A midlife crisis used to bring to mind impulse purchases meant to mask the despair of existential questioning, but more people are turning toward creative endeavors to help overcome these issues, according to The New York Times.
Classes and seminars promoting creativity for people in their 40s and 50s are thriving, and many Americans are taking on do-it-yourself and artistic projects to help combat anxiety, depression or flagging careers.
"People see creativity as the solution to the midlife crisis," said Julia Cameron, author of The Artist’s Way: A Spiritual Path to Creativity, according to The New York Times. "People find themselves asking, 'Is this all there is?' And the answer is, 'No. There has to be more.'"
Bill Burnett, executive director of the design program at Palo Alto, Calif.-based Stanford University and author of Designing Your Life, said creativity reminds people of their talents in moments when their professional life may be challenging or unfulfilling.
"Many remember something about themselves when they were feeling creative," said Mr. Burnett, according to The New York Times. "And it feels good."