Disconnect to Reconnect: Creativity Beyond the School Year

What happens when we give ourselves permission to slow down? And how might moments of rest, reflection, and play help fuel our creativity for the year ahead? In this special summer episode of the Fueling Creativity in Education Podcast, Dr. Matthew Worwood and Dr. Cyndi Burnett reflect on the end of another school year and share their plans for disconnecting, recharging, and reconnecting with the activities that bring them joy and inspiration. Listen in as they discuss the importance of creating space for mind wandering, creative hobbies, and meaningful experiences beyond work. They also offer a preview of the upcoming summer Listen and Learn series, inspired by their new book, The Future Creative: 10 Actions for Fueling Creativity in Education. In this thoughtful conversation, they explore: – Why creativity often needs periods of rest and recovery – How slowing down can help us think more clearly and creatively – The value of disconnecting from technology and productivity pressures – Why mind wandering can be a powerful creative practice – How hobbies and personal interests can help restore energy and focus – The importance of reconnecting with activities you loved as a child – Why creativity should be nurtured both inside and outside of work – How small daily habits can support wellbeing and creative thinking – The challenge of balancing professional goals with personal renewal – Ways educators can create space for reflection during school breaks – How AI might help reduce routine tasks while preserving meaningful creative work – What listeners can expect from the upcoming Listen and Learn summer series Dr. Matthew shares how golf has become a creative outlet that helps him disconnect from work and focus on learning, growth, and being present in the moment. Dr. Cyndi reflects on returning to dance after many years away and the joy of reconnecting with a lifelong passion that has always been part of her creative identity.   If you are an educator preparing for the months ahead, this episode offers encouragement to slow down, make space for yourself, and embrace the experiences that help creativity flourish. Be sure to subscribe to your favorite platform and sign up for our Extra Fuel newsletter for more resources and inspiration. Visit FuelingCreativityPodcast.com for more information or email us at [email protected].