How I Tamed Creativity (By Letting Her Run Wild)

Hi there, lovely humans!

I’m Urmila-writer, artist, educator, accidental IT professional, certified yogi, and your friendly neighborhood creativity cheerleader.

My life might look like a delightful mash-up of random passions (teaching! tech! art! yoga!), but it all comes down to one thing: helping people connect with their authentic selves and live more meaningful lives.

On this Substack, I mix storytelling, mindfulness, and a dash of creative alchemy to explore emotional wellness, personal growth, and the joy of embracing imperfection.

This Substack is called Teacups and Tiny Victories because it’s like an intimate chat over tea with a close friend- you know, the kind where we celebrate *all* wins, big or small, whether they’re personal breakthroughs or little sparks of joy in the world.

Every Monday, I send you an article to make those dreaded Mondays just a little brighter- and maybe even a little magical.

If this sounds like your cup of tea (pun intended!), stick around. Oh, and if my musings spark even a tiny bit of inspiration, consider

It keeps the creative engines humming (and the caffeine flowing). Thanks for being here; your presence makes this journey infinitely sweeter ❤️✨

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Now!

Let me tell you about my complicated relationship with creativity. For years I have felt like she’s that moody mermaid from folklore-elusive, shimmering, and always just out of reach. One moment she lures you in with promises of brilliance; the next, she vanishes like smoke, leaving you stranded on a beach of self-doubt. But here’s the thing: I’ve figured out how to keep her around. And guess what? The secret is letting her go.

Yep, you heard that right. If you truly love something, you have to set it free. (No, I’m not being dramatic-it works!)

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The Problem: Too Many Plates Spinning

Here’s where my story begins. Earlier this year, I felt like my creativity was scattered across too many spectrums-writing, YouTube, art, teaching-you name it. It was all over the place, and nothing seemed to stick. So, in January 2025, I made a bold decision: no more commercial art or exhibitions. Instead, I decided to focus solely on writing and getting that book done.

But wait-it wasn’t all work and no play. I promised myself one rule: I would only indulge in creative play.

What’s “creative play,” you ask? Think of it as the ultimate sandbox for your imagination. No rules, no pressure, no expectations. Just pure exploration and experimentation. As an artist who has worked in multiple mediums and styles, I realized I’d been missing this playful side of creativity. Sometimes, knowing too much-or consuming too much content-can block the flow of creation. Paradoxically, doing less became the key to unlocking more.

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Enter Sketchnoting: My New Creative BFF

Just before my trip across Thailand, I stumbled upon sketchnoting. For those unfamiliar, it’s like doodling meets note-taking-a quick, easy way to capture ideas visually. As an urban sketcher, it felt familiar but lighter, faster, and way less fussy. Plus, with minimal supplies required (just a pen, few colors and notebook!), it was perfect for traveling.

Turns out, sketchnoting was exactly what I needed. Whether I was capturing the vibrant chaos of a night market in Chiang Rai or the serene beauty of Koh Samui’s beaches, it allowed me to slow down and *really see* the world around me. The best part? I entered that magical state we creators live for-the flow state. Ideas flowed effortlessly onto the page without friction, fatigue, or second-guessing. Limited supplies + limited time = maximum freedom. Who knew?

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Sharing Is Caring (And Inspiring!)

I started sharing these sketches on Substack because they brought me so much joy- and wow, did you guys respond! Reading your comments and seeing how inspired you were by my process filled me with such happiness. There’s nothing quite like creating something you love and then watching others catch the same spark. Creativity isn’t meant to exist in isolation-it thrives when shared. Aaah you guys made my day! @emiliekate @heartfeltboundaries @neela @lightly @anjalikrishnakumar @lisacunninghamdelauney

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So… Want to Try Sketchnoting?

If this sounds like something you’d enjoy, stay tuned! I’m thinking of putting together a beginner’s guide to sketchnoting for my next post. Would you be interested? Let me know in the comments below-I’d love to hear your thoughts!

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The Takeaway: Let Go to Hold On

Here’s the lesson I want you to take away: sometimes, holding on too tightly to creativity drives her away. By stepping back from perfectionism and embracing creative play, I found a whole new level of joy and inspiration. Sketchnoting taught me that creativity doesn’t need to be complicated or polished-it just needs to be *yours*.

P.S: ( not me, making sketchnoting my whole personality:) but if it brings you joy it should be part of your personality. It’s what’s making me a human sunflower ( name given by the sweetest @Madhumitapriyadarshini ) these days !