Reconnecting with Your Creativity: The Power of Passion Projects
I have always had a strong relationship with music. Since my teenage years it’s helped me feel grounded, relaxed, connected, and alive. I’ve been DJing since the early '90s, and my love for records runs deep. in 2016 I started a small independent record label, pressing short runs of breakbeat-driven music. DJ'ing and producing music is a great way of expressing myself, being in the moment and creating something for other people to enjoy. The record label was all about pushing good music for people to enjoy on a physical format. It became a great way of connecting with like-minded people who loved that style of music.
And that, in essence, is what passion projects are all about.
Whether it’s music, creating, writing, or imagining, having something you pour yourself into - something that exists outside of your job or obligations - can be incredibly healing. Passion projects allow us to express ourselves, to be present, and to enjoy the act of creating without pressure.
But for many people, especially creatives, there are real barriers to this kind of expression.
You might struggle with self-doubt, comparison, or procrastination. You might find it hard to set boundaries, particularly around social media or digital distractions, that keep you stuck in cycles of consuming and comparing, rather than creating. The inner critic can be loud, especially when you care deeply about what you’re making.
In my work as a therapist, I often support musicians, DJs, and other creatives who are battling these exact challenges. Together, we explore what’s getting in the way - those persistent thoughts, fears, or habits - and work towards creating space for joy and authenticity again. That might mean reframing negative beliefs, building healthier routines, or simply rediscovering the freedom to play.
I’ve shared warm, constructive feedback on clients’ music in session when it’s been welcomed — because sometimes just having someone listen, without judgment, can reignite your creative flame.
Music, like all art, can also be a powerful antidote to loneliness. It connects people, gives you a sense of belonging, and opens up doors - not just to potential collaborations or new releases, but to new friendships, ideas, and perspectives. I've seen first hand how passion projects can transform lives, simply by giving people a space to be themselves.
Creating and running a record label was a great life experience for me, from collaborating with logo and artwork designers and artists to managing the pressing process. Some artists were based outside of the UK and it felt very special collaborating with people from different backgrounds and cultures. But ultimately the happiest part was seeing customers post pictures of the records after receiving them or posting DJ sets whether they’d played our releases. This was the moment I could see that we’d created a piece of art that could be enjoyed by people all over the world – from Germany to Spain, New Zealand to the USA.
It's easy to let life pass by in a blur of busyness and obligation. But taking time for what lights you up, even if it’s just for you, can be life-changing. Passion projects don’t have to be perfect or polished. They just have to be yours.
“Life moves pretty fast. If you don't stop and look around once in a while, you could miss it.”
— Ferris Bueller
If you’re feeling stuck creatively, or struggling to find your voice again, I’d love to help. Together we can work on removing the barriers and making space for the part of you that wants to create, connect, and come alive.
If you are are local to the Birmingham area, Listening Sessions are monthly showcase events where music producers gather to listen to productions at venues across the city. For over 10 years, the events have been a hub for sharing latest beats, getting feedback, and are a great way to connect with fellow music makers and music lovers.
