Every year on 13th November, World Kindness Day encourages us to think about the ways we can make a positive difference through kindness.

But kindness isn’t just about what we do for other people. It’s also about how we look after ourselves.

And one lovely way to practise a little self-kindness is through creativity.

Whether it’s drawing, painting, crafting or simply spending time with a sketchbook, creative hobbies can offer far more than the satisfaction of making something beautiful.

So, in celebration of World Kindness Day, let’s explore five ways drawing and creativity can support your wellbeing, and why making time for something you enjoy is so important.

1. Drawing can help you relax and unwind

Have you ever sat down to draw and suddenly realised an hour has flown by?

When you’re concentrating on the direction of a pencil stroke, choosing colours or building up layers, your attention naturally shifts towards what you’re doing.

For many people, this focused activity provides a welcome break from everyday worries. In fact, it’s one of the reasons coloured pencil drawing can be so beneficial for our mental wellbeing.

It gives us an opportunity to slow down, switch off from everything else and concentrate on one thing at a time.

And the lovely thing is, you don’t need to be an experienced artist to enjoy it. 🥰

2. Creativity encourages mindfulness

Mindfulness is all about paying attention to the present moment, rather than getting caught up in everything that’s happened or what might happen next.

And drawing can be a lovely way to practise it.

Think about the little details involved in creating a coloured pencil drawing. Observing the shapes in your reference photograph, noticing subtle changes in colour and carefully building up texture.

3. Learning to draw can build confidence

One of the most rewarding parts of learning a creative skill is discovering what you’re capable of.

Perhaps you start by learning how to blend two colours. Then you tackle your first realistic eye. Before you know it, you’re attempting subjects you never imagined you’d be able to draw.

Every little achievement gives you something to feel proud of.

Of course, learning something new also means making mistakes. But those mistakes are part of the process, not proof that you’re doing something wrong.

And that’s where self-kindness comes in.

Rather than expecting yourself to get everything right immediately, try celebrating your progress and recognising how much you’ve learnt.

I’ve shared more advice on this in my blog about building confidence as an artist.

4. Creative hobbies give you something that’s just for you

It’s easy for our days to become filled with responsibilities, especially when we’re juggling work, family and everything else life throws at us.

Having a creative hobby gives you something to look forward to that’s entirely your own.

And that matters.

Making time for drawing isn’t about ignoring your responsibilities. It’s about recognising that your interests, enjoyment and wellbeing deserve attention too.

Even 15 or 20 minutes spent doing something creative can give you a little space on a busy day.

You don’t have to finish a drawing or produce anything impressive for that time to be worthwhile.

Sometimes the enjoyment of creating is enough.

5. Creativity can bring people together

Although drawing is often something we enjoy doing quietly on our own, it can also create wonderful opportunities for connection.

Joining an art class, sharing your drawings or learning alongside other artists can introduce you to people who share your interests.

And there’s something really special about being part of a creative community.

You can exchange ideas, encourage each other, celebrate achievements and learn from one another.

I’ve seen just how much confidence people can gain when they’re surrounded by others who understand their creative journey.

Celebrate World Kindness Day by making time for creativity ❤️

World Kindness Day is a lovely reminder that even the smallest acts of kindness can make a difference, and sometimes that kindness starts with ourselves.

If you’d like to make drawing part of your everyday life, you don’t need to make huge changes. Start small! Keep a sketchbook and a few pencils handy, set aside a little time each week and choose something you genuinely enjoy drawing.

Whether you’re rediscovering a childhood hobby or picking up coloured pencils for the very first time, remember that creativity isn’t another task to tick off your to-do list. It’s something to enjoy, just for you.

And if you’re wondering where to start, I’ve got some lovely FREE coloured pencil tutorials and resources to help you pick up your pencils and give it a go!

So, this World Kindness Day, why not give yourself a little time to do something that makes you happy?

You might be surprised by just how much joy a few coloured pencils can bring.