8 ways to keep your creativity thriving during your studies

Living in student halls is an exciting chapter of life, filled with new experiences and opportunities for growth.

But let’s face it - it can be a bit chaotic, which makes nurturing your creativity more important as art school kids.

Communications Lead at Cordwainers, Gayatri Gundu (she/her) has shared her top tips below that she's found helpful for staying inspired while living in halls . ✨

1. Decrease Screen Time 📵

Constant dopamine hits from scrolling through social media can take a toll on our creativity. When we’re constantly consuming, it becomes harder to create.

Try setting boundaries for your screen time. Replace scrolling with moments of stillness or reflective activities that allow your mind to wander—that’s when the best ideas often strike!

2. Take Up a Hobby 🧶

Engaging in hobbies that don’t involve screens can be a fantastic way to spark creativity. I’m personally thinking of taking up crocheting. Imagine the cute clothes you can make for yourself just in time for summer! Whether it’s painting, cooking, or learning an instrument, hobbies can help channel your creative energy in fun, productive ways.

3. Attend Halls Life Events 🥳

Your hall’s events are great for meeting like-minded people and connecting with your community. Whether it’s a trivia night, a workshop, or a themed party, the Halls Life Events create spaces for lively debates and fresh conversations that can reset your mood and inspire your creativity.

4. Take Walks 🌷

Spending time in nature is an underrated way to clear your mind. Whether it’s a walk around the block or a trip to a nearby park, stepping outside helps you reconnect with the world and sparks new ideas. Plus, there’s something grounding about literally “touching grass” and taking a moment to just breathe.

5. Maintain a "Commonplace" Book 📔

This is one of my favourite tips. A commonplace book is a tiny notebook you keep with you to jot down fleeting ideas, quotes, or inspirations.

It’s amazing how many little thoughts we lose during the day because we didn’t capture them. Keeping this book ensures those moments aren’t wasted.

6. Collaborate with People in Your Hall 🫂

Living in halls gives you access to a diverse group of people, each with their own skills and perspectives.

Collaborate on creative projects—whether it’s brainstorming for an assignment, filming a fun video, or even just redecorating your shared spaces together. The best ideas often come from bouncing thoughts off others.

7. Organise Your Space 😌

A tidy room might not work for everyone, but for me, it’s essential. Decluttering and organizing my space gives me a fresh perspective and clears the noise in my brain. Even small actions, like making your bed or rearranging your desk, can make a difference in how inspired you feel.

8. Experiment and Stay Open 😺

Creativity thrives when we’re willing to try new things. Whether it’s experimenting with a new art form, cooking a dish you’ve never made before, or joining an entirely new club, stepping outside your comfort zone can lead to unexpected bursts of inspiration.

Liked this article from Gayatri? Here's another article from her where she shares 5 simple ways to turn your student room into a calm space. 🏡