Okay, confession time:
I never finished The Artist’s Way.
But even without making it through all twelve weeks, this creativity course totally shifted how I think, work, and show up.
If you haven’t heard of it, The Artist’s Way by Julia Cameron is a 12-week program designed to help you reconnect with your creativity. It’s part workbook, part self-discovery guide, and honestly, part therapy session for your creative soul. While it’s technically written for artists, it’s really for anyone who’s feeling stuck or searching for a little more joy, purpose, or inspiration in life.
When I started it, I was all in—journaling every morning, taking myself on weekly “artist dates,” doing the exercises. I didn’t finish the full program, but here’s the thing: I didn’t need to. Even part of it helped me reconnect to my creative voice and set things in motion.
And that’s what makes it so powerful—it works even if you don’t do it perfectly.
One Artist Date Changed Everything
One of the core tools in the book is something called the “artist date”—basically, a solo adventure to fill your creative tank. One week, I decided to visit another artist’s studio—Christy Holmes of Urban Art Collective. I almost didn’t go, but I’m so glad I did.
While we were chatting, I casually asked her who she used for printing her work. That one question? It sparked a whole new idea—one that eventually became my “Take Care of Your Tribe” collection.
That line, filled with meaningful symbolism and heartfelt storytelling, became one of my bestsellers. It resonated deeply with people looking for art with purpose, thoughtful gifts, and work that honored friendship and community. The message mattered:
Friendship is everything. Our people—our tribe—are who carry us.
And I don’t think that idea would have ever come to me if I hadn’t said yes to that little creative nudge. That’s the kind of ripple effect The Artist’s Way can have.
What The Artist’s Way Can Unlock
Even if you only do part of it (like me!), here’s what you can expect:
1. Clarity and calm.
Those daily morning pages help you unload the mental clutter and hear your own voice again.
2. A spark of joy.
Artist dates feel like play again—something most of us forget to make time for.
3. A shift in mindset.
The program helps you recognize all the creative blocks and stories you’ve picked up along the way—and gently release them.
4. Real momentum.
Even small steps lead somewhere. It doesn’t have to be perfect to be powerful.
Ready to Start Your Own Creative Journey?
If you’re curious, here’s a link to the book on Amazon (yep, this is an affiliate link, which means if you purchase through it, I may receive a small commission—at no extra cost to you). I only recommend what I truly believe in, and this book has absolutely earned its spot.
Want a little extra motivation? Check out Kristen Garaffo’s Substack post about how finishing The Artist’s Way helped her accidentally launch a creative business. It’s a beautiful, real-life example of what’s possible when you say yes to your creativity.
So here’s your gentle nudge:
Start small. Follow your curiosity.
Say yes to one morning of journaling or one artist date.
You never know where it might lead.
All my best,
Leah