Practice Makes Permanent: The Power of Consistent Creativity

I remember a lesson from my drumline days that has stuck with me ever since. My instructor would always say, “Practice makes permanent.” It wasn't just a catchy phrase; it was a reminder about the importance of how we practiced. He explained that if we practiced incorrectly — whether it was holding the stick the wrong way, playing off-beat, or neglecting technique — that wrong way of doing things would become ingrained, making it harder to correct later on. The principle was simple: practicing intentionally with focus and the right techniques would help us improve and build lasting habits.

As I look at this principle today, I realize it applies just as much to creativity as it did to drumming. In fact, I think this phrase is even more relevant when we’re talking about creative work.

The Habits We Build Through Creativity

In the world of creativity, “practice” often doesn’t look like traditional practice. It isn’t always about repetition in a formal sense, but more about the act of showing up — consistently. Whether you’re a writer, an artist, a designer, or a creator of any kind, the process of practicing creativity is one of trial, error, exploration, and growth. The more we show up and engage with our craft, the more our creative habits and skills evolve. But here's the catch: those habits are shaped by our approach to the creative process. If we approach our work with a mindset that stifles exploration or leaves us trapped in perfectionism, we risk embedding limiting patterns in our work. And if we practice creativity in a way that allows us to freely explore, make mistakes, and grow, we start building the kinds of habits that allow creativity to flow.

Just like my drumline instructor warned, if we practice the “wrong” way — if we get too caught up in rules, self-doubt, or comparison — we can form habits that hold us back. It’s easy to find ourselves stuck in a creative rut, producing work that doesn’t feel authentic or doesn’t have the spark we’re looking for. But that’s okay. Creativity is a process of constant learning and evolving. The important thing is to keep practicing, to keep creating, and to keep showing up, even when the path forward doesn’t feel clear.

Creativity Is Not About "Being Right"

Here’s the thing: creativity is not about finding a “correct” way to do it. There’s no one-size-fits-all formula for creativity. It’s about self-expression, perspective, and the freedom to explore. It’s about making mistakes and learning from them. And maybe most importantly, it’s about developing the courage to try things that feel imperfect, unfinished, or even a little bit "wrong."

When we give ourselves permission to create without worrying about doing it perfectly, we open the door to more authentic, more meaningful work. The “wrong” way of doing something often leads to discoveries, fresh ideas, and innovative solutions we might never have found if we were too focused on getting it right the first time. This is the true beauty of creativity: it’s a journey, not a destination. And just like with any other skill, it’s the consistent practice — the willingness to keep showing up — that builds the kind of creative muscle that enables us to grow.

The Process Is Where Growth Happens

If you’re feeling stuck or frustrated with your creative process, remember this: the real magic happens in the process itself. It’s in the act of doing, of experimenting, and of pushing past the boundaries of what you know. Creativity doesn’t always result in a masterpiece every time, and that’s okay. It’s not about perfection; it’s about progression. And that progression is built on the foundation of practice.

So, just like in drumming, where I had to consistently practice to make permanent habits of technique and rhythm, we can use the same principle in our creative endeavors. Every sketch, every word, every idea you explore is shaping your creative habits and expanding your ability. And over time, you’ll look back and see that those small, seemingly imperfect moments of practice have led to a style, a voice, or a perspective that is uniquely yours.

Consistency Over Perfection

Remember, creativity doesn’t thrive in a vacuum of perfection. It thrives in an environment of consistency, exploration, and a willingness to keep learning. So, the next time you sit down to create — whether it’s writing, drawing, designing, or something else — don’t worry about doing it "right." Focus instead on practicing the habit of creation itself. Because practice, when done with purpose and freedom, makes permanent — and that’s when real creative growth begins.