Starting Fresh: Why Creative Beginnings Feel Messy (and That’s Okay
Hi everyone, and welcome to the first episode of the Clearly Creative Podcast! I’m your host, Phoebe Seward, and I’m so excited to kick off this journey with you. This is a space where we talk about creativity, growth, and the not-so-glamorous moments that shape us as creators. Whether you’re a designer, an artist, a writer, or someone just exploring your creative side, this podcast is for you.
Today, we’re diving into a topic that feels especially relevant: starting fresh. Let’s be honest, beginnings can feel messy. But here’s the truth: that’s not a bad thing. In fact, it’s often the best part of the process.
Why Do Beginnings Feel So Overwhelming?
When we start something new, we’re often juggling two conflicting ideas. On one hand, we’re excited by the possibilities—a fresh start is full of potential. But on the other, the blank canvas can feel like it’s staring back, asking, “What do you have to offer?” And that question? It’s loaded.
Perfectionism often sneaks in. We want our first draft, design, or attempt to be flawless. But here’s the truth: the first version is never perfect. And it’s not supposed to be.
When I launched my first big design project, I spent weeks—maybe months—agonizing over every detail. I’d redesign elements ten times over, only to scrap them completely. Looking back, I realize I wasn’t afraid of failing. I was afraid of starting imperfectly. And that fear kept me stuck longer than it should have.
Messy Beginnings Are Where the Magic Happens
Messy beginnings aren’t a sign of failure—they’re proof you’re doing the work. Creativity is a process of exploration. You’re figuring things out, trying ideas on for size, and learning as you go.
Think about it:
When a painter starts a new piece, the first strokes on the canvas are rough.
When a writer begins a novel, the first draft is full of awkward sentences.
When a designer sketches concepts, the early ideas are rarely polished.
But without those first rough attempts, the masterpiece never happens.
How to Make Peace with Messy Beginnings
So, how do we get comfortable with messy starts? Here are a few strategies that have helped me:
Start Small: Staring at a massive project can feel paralyzing. Instead, focus on the tiniest step forward. Jot down a single idea, set up your workspace, or sketch out a rough concept. The magic happens when you start, even if it feels insignificant.
Set a Timer: Give yourself 20 minutes to create—anything. No judgment, no pressure for brilliance. Just freedom to play. Often, the hardest part is simply beginning.
Redefine Failure: Mistakes aren’t the enemy—they’re stepping stones. Every creative misstep is a lesson wrapped in disguise. The moments when things don’t go as planned often teach us the most.
Celebrate Every Step Forward
Just starting is worth celebrating. Think about it—every great idea, every masterpiece, every innovation started somewhere. It started messy. It started with someone saying, “Okay, let’s try this.”
If you’ve taken even the tiniest step toward your creative dream, you’re already ahead.
Closing Thoughts
As we wrap up today, I want to leave you with this: starting fresh is an act of bravery. It’s messy, yes. But it’s also full of possibility. Every great project, every beautiful piece of art, every meaningful creative journey—they all began with a messy first step.
So whatever you’re starting this year, give yourself permission to embrace the mess. Trust that the process will lead you somewhere amazing. And remember, you’re not alone in this. We’re figuring it out together.
Thank you so much for joining me for this first episode of Clearly Creative. If this resonated with you, I’d love for you to share it with a friend or leave a review on Apple Podcasts. And if you’ve got questions or topics you’d like me to cover in future episodes, reach out! I’d love to hear from you.
Until next time, stay creative and stay true to yourself.
— Phoebe Seward, Host of Clearly Creative
