Rediscover forgotten parts of yourself through creativity.
When was the last time you made something just because it brought you joy? As teachers and caregivers, we often live in “output mode”—creating for others, producing results, and supporting everyone else's development. But creativity isn't just for kids or the classroom. It's a lifeline back to parts of ourselves we may have forgotten in the daily hustle.
This summer, give yourself permission to play. Not for a grade, a performance, or anyone else’s approval—but because your inner artist is still alive and well. When we engage in creative hobbies, we give ourselves room to breathe, to explore, and to reconnect with wonder.
Here are five joyful and restorative hobbies you can explore this summer:
Step 1: Start a Summer Watercolor or Sketchbook Journal
Paint or draw your way through the season.
Now, a lot of people think they’re not “good” at art, so they never try. Teachers, especially, may shy away from creative hobbies unless they can teach them or do them “right.” Usually, you can bypass self-doubt by reframing creativity as a personal ritual—not a performance.
For example, I started a summer sketchbook where I simply add one watercolor, doodle, or quote a day. Some pages are messy. Some are beautiful. All of them are me. This process has helped me slow down, notice beauty in ordinary things, and enjoy creating again.
Step 2: Learn a New Musical Instrument or Revisit an Old One
Let sound and rhythm spark joy.
Now, a lot of people believe it’s “too late” to start something like music. Teachers may think they don’t have time or feel intimidated by learning something totally new. Usually, you can rekindle your passion by starting small and staying curious.
For example, I bought a secondhand ukulele and watched beginner videos on YouTube. I play in 10-minute bursts whenever I need a mental break. There’s something soothing about strumming and singing softly to yourself—it’s an invitation to be playful, imperfect, and present.
Step 3: Take a Pottery or Crafting Workshop
Get your hands dirty—and your mind at ease.
Now, a lot of people shy away from tactile art forms, worrying they’ll mess up or waste materials. Teachers, used to guiding others, may forget the joy of learning something from scratch. Usually, you can unlock that creative freedom by embracing the beginner’s mindset.
For example, I signed up for a local “mugs and mindfulness” pottery night. I came home with a slightly lopsided mug—and a heart full of calm. There was laughter, concentration, and the gentle rhythm of shaping clay. It reminded me that creating with my hands slows down my thoughts in the best way.
Step 4: Try Photography with a Storytelling Project
Capture your world through your unique lens.
Now, a lot of people take photos every day, but rarely stop to reflect on what they’re capturing. Teachers may use their phones as tools rather than creative outlets. Usually, you can reawaken your sense of wonder by approaching photography as a form of storytelling.
For example, I created a “100 Moments of Summer” photo challenge. One photo a day—no rules, no filters—just scenes that catch my eye. Flowers in bloom. Chalk on the sidewalk. A shadow across my journal. It’s helped me notice life’s quieter beauty, frame by frame.
Step 5: Explore Creative Writing—From Poetry to Short Stories
Write what wants to come through you.
Now, a lot of people think they’re not writers unless they publish. Teachers may feel pressure to write academically or only for work. Usually, you can nurture your creativity by allowing words to flow freely—on your terms.
For example, I started writing poetry again this summer. Some days it’s just a few lines; other days, a story takes shape. I don’t write for anyone else. I write to connect with myself—and that has been the most freeing part of all.
Closing
I hope that you enjoyed reading this blog post, written especially for you. It was taken straight from my mind and heart as I felt vulnerable to share glimpses of my world with you. The article was polished and meticulously reviewed to make sure it was in the best possible light before it was published so that it may serve you well.
If you’re seeking additional resources or personalized support, feel free to reach out at www.insightfuleducation.org. Together, we can cultivate classrooms where you and your students feel empowered to learn and thrive, which is aligned with the NICE Teacher framework (Nurturing, Integrated, Courageous, and Encouraging).