In one interview, with 2Pac, the interviewer stated, “Well, at least being in jail gives you plenty of time to write great songs.” 2Pac shook his head and replied, “It’s the opposite. Prison kills your creativity, kills your soul.”
It sounds strangely familiar to what I am, and I know many others are, going through right now. Covid has wreaked havoc on our whole year. It has left loads of idle time which is ripe for creativity and innovation. While we are not literally in jail, this never ending cycle of stay-at-home orders and businesses open and closing, it sure makes it hard to find inspiration or a spark of creativity. I spend many days trying to “force” creativity. This, naturally, does not work and it gets me more down on myself because it reminds me that I am an artist struggling to create right now.
Be sure ta take care of yourself in these times. Don’t overthink things, don’t get down on yourself and don’t let bipolar take the wheel. I have to keep reminding myself that creativity will come in due time. As it always does. I cannot force it. All I’m doing is feeding into bipolar’s favorites, depression and anxiety. We are in an incredibly stressful l time. Be kind to yourself, do not add more stress onto an already very stressful and depressing situation, remember, there can be power in reaching out for help. We will get through this. It’s just taking a little bit longer than we were hoping for. Setting up video chats with friends and family, going for a walk, having a plan for your next day, these are just a few small steps that you can take to take care of your mental health. Stay well.