If creativity were a person, she'd be that unpredictable friend who shows up whenever she feels like it—sometimes unannounced at 3 a.m. just as you’re drifting off to sleep, and other times, ghosting you for weeks when you need her most. I’ll admit, my relationship with creativity hasn’t always been smooth sailing. Thankfully, I’ve picked up a few rituals over the years that coax her out of hiding and, most importantly, keep me from losing my mind in the process.
Let’s dive into what keeps my ideas flowing, my pen moving, and my sanity (mostly) intact.
Mornings Fueled by Coffee and Nostalgia
Every morning begins the same way: me, standing in my kitchen, waiting for my cafecito to brew while my Spotify playlist serves up a mix of Celia Cruz and Bad Bunny. There’s just something about that first sip of coffee—rich, slightly sweet, and undeniably Cuban—that feels like a shot of creative adrenaline.
But it’s not just about the caffeine. Nostalgia plays a big part in this ritual. The smell of the cafetera simmering reminds me of my abuela’s kitchen on a lazy Sunday. It’s grounding in the best way, connecting me to my roots before I start creating something new.
Pro Tip: Tap into your own nostalgia to kickstart your day. Whether it’s playing your favorite childhood songs or cooking a meal that tastes like home, those familiar moments can be fertile ground for creativity. Bonus points if it involves caffeine.
The Power of Telenovela Drama
When I hit a creative wall—and trust me, it happens more often than I’d like to admit—I take a break and queue up the most over-the-top telenovela I can find. (Yes, I spent one too many late nights binging La Usurpadora during college, and no, I have no regrets.)
There’s nothing quite like watching some character’s identical twin—who was presumed dead—come back to exact revenge to remind you that your writing can always be a little more daring. Melodrama may not appear in every line I write, but it serves as a juicy reminder to embrace bold emotions and unexpected twists in my work.
Try This: Find your creative “reset button.” Maybe it’s a telenovela, maybe it’s rewatching a favorite movie (Legally Blonde, anyone?)—anything that rekindles your emotional spark and reminds you that good storytelling is about leaning into the highs and lows.
Walks Through the East End
Houston’s East End has a rhythm you can’t ignore—bright murals that demand to be noticed, the smell of fresh tortillas wafting from Panaderías, and neighbors calling out to each other in a Spanglish that feels like home.
When the words won’t come, I grab my sneakers and take a walk around my neighborhood. It’s impossible to ignore the sensory symphony happening around me, and before long, I’m dictating messy phrases into the notes app on my phone as inspiration strikes. Conversations overheard, graffiti that speaks louder than any caption—it’s all material for later.
Why This Works: Creative energy is contagious. Surround yourself with vibrant environments, whether it’s a lively part of town, a flea market, or even a busy coffee shop, and let yourself absorb the energy. Inspiration usually follows.
Obsessively Asking “What If?”
Here’s a fun exercise I stole from my high school days of journaling: Every time I’m stuck, I run through the most dramatic “what ifs” I can think of. What if your partner had a secret second life? What if your neighbor is hiding a treasure map? What if this article self-destructs the second you finish reading it?
Sure, most of these ideas are too far-fetched to leave the page. But this exercise reminds me to push past surface-level thinking and explore the unexpected. It’s also low-stakes and incredibly fun—I dare you to try it without laughing at least once.
Creative Prompt Alert: Next time you’re stuck, write down five “What if” questions. Bonus points if at least one is completely absurd. Even if you never use those specific ideas, the exercise might help loosen up your brain.
People-Watching: My Favorite Free Workshop
There’s an unspoken rule among storytellers: If you’re sitting in a coffee shop and someone looks just the right kind of suspicious, you’re definitely making up their life story in your head. Let them think you’re scrolling TikTok when, really, you’re drafting an imaginary love triangle involving the barista and two regulars. This is 90% of my creative writing process.
Growing up, family gatherings were full of loud tias who never held back their opinions (“Did you see what she wore to the wedding? ¡Qué horror!”). As a kid, I’d sit quietly in the corner, fascinated by how one offhand comment could spiral into a dramatic retelling of someone’s life. Years later, this habit of observing and piecing things together turned into my foundation for crafting rich characters and dynamics.
Join the Fun: Dedicate some time to low-stakes people-watching. Whether it’s at a park, a mall, or even while waiting in line at the grocery store, challenge yourself to imagine the backstory of the person in front of you. You might uncover something worth turning into art.
Dancing It Out Like Nobody’s Watching
Listen, if Shakira’s “Hips Don’t Lie” isn’t on your creative playlist, what are you waiting for? As someone who grew up surrounded by salsa and cumbia at family cookouts, movement has always felt like an antidote to whatever funk I’m in—creative or emotional.
When my ideas feel stale, I push my chair back, blast my favorite songs, and dance like I’m fifteen again with zero coordination but infinite joy. It works every time. Science probably has an explanation for why (endorphins, right?), but honestly, I don’t care. I just know it works.
Life Hack: A five-minute solo dance party is a foolproof way to shake off creative blocks. Plus, your dog or your roommate might think you’re unhinged, which is just a fun bonus.
Wrapping It All Up: Staying Kind to Myself
I used to think that being creative meant producing constantly, but I’ve learned—thanks to a few burnouts—that rest is as crucial as work. It’s okay to step away, to realize you’re human and not a robot programmed to churn out brilliance 24/7. Some of my best ideas have come after I’ve given myself permission to do absolutely nothing for a while.
At the core of my creative rituals is kindness toward myself. Whether it’s allowing time to take a walk, letting music move me, or laughing through another outlandish “what if” scenario, these moments aren’t just about inspiration—they’re about creating space to actually enjoy the process.
So, if creativity feels elusive right now, don’t stress. Pour yourself some cafecito, binge a dramatic TV series, or dance it out like you’re the star of your own novela. She’ll come back around—you just have to pave the way and, more importantly, leave the door wide open.
