At The Spark File, we believe that in order to reach full creative self-expression, all creative projects flow through what we call The Spark Cycle of Creativity.

Further, we believe that learning to flow freely and easily through this cycle leads to a more satisfying and gratifying life of creative self-expression.

When navigating The Spark Cycle, 'Generating Sparks, 'Fanning the Flames' and 'Shining the Light' are equally essential.

Here's a description of each phase of the Creative Cycle:

• The Generating Sparks phase of the cycle is all about cultivating ideas. In this phase, we are keeping our eyes open as we move through the world, remaining curious and actively seeking and noticing things that light us up. These sparks you collect may turn out to be your next great idea, or a solution to a creative question you've been contemplating, or even a bit of dialogue in your next piece.
• The Fanning the Flames phase is all about creation (i.e. getting it done)! This is where the real making occurs. Fanning the Flames is how you get from point A to B to Y to Z, making something where there was nothing before. This phase requires a commitment (and continual re-commitment) to your goal. Tenacity and resilience will be required on the road to completion.
• The Shining the Light phase is all about sharing your work and your ideas with the world. This phase is about how you communicate who you are as a creative so that you can generate excitement about your work. Keep in mind you are empowered to decide when and IF you want to share your work, that is up to you. Our goal is that every person acts from choice rather than from fear.

Are there particular phases in the creative process where you tend to soar? Is there a part of The Spark Cycle where you typically get hung up?

Whatever you are experiencing in relation to The Spark Cycle, you are not alone.

We are confident that as you spend more time in The Spark File, strengthen your creative practice, and become more aware of these phases, you WILL get stronger in each area. By finding more flow in your creative process, your creative life will become more rich, more satisfying and more sustainable!