#atom

The CALM framework for understanding why creative activities boost energy

Core Idea: Creative activities boost energy through four distinct mechanisms: Competence, Autonomy, Liberty, and Mellowing (CALM).

Key Elements

• Competence:

• Creative activities unlock our sense of competence

• Gaining new skills provides an energy boost

• Particularly effective in creative domains where improvement is visible

• Autonomy:

• Creative pursuits create a sense of ownership over our work

• This ownership feeling is inherently energizing

• Contrasts with directed or constrained work activities

• Liberty:

• Creative activities help us properly disengage from work mode

• Mental separation from professional concerns provides relief

• Difficult to remain in "work mode" when fully focused on a different creative pursuit

• Mellowing:

• Creative activities are relaxed and low-stakes

• The absence of performance pressure allows true relaxation

• Creates psychological safety for experimentation

• Implementation Framework:

• Ensure activities maintain all four CALM elements

• Keep creative pursuits distinct from work

• Focus on process rather than outcomes

• Allow mistakes and experimentation

• Growth should occur at a personal pace

Connections

• Related Concepts: CALM Hobbies (practical application), CALM Projects (structured implementation)
• Broader Context: Energy Management (theoretical framework), Flow State (related psychological state)
• Applications: Stress Reduction Techniques (practical use), Creative Recovery (implementation context)

References

1. Abdaal, A. (2023). Feel Good Productivity. [Book highlights]

#creativity #energy #productivity #psychological-wellbeing

Connections:

Sources:

• From: Abdaal-Feel-good Productivity