Dear creative mind,

Today, we're diving into some crucial questions that many of us grapple with: “How do I stop rebelling against my own structure?” and “How can I find more flow in my art-making process?” If you ever feel like your creative process is constantly interrupted by inner conflicts, or if you’ve tried to support yourself with structure but end up rebelling against it, this conversation is for you.

You can listen to the podcast episode here.

Understanding Resistance to Structure

Resistance to structure is a common issue among creatives. We often experience this inner conflict where we know that structure can help us, yet we continually push back against it. This could be a writing routine, a marketing strategy, or any content creation ritual. We set up these systems to create more flow and consistency in our process, but then our inner rebel surfaces and refuses to comply.

What's Behind the Resistance?

To understand this resistance, it's crucial to ask yourself what might be lying underneath it. What makes it challenging for you to create and maintain structure? What beliefs or fears are contributing to this inner opposition?

The Creative Mind and Divergent Thinking

One factor to consider is the nature of a creative mind, which often operates through divergent thinking. This means exploring many different possibilities and solutions simultaneously, as opposed to convergent thinking, which focuses on finding a single, correct solution. Divergent thinking is fantastic for creativity but can clash with the need for structured, linear approaches.

Divergent thinking isn’t synonymous with neurodivergence, though neurodivergent individuals might also find structure challenging. Even neurotypical individuals can have a divergent thinking style that makes structured situations difficult. This doesn’t mean something is wrong with you; it’s just a natural aspect of how creative minds work.

Reframing Your Relationship with Structure

To navigate this tension between our need for freedom and the benefits of structure, we must reframe our relationship with structure. Instead of viewing structure as a rigid framework that stifles creativity, consider how it can serve your creative process. Here are some steps to help bridge the gap between these opposing needs:

Practice Self-Compassion

Start by holding deep compassion for yourself. Let go of the judgment you might feel for struggling with structure. Remember, it’s not easy to balance divergent thinking with structured approaches, especially when freedom is a core value.

Understand Your Inner Conflict

Get to know the parts of you that resist structure. What are their intentions? These parts exist for a reason, often to keep you safe or preserve your sense of freedom. Understanding their purpose can help you address the root of the conflict.

Create a Freeing Structure

Think about how you can design a structure that feels freeing rather than restrictive. Could you reframe tasks as rituals to make them more enjoyable? Break down routines into simple, manageable steps. For example, a writing ritual could involve putting your phone away, brewing a favorite tea, playing a specific playlist, setting a small goal, and using a timer.

Incorporate Flexibility and Fun

Make your structure flexible and fun. This could involve having an accountability buddy, setting up a reward system for completing tasks, or regularly reviewing and adjusting your routines to keep them aligned with your evolving needs.

Reflect and Seek Support

After considering these steps, take some time to journal or meditate on how you can make structure work for you. Remember, you don’t have to do this alone. Seek support from friends, mentors, or coaches who can help you break down goals into actionable plans and brainstorm routines that suit your creative flow.

By shifting how you relate to structure, you can create a system that supports your creativity without stifling it. Structure can be liberating rather than confining. How can you make this possible for yourself? I’d love to hear your thoughts and experiences!

Curious about how coaching can support you this season? I'd be delighted to hold space for you in a complimentary clarity session.