The Artist’s Way Revisited

If you asked me what my favourite book is, I’d say without hesitation: The Artist’s Way. But I have a confession to make — while I’ve read this book several times, I’ve never actually made it to the end. I always seem to get stuck around chapter 8. By that point, I’ve already benefited so much from the practice that I guess I feel like I don’t need to finish it.

For those who haven’t heard of it, The Artist’s Way by Julia Cameron is a guide to unlocking creativity. It’s part workbook, part therapy, and all about helping you reconnect with your creative self. The structure is simple but powerful: you work through one chapter a week. Each chapter includes a reading, daily “morning pages” — three pages of free-flowing journaling to get your thoughts and self-doubt out of your head — and an “artist date,” which is about taking yourself out, alone, to do something inspiring. There are also exercises, questions, and prompts to explore your creativity and reflect on what’s holding you back.

Even if you don’t consider yourself “creative,” I find this book more like therapy than strict creative unblocking. It’s a chance to slow down, reflect, and make space for yourself. I can confirm that even though I’ve never completed the final exercise, this book has pulled me out of a funk many times.

And guess what — I’m in need of its magical powers again. It’s been a bit of a rough year, and I think it’s time to call on my old friend Julia Cameron. This time, I promise I will complete it. There, I’ve said it out loud — you’re witness.

If you want to join me, I’m going to try to share what I’m up to over on Instagram. Book club, anyone?