Enthusiasm With a Side of Strategy
A 5-minute read. Prefer to listen? Click below for the audio version.
Creativity Needs a Game Plan
One thing I’ve learned in my creative journey is that enthusiasm, while powerful, isn’t always enough to get me to the finish line. Let’s be honest—how many of us have started a project with that spark of excitement, only to hit a roadblock because we didn’t have a clear plan? (Guilty as charged!)
The truth is, creativity thrives with a little structure. And here’s the kicker: planning doesn’t stifle your creativity—it fuels it. When you pair enthusiasm with a solid game plan, that’s when the magic really happens.
Today, I want to share how I’ve turned inspiration into action in my own work and how you can do the same. Whether you’re tackling a new project, launching a creative venture, or simply trying to organize your ideas, I hope these insights will help you move from dreaming to doing—and even enjoy the process!
Why Planning is Part of the Creative Process
When we think about creativity, planning isn’t first on the list. But let me tell you—planning is just as much a part of the creative process as sketching, sewing, or brainstorming. Why? Because even the most brilliant ideas need a structure to bring them to life.
Planning turns “someday” into “right now.” It gives your ideas direction, helps you prioritize what matters most, and ensures that your enthusiasm doesn’t fizzle out halfway through. Think of it like this: your creativity is the fuel, but your plan is the map.
Here’s a peek into how I’ve been using planning to shape some of my latest projects—and how it’s made all the difference. Feel free to swipe my methods!
The Black Friday Bundle: A Tale of Two Plans
Here’s a behind-the-scenes truth: The first iteration was, well…completely off base. I had no concrete plan. It wasn’t coming together, and honestly, I didn’t like it.
But…the second idea gelled. I shifted my focus and thought about what would actually help my audience the most. A time management course, resources for textile creatives, and a way to help people kick off 2025 with intention.
So, I got to work:
- I defined my goal: To offer easy to use tools that simplify and inspire.
- I broke it down into actionable steps: What’s in the bundle? How will it be used? What’s the timeline? When and how will I share it?
- I gave myself space to refine the details: Because creative plans can-and often DO-change.
The result? A bundle I’m proud to share, designed with purpose and a whole lot of yum!
The Creative Cloth eMagazine: Why a Plan Made All the Difference
When I initially launched my Patreon membership, I was excited about the idea but quickly realized NOPE. The contents lacked the structure and vision to thrive, and let’s just say…lesson learned!
After some reflection (and a better plan), The Creative Cloth eMagazine was born. With two clear tiers, intentional content, and a roadmap for future issues, this format feels right. The shift has been incredible—not just for my audience but for me, too. Having a plan allowed me to channel my creativity into something fulfilling – and sustainable!
How Planning Helps My Creative Work
Planning isn’t just for big projects. It’s also what keeps my daily creative practice on track.
Here’s how I use it to balance my artwork and online business:
- Jotting Down Ideas: When inspiration strikes, I capture it in my planner or idea journal.
- Categorizing by Focus Areas: I split my plans between personal artwork and my online business to keep things clear.
- Setting Mini-Goals: Each week, I choose achievable goals to maintain momentum without feeling overwhelmed.
It’s not about perfection, it’s about progress. Planning helps me stay focused, even when my to-do list is as big as my fabric stash.
Looking Ahead: 2025 Workshop Series
I’m excited about my plans for a 2025 workshop series, which follow the chapters in my SEW Successful framework. Each workshop will help fellow fabric and textile creatives plan and execute their 2025 goals with intention.
This series will help you:
- Find clarity in your creative vision.
- Build plans that inspire action.
- Stay on track with strategies tailored for fabric-focused creatives.
It’s a roadmap for turning dreams into reality, one step at a time.
I’ll share my missteps and mistakes, so you don’t fall down the same rabbit holes!
Wanna Take Action Now?
If you’re ready to start planning your 2025 creative journey, here are some simple tips to help you now:
- Capture Your Ideas: Write down every idea, big or small. Don’t edit; don’t censor; just capture.
- Prioritize Your Focus: Choose one or two ideas that excite you most and align with your goals.
- Break It Down: Outline a few small, clear steps to bring your idea to life.
- Create a Timeline: Set deadlines for each step but keep them (a little) flexible.
- Celebrate Your Progress: Every step forward is worth celebrating.
- Change Course if Necessary: Don’t be shy about taking a U-Turn. If the path doesn’t feel right, change it.
Remember, Your Enthusiasm Needs a Plan
Planning is about making space for what truly matters. It’s not about stifling your creativity; it’s about giving it room to thrive.
So, here’s my question for you: What’s one creative idea you’ve been sitting on? And what’s the first step you’ll take to bring it to life?
Drop a comment below, or email me – dare ya…
I’d love to hear about your plans and cheer you on. 2025 is only a few weeks away. Start planning now, cuz we’ll start some serious doing in January!
Who’s with me?