Creativity and Art Enhance Wellbeing and Happiness

Multiple studies have demonstrated correlations between creativity, art,

wellbeing and happiness.
 Mental health and wellbeing are enhanced with more creative pursuits. The
British Journal of Clinical Psychology published a study which
demonstrates when people are involved in arts-oriented activities, they see a
boost in positive emotions and a reduction in negative emotions—bringing
about greater overall happiness.
 In a related study by The University of Otago, those involved in creative
pursuits had more positive feelings in general. And interestingly, their
positive feelings drove additional creative activities. Creativity fed
positivity, which in turn, fed creativity, thus setting up a reinforcing
relationship.
 A study at Drexel University found when people did more art work—even
doodling or coloring—they experienced a boost to their brain’s pleasure
pathways. This additional blood flow to their brain’s reward centers made
them feel happier, and more confident about their art and increased their
desire to engage in additional creative pursuits. The effects of creating art
were significant for non-artists as well as artists.
 A factor linking both creativity and happiness is empathy and a focus on
others. When we focus on applying our talents to help others, we feel
happier. This is well-documented in various studies. But it is also true that
when empathy is enhanced, this can result in greater creativity and problem
solving, according to a University of Cambridge study.
 
Fostering Creativity and Happiness
So, creativity and happiness are closely related, and this has implications for both
work and life. Here’s how you can make it matter:
 
Find judgment free zones. We tend to tap into our best creative thinking when we
can turn down the volume on critics—both our inner critic and those around us.
You need the space to explore new ideas, make new connections and synthesize
information without judgement. After all, new ideas can be fragile. Another factor
which can get in the way of free thinking is a lack of time. Often, when we’re
trying to solve a problem at work or find the best solution to a life challenge, there
is urgency involved. The need to get things right in combination with feeling
rushed can squash budding ideas. Find ways to get away—either physically or
mentally—in order to give yourself more time and space. When you can distance
yourself from critics (inner or outer) and time pressures, it can do wonders for your
sense of freedom to think and reflect. Find a temporary cocoon, take a deep breath
and get away just a bit in order to engage your creative spirit.