Sometimes life throws you into a rut. The kind where your mind starts circling the same thoughts repeatedly, and you feel stuck. This year’s latest season of Professor T unexpectedly hit me. The brilliant but often socially awkward criminology professor plays the drums in the show, not to become a rock star, but because his therapist suggested it as a form of therapy. It’s not about the notes; it’s about the rhythm, the release, and the mental reset.
That storyline resonated with me. Last July, when my uncle Knolan Benfield passed away, I found myself in a similar place of needing a healthy outlet. Uncle Knolan had been a big part of my life, and when he died, I inherited his trumpet. Picking it up again brought back memories of when I used to play regularly. I also bought a flugelhorn because of the warm, mellow tone it calls to me.
Now, I keep the horn within arm’s reach. If I’ve been working on the computer for hours, I’ll take a short break and play. Just a few minutes of music can reset my mind. Making sound—focusing on breathing, embouchure, and melody—pulls me out of work mode and grounds me in something tangible and joyful.
But music wasn’t my only therapy. Since losing my uncle, I’ve also gotten serious about the gym. In 2025 alone, I’ve done 117 thirty-minute workouts so far. It’s not about chasing a number on the scale but building resilience. Exercise and music together have helped me stay optimistic, so that no matter what comes, I’m looking for ways to move forward rather than letting stress take over.
Tips for Staying Positive as a Creative (Even When Life Gets Stressful)
Whether you’re a musician, photographer, writer, or artist, staying emotionally steady is critical. Here are a few practices that have worked for me:
- Find a creative outlet just for you.
Don’t worry about making it perfect or sharing it online. Play an instrument, paint, dance—whatever pulls you into a different mental space. - Move your body daily.
Exercise doesn’t have to be extreme. Even a 30-minute walk or light workout can reduce stress and boost mood. - Break up your workday.
Step away from screens and do something physical or creative to reset your brain before returning to the grind. - Practice gratitude daily.
Even on tough days, note at least one thing you’re thankful for. It helps shift your mindset toward the positive. - Surround yourself with encouraging voices.
Spend time with people who help you see solutions, not just problems. - Accept that stress will come, but it doesn’t have to control you.
Have a “go-to” activity (music, exercise, journaling) that helps you process and release tension. - Invest in your passions, even when life is busy.
If something brings you joy, make room for it. It’s not indulgence—it’s maintenance for your mental health.
The trumpet, flugelhorn, and a good gym session have become tools, not just hobbies. They remind me that I can choose rhythm, movement, and optimism even when life is stressful.