From Lost to Liberated: How Creativity Changed My Life

Have you ever felt like something inside you is just waiting to break free? That was me, for years.

Hi, I’m Lisa, a self-taught artist who never imagined I’d one day be here, writing this post and sharing my story. Creativity wasn’t always a part of my life—or at least, I didn’t think it was. But as I look back now, I can see how every twist and turn on my journey brought me to this point.

I want to share how stepping away from the conventional path I was on, and finally listening to my inner voice, changed my life. And if you’re feeling stuck or unsure about where to start, I hope my story inspires you to take that first step too.

The Path I Thought I Was Supposed to Follow

For a long time, I believed my future was set. I was on track to become a teacher, following a very traditional route. But life, as it often does, had other plans. A series of events forced me to pivot, and although it was difficult at the time, I now see it as the best thing that could have happened.

In 2007, I opened my own maternity wear store in Cork, Ireland. I was juggling the business, raising three kids under the age of five, and trying to keep things afloat during the recession. It was an incredibly challenging time, and when I made the heartbreaking decision to close the shop in 2015, I felt completely lost.

For years after, I worked part-time in retail jobs, but nothing felt right. There was this constant feeling of unrest, like something inside me was trying to get out, but I kept ignoring it. Life was busy, and I didn’t think I had the time—or the energy—to figure out what that “something” was.

The Turning Point

Everything changed during Covid. Like many of us, I suddenly had time to slow down, reflect, and explore. I began dabbling in art and music, and for the first time in years, I felt happy—truly happy.

Then, in late 2021, my family and I moved from Ireland to Switzerland. This move gave me the headspace to explore my creative side fully. I picked up a paintbrush, started experimenting with colors, and realized I had found something that lit me up inside.

If I Can Do It, So Can You

I know what it’s like to feel stuck or unsure about where to begin. I spent years believing I wasn’t creative or that I didn’t have time to try something new. But the truth is, the only thing holding me back was me.

Here’s what I’ve learned: Creativity doesn’t have to start with a grand plan or hours of free time. It can be as simple as giving yourself permission to play, even for just five minutes a day.

How to Start Your Own Creative Journey

If you’re feeling blocked or uninspired, try this:

1. Quiet the Noise

   Spend a few minutes each day tuning out distractions and tuning into yourself. What do you love? What makes you feel excited or curious? Don’t overthink it—just let the answers come.

2. Find Inspiration

   Platforms like Pinterest are great for sparking ideas. Create a board and pin anything that catches your eye. For me, it was brightly colored art that made me smile. That little exercise was the first step toward picking up a paintbrush.

3. Give Yourself Permission to Play

   It doesn’t matter if you start with scribbling on a page, dancing in your living room, or singing in the shower. Just start. You might be surprised at where it leads.

4. Embrace the Fear

   Starting something new can feel terrifying. I get it—I was so afraid of failing or being judged. But when you push through those fears, you’ll find freedom on the other side.

   
   

Dreamers Are the Changemakers

I truly believe that creativity is essential to feeling whole and at peace. And it’s not just about painting or drawing—it’s about finding what makes your heart sing.

If you don’t know what that is yet, don’t worry. Sometimes, it takes a little exploration to figure it out. But the most important thing is to start.

What’s Next for Me

As I write this, I’m mixing colors for my next painting. My process might be a bit unconventional—I like to start with colors and let them guide me to what comes next.

This year, I’ve also decided to step out of my comfort zone in a big way. I recently launched my first-ever YouTube channel to share my journey and hopefully inspire others to start theirs. A year ago, I would have laughed at the idea of putting myself out there like this. But I promised myself that 2025 would be the year I’d start listening to my inner voice.

So here I am, sharing my story with you.

What About You?

If my story resonates with you, I’d love to hear about it. What’s one small step you can take today to explore your creative side? Leave a comment below or reach out—I’d love to connect.

Remember, every big journey starts with a single step. Say yes to yourself, and watch the magic unfold.

Until next time, Love Lisa xx