Goal Setting for Creatives: Making Plans That Actually Inspire You

Goal Setting for Creatives: Making Plans That Actually Inspire You

 
Clearly Creative Podcast Hosted By Phoebe Seward
 

Hi everyone, and welcome back to Clearly Creative! I’m your host, Phoebe Seward, and I’m thrilled you’re here for Episode 2. This is the podcast where we explore all things creativity, personal growth, and the messy, beautiful journey of being a creative. If you tuned into our first episode, we talked about the magic of messy beginnings. Today, we’re diving into something equally important: goal setting.

But not just any kind of goal setting—we’re talking about goals that actually inspire you. Forget the rigid plans and overwhelming to-do lists. Let’s explore how to create goals that feel aligned with who you are and where you want to go as a creative.

Why Traditional Goal Setting Feels Restrictive

Goal setting can feel hard for creatives—not because we lack motivation but because creativity doesn’t fit neatly into boxes. Creativity thrives in bursts, flow states, and those unpredictable moments of inspiration. Trying to confine it with rigid timelines can feel like putting your creativity in a cage.

I’ve been there—staring at a blank page, trying to force ideas into structured plans, only to feel overwhelmed and uninspired. But here’s the thing: goals can work for your creativity, not against it. The key? Aligning them with your creative rhythm.

 
 

How to Set Goals That Inspire You

  1. Start with Your Why: Ask yourself why this goal matters to you. What draws you to this project or idea? When your goals are connected to something meaningful, they feel less like chores and more like an extension of your creative journey.

  2. Break It Down: Big goals can feel paralyzing. Instead of staring up at the mountain, focus on the next small step. Maybe it’s brainstorming ideas, sketching concepts, or dedicating 20 minutes to your project. Small steps build momentum.

  3. Focus on the Process, Not Just the Outcome: Shift from results-driven goals (like finish a portfolio by March) to process-driven ones (spend two hours a week creating). Consistency in showing up matters more than immediate results.

  4. Stay Flexible: Creativity evolves, and so can your goals. It’s okay to adjust your direction. Flexibility isn’t failure—it’s part of growth.

  5. Visualize Your Goals: If you’re a visual thinker, try mapping your goals with a mind map, sketch, or even a collage. Seeing your ideas visually can make them feel more tangible and exciting.

  6. Celebrate Progress: Don’t wait for the finish line to celebrate. Each step forward, no matter how small, deserves recognition. Finished a draft? Celebrate. Tried a new technique? That’s progress too.

 
 

Closing Thoughts

Goal setting doesn’t have to feel rigid. It can be a powerful tool for clarity, inspiration, and creative growth—when it’s tailored to your process. Remember to stay flexible, honor your unique rhythm, and give yourself credit for showing up.

Thank you for joining me for Episode 2 of Clearly Creative. If this resonated with you, please share it with a friend or leave a review on Apple Podcasts. Don’t forget to check out ClearlyCreativePodcast.com for resources, including a downloadable workbook with prompts and tools to help you uncover your creative voice.

Stay creative and stay true to yourself.

— Phoebe Seward, Host of Clearly Creative

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