Photo by Annie Spratt on Unsplash
It’s hard to believe, but in less than a month, we’ll be ringing in a New Year. So, while we prepare for the upcoming festive holidays, it’s a perfect time to reflect on the past year and create goals for the coming year. While most people choose to lose weight, or quit smoking in the New Year, we believe you should choose a goal or goals that you’re passionate about and know you’ll keep throughout the year. We’re a creative bunch at Papertrey Ink and we know you are as well. So, in 2018, why don’t you make your New Year’s resolution to be more creative?
The Many Benefits of Being Creative
Embracing our inner child and being creative is good for our mind, body, and soul. It doesn’t matter if you enjoy painting, drawing, sculpting, or sewing, using your right-brain and creating something, can make you a healthier person. Being creative can help you become a better problem solver as you’ll have to use your creativity to solve problems in your artwork. Creativity and using your hands and minds to create art is a major stress relief. Painting a beautiful sunset or crafting the perfect holiday card can bring you lots of joy that reduces your stress levels.
Being creative can also help you become more self-aware and allow to express your true thoughts, feelings, and beliefs in your art. A 2015 medical study conducted by the Mayo Clinic discovered that people who engaged in creative art activities in middle and old age showed delays in cognitive decline in very old age. But, you probably don’t need any science studies to back up what you already knew – being creative is good for you.
Sample Creative New Year’s Resolutions
It’s time to make a different New Year’s resolution this year! Organize your craft room and break out all your new supplies and it’s time to get started on your creative goals in 2018. Not sure where to start? Here are a few sample New Year’s Resolutions that will get your creative juices flowing in 2018.
Make Your Own Handmade Wedding Invitations
Did you know that the average couple spends about $650 on wedding invitations and some spend upwards of $3000? If you or one of your friends or family members is crafty, then make your own handmade wedding invitations and save some serious dough! Not only can you save a lot of money, but you can create a truly unique invitation that is special to both you and your partner.
Send One Handwritten Card a Week
We correspond so much by email these day that the only thing we get in the mailbox is junk mail and bills. Surprise your friends, families, and other people with a beautifully handcrafted card or letter just from you. It doesn’t have to be a birthday card or a “get well” card. A “just because” card is always a welcomed surprise. As Betsy mentioned, “it’s a great time to use products you haven’t used yet.” If you run out of people to send cards to, why not send them to the troops overseas or a charity!
Finally Finish That Scrapbook You Started Two Years Ago
Scrapbooking is a wonderful way to preserve your memories for years to come. However, it can be a very time-consuming pastime and perhaps life just got in the way of finishing your first book. Now is the perfect time to finish your scrapbook. Set some monthly goals and just get started. We have tons of scrapbooking supplies to get you moving again.
Start a Creative Business
In the new world of “side hustling” and the “gig economy,” millions of people are making extra money outside their jobs by doing something they love. You don’t have to become an Uber driver or rent your craft room out on Airbnb to make some extra cash. Perhaps all your friends and family keep saying your handmade cards are incredible and that you should sell them? It’s time to take the wise words of Nike and just do it! Start selling your handcrafted goods on Facebook, local craft fairs, or even on Etsy.
Create a Journal to Help You Achieve Your 2018 Goals
No matter what your New Year’s resolution, it’s important to track your goals to keep yourself accountable. Creating a customized journal or agenda can help you achieve those goals. Maybe you want to put your green thumb to good use and turn your hobby garden into the blue ribbon winning garden at the local home and garden show or maybe you are meal planning to help you lose those last stubborn pounds. No matter what your 2018 New Year’s resolution is, our ambassadors and team contributors have some great ideas for you.
Papertrey Ink Team 2018 Resolutions
“I plan to use more colors that I don’t normally use on my designs.”
“I plan to organize all my stamps, supplies, and my craft room this year!”
“I plan to use all my unopened supplies that I bought and haven’t used yet.”
Make 2018 Your Most Creative Year Yet
Once the clock strikes 12 on January 1st, it’s time to welcome in the new year and all the hopes and wishes it brings. The New Year is a great time to finish some projects or start new ones. Set some dedicated creative time aside each week and you never know what you may achieve in 2018. Whether it’s stamps, cards, scrapbooking, or more, we’re always here to supply you with all your creative needs and provide a little inspiration.
Happy New Year from our family to yours!
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