primary banter on television. You see, last year my resolution should have been to watch Michael Phelps and the presidential primaries because that is what I was doing instead of being more creative (which was my real resolution) and though obviously very interesting, I did not find much creative inspiration on CNN. The Olympics were inspiring - but unfortunately not for my creativity.

Now with all the global economy changes I've decided turn off the bad news and get out more. Outside in my garden, out of Raleigh, and out of the country. For me this is a huge change from being glued to the television for hours.

I'll be posting more mobile blogs and tweets and hopefully a picture or note in the photo journal may somehow help you find your own muse and inspire you to get out and see more.

I'd love to see places you recommend, so if you have any ideas 0r would like to meet us out on the road - please send me your ideas.

Cheers!

Lise

Style Points: Your Creative Resolutions

At the end of each year, we take stock of what we’ve accomplished and the goals we want to set for the coming year. And because of what I like to do, it is inevitable that each year many of my friends and clients talk to me about their resolutions to be more creative. Together we discuss art and home projects, garden designs, new paint colors and elaborate party plans. Yet by mid February, many have fallen back to their old routines and are left wondering where their creative intentions have gone. None of the projects that seemed so inspiring at one time are in process, and worse it seems that they are all but forgotten.

In contrast, each year my creative projects have grown in magnitude and importance in my life. I have written, created and taught new workshops, expanded my creative business, blogged, explored new art materials and finished more new projects than ever before. Projects I once never thought I could tackle. And next year I’m lending even greater importance to my creative projects.

So this year, when my friends ask how to make their resolutions stick, I’ll talk to them about becoming their own creativity coach. With clear intention, you really can manifest creativity in your life in tremendous ways. Here are four simple steps to make it happen:

1. Explore your ideas. I like to do a mind-map for all my creative projects. Take a huge piece of paper out and assorted colored pencils or markers. Write down each creative project you want to do. Don’t edit yourself before you start. Just write until you can’t write any longer. Once you’ve finished, sort the list by what excites you the most.
   
2. Schedule the projects and add reminders. In a special calendar, assign a date for each project. These first two steps (exploring and scheduling) are very important. We all know that words have power to change our circumstances. Writing your creative goals in a place that you refer to often will keep you motivated to achieve them. Don’t stop at assigning a date for the project; determine when you will buy materials, prep your work areas, or explore an art opening for new inspiration. Doodle all reminders on your calendar in bright colors so that you won’t miss them.
   
3. Take action. Follow through on what you’ve scheduled. If you really can’t meet your objectives, then reschedule. Don’t just delete it or ignore your projects. Ignoring your projects leads to a negative pattern. And by all means, celebrate your victories. It is important to congratulate yourself when you’ve taken action.
   
4. Chronicle your achievements. Once you’ve finished your project, take pictures, blog, journal or otherwise document your success. This journal will inspire you as you dream up new creative resolutions in years to come.