What Chronic Illness Taught Me About Creativity

There's something I've been thinking about for quite a while now. It's something I've talked about with close friends, but hardly ever publicly. Not because it's a secret. And certainly not because I'm embarrassed by it. I think, if I'm honest, I just never wanted it to define me. But over the last few years, I've realised that by not talking about it, I've probably left out one of the biggest reasons I think the way I do. Because so many of you write to me about Long Covid, chronic fatigue, chronic pain, burnout, depression, caring responsibilities and all the unexpected things that change what we're capable of physically or mentally, it feels like the right time to have this conversation. I'm not a doctor or a neuroscientist and this isn't an episode about fixing chronic illness or pretending mindset alone can overcome real physical limitations. It's about what happens when life changes, and you quietly keep comparing yourself with the person you used to be. Today, I explore what chronic illness has taught me about creativity, why so many artists find themselves grieving a version of themselves they've lost, and share some practical ways to work with your energy instead of constantly fighting against it. KEY TAKEAWAYS One of the hardest parts of illness, burnout or unexpected change isn't simply what it takes away physically. It's the quiet loss of identity that comes from comparing yourself with who you used to be. Instead of managing time, start managing energy. Becoming curious about the conditions that help you think, create, and recover allows you to build a creative practice that works with the life you have now. Acceptance isn't giving up on treatment or ensuring that things improve. It's simply saying this is where I am today, because once we stop arguing with today's reality, things drastically improve. Protect your energy from the things that deplete you but be sure not to let fear disguise itself as self-care. Learn to tell the difference between a genuine need for rest from avoidance. It is key to building a brave, sustainable creative life. BEST MOMENTS "I hadn't realised you could grieve your own life." “What people couldn't see was the constant calculation happening in the background. Could I afford (the energy) to go out tonight?” "Become a student of your well-being.'" "Ask, what are the conditions that allow this version of me to flourish?" PODCAST HOST BIO With over 35 years in the art world, Ceri has worked closely with leading artists and arts professionals, managed public and private galleries and charities, and curated more than 250 exhibitions and events. She has sold artworks to major museums and private collectors and commissioned thousands of works across diverse media, from renowned artists such as John Akomfrah, Pipilotti Rist, Rafael Lozano-Hemmer and Vito Acconci. Now, she wants to share her extensive knowledge with you, so you can excel and achieve your goals. **** Ceri Hand Coaching Membership: Group coaching, live art surgeries, exclusive masterclasses, portfolio reviews, weekly challenges. Access our library of content and resource hub anytime and enjoy special discounts within a vibrant community of peers and professionals. Ready to transform your art career? Join today! https://cerihand.com/membership/ **** Unlock Your Artworld Network Self Study Course Our self-study video course, "Unlock Your Artworld Network," offers a straightforward 5-step framework to help you build valuable relationships effortlessly. Gain the tools and confidence you need to create new opportunities and thrive in the art world today. https://cerihand.com/courses/unlock_your_artworld_network/ **** Book a Discovery Call Today To schedule a personalised 1-2-1 coaching session with Ceri or explore our group coaching options, simply email us at [email protected] **** Discover Your Extraordinary Creativity Visit www.cerihand.com to learn how we can help you become an extraordinary creative. This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/