Kathleen began to notice a disturbing trend. All the books she was reading featured male heroes. As she began to study childhood classics by Dr. Seuss, she noticed the only female characters were negative ones – lazy mothers, gossipy women, or colorless sisters who had no dialog.

I'm always on the look out for ingenious ideas to help release creativity. One trend I've noticed lately involves groups of people getting together at a local bar, restaurant or designated studio to explore a specific creative medium. There is one in Indianapolis called Wine & Canvas.

Most of you know me as a believer that everyone is "creative" in one way or another; however, be that as it may, there are some things active "creatives" do on a regular basis that set them apart. I'm talking about those who want to change the world, that is. These six habits cause those moments of inspiration that drive us to actually create without reserve and without worry, to bring beauty to our world.

Did you ever wonder why bad things happen to good people? And, do you always blame either God or the devil for those misfortunes? How about considering the alternative? Maybe we create our own drama and unserving dilemmas. I mean, come on, to blame the devil for breaking my toe, when I was foolishly walking through a dark room in the middle of the night to sneak some chocolate cake. Really?

You might think there are better things a life coach should be doing then writing about why coaching doesn't work for the majority of those who try it. Well, I had an epiphany, really...a life-changing one. That is, it will change my life as well as yours, if you dare to pay attention and follow through with my intuition on the subject. So, here I go out on that really thin, shaky limb...

A quick tip on Creativity from John Maxwell. One of my favorite motivational teachers...

Creating the life you desire is in itself a true miracle. Understand, I don't say this lightly. It's not that obtaining real, lasting happiness is as sparsely experienced as we think miracles are these days. On the contrary, it's time to start thinking about what miracles really are and how often we dismiss the possibility of seeing them in our own lives.

There are so many cliches flying around where creativity and mental ability are concerned. For example: "Practice makes perfect," or "If you don't use it, you'll lose it," or "Just do it," or "Invention is 1% inspiration and 99% perspiration." Well, though all of these sayings have there place and a sense of truth all their own, sometimes we just need someone to tell us what to do to makes something better. I'm going to share some tips that I use to keep my mind and spirit sharp, so when I want to be creative, I am on point.

I heard a saying once that really resonated with my personal experience as a creative person, it says: "If you want to master something, teach it." There are many reasons why this profound truth adds value to your life. The first being that when you focus on the integral parts of any creative endeavor, as you do when you show someone how to do something, you are building a stronger foundation for yourself.

I was turned onto this AMAZING video from a friend on Facebook. I couldn't believe what I watched was real...but it is! This is a prime example of what can happen when we think outside the box and get out of our ordinary minds.

(1) Fine: Women use this word to end an argument when they are right and you need to shut up. (2) Five Minutes: If she is getting dressed, this means a half an hour. Five minutes is only five minutes if you have just been given five more minutes to watch the game before helping around the house. (3) Nothing: This is the calm before the storm. This means something, and you should be on your toes. Arguments that begin with nothing usually end in fine.

Wow, so I just got home from a "headache holiday" (a week stay in the hospital.) And, go figure I can't get a wink of sleep to save my life. I'm supposed to be resting, and, well, it' s like 4 A.M. and I'm still tying desperately to fall asleep. I'm not sure what triggered my inability to snooze...

In my own pursuit of creative goals, I've realized (sometimes the hard way) that things don't always go the way you hope them to. However, it isn't necessary to understand the "whys" and "hows" of every vision or effort before stepping into a process of getting them done. I do believe that focus and determination rule in the creative arena, though. You have to keep going toward your dreams...no matter what gets in your way. This week I'm being greatly challenged in my physical body to even get anything typed out or on paper. But, you know what? I'm doing it anyway. Because I love what I do and I can't hold in my thoughts because my body doesn't want to cooperate.

Have you ever purposely stood outside in a summer downpour, let the warm rain trickle down your face and cleanse your soul? It feels good, doesn’t it? Your inner-child may come to the forefront. With a childlike heart, you become a part of something that’s out of your control and it’s OK…profound simplicity.

Blogging can be a lonely way to spend your time. On the other hand, it can be rewarding and bring lots of new acquaintances (even friends) your way. I've been doing this blogging thing for well over two years now and have noticed something: Blog life is very short for some. I often catch myself thinking, where did that blog go or I wonder what made her stop writing. And, you know what, I really miss some of the blogs that are nowhere to be found.