In a world that is getting increasingly digital and virtual, making is one of the most undervalued skills we have. From cooking to art to building, crafting is an activity that brings a sense of fulfillment and purpose to the people who engage in it. It is also a great way to spend time with children, teaching them that it’s okay to make mistakes and to first look for a solution rather than just giving up if they can’t figure out how to do something on the first try. The hands-on nature of crafts also allows kids to build self-esteem and confidence, a feeling that is especially important for their cognitive development.

While the idea of being creative can sometimes be intimidating – we’re left with visions of some of history’s greatest painters, musicians, and sculptors – it doesn’t have to be that way. Creativity can be found in all activities and every person has at least some creativity inside of them. It can be a hobby like painting, drawing, or photography or it can be as simple as dancing in your bedroom after work, creating a joke, writing a poem, or even just writing in a journal.

A lot of people think that it takes a special sort of person to be an artist, and while there is a chunk of truth in this, there are many other reasons why being creative is good for you. It can help you build empathy, for example, which is a huge benefit for teachers and parents, as well as it can boost your mental health. In fact, a study in the British Medical Journal suggests that participation in artistic activity reduces dementia risk.

One of the best parts about being creative is that it makes you feel good, physically and mentally. It boosts your mood, improves your focus, and can even help you sleep better. It’s also a great way to express yourself and a way to relieve stress and tension. It can also teach you a lot about yourself, including your strengths and weaknesses. It can also help you develop a sense of accomplishment and pride.

Making things by hand also helps you appreciate the things that you already have. It’s easy to take things for granted when you live in a society where everything is so accessible, but if you make a list of the things you have that are homemade or have been made by hand, it can be a very eye-opening experience.

There are so many benefits to making and it’s a skill that everyone should be taught at some point. It can be a fun family activity, a creative outlet, or a way to save money on home décor and gifts. The most important thing is to find what you love to do and then go for it!