It’s because they’re simply more open to having hobbies. They are more open to novel experiences and often turn to their creative endeavors when working through challenges. These seemingly unrelated scientific pursuits and personal hobbies can open doors for scientists to crosspollinate ideas across different fields, enabling them to gain fresh perspectives and uncover new insights.

Now, you may not be working toward securing the title of a Nobel laureate. Still, you might be interested in learning the secrets of expanding your mind, creating new connections, and better integrating the two sides of your brain hemispheres to provide better care or nurture your inner life.

You may be wondering how having an artistic hobby or winning a Nobel Prize in science relates to excelling as a diabetes specialist or healthcare professional. As a healthcare professional, you have likely lived through difficult experiences or witnessed profound suffering firsthand.

Plenty of science supports the idea that engaging in creative pursuits offers an outlet to express complex emotions that are not accessible through words alone.

The act of playing an instrument, taking an art class, exploring nature, or playing the bongo drums may provide a gateway to address unrequited trauma or pain, helping you to become more fully aware and present with your feelings. Did you have a childhood or adult hobby you loved doing? One that made you lose track of time as you entered the zone referred to as “flow”? Have you given yourself permission to make time for that hobby and lose yourself in that creative process?

You may want to take a ceramics or writing class, join the local choir, or start a band. Perhaps you found an old camera and want to learn more about photography or realized you’re good at painting. It can be hard to start as a beginner and potentially look silly or unskilled.

Here’s my advice: Let go of those sky-high expectations. No one expects you to paint like Monet in your first art class.

My motto is, if something makes me uncomfortable, I know I’m in the right place—because that’s where growth happens.

I encourage you to take that leap of faith and tolerate the momentary discomfort for long-term gain. It gets better, and before you know it, you will blossom in ways you never expected.

Download this worksheet to explore 20 creative endeavors that may spark inspiration within you. You may already be practicing some of these—or perhaps you have new ideas to add. Wonderful—keep going!

As a dance teacher for the past twenty years who can still balance a sword on her head, I am reminded every day that it is never too late to rediscover your joy.

• You can listen to FREE Audio Version of Chapter 6 here >> on The Power of Self-Expression and Creative Endeavors.
• You can also purchase the entire book, Healing through Connection for Healthcare Professionals in Audible or Kindle by clicking here.
• Download Creativity Worksheet here.