Let Creativity Lift You: Finding Inspiration Through Focus Words

Sometimes, creativity is just waiting for the right spark to lift it off the ground, like a balloon catching a breeze. That’s exactly the magic I wanted to capture when I created my recent art journal page—a project inspired by the focus words I featured in my blog post, “20 Inspiring Focus Words to Elevate Your Creative Journey.”

The idea began with a question: What if words had the power to lift us, much like the balloons in “Mary Poppins Returns” (2018, © Disney)? In the film, the whimsical Balloon Lady (played by Angela Lansbury) invites people to choose a balloon, but not just any balloon—she says, “Perhaps it’s the right balloon that chooses you” (© Disney). This line resonates deeply with the creative process. Sometimes, it’s not about forcing inspiration; it’s about letting the right ideas—or the right words—find us.

Words That Lift Your Spirit

To bring this concept to life, I used a circle punch to cut out the round “flair” elements in my Focus Words Print and Cut pack, and arranged them on my art journal page as if they were balloons. Each word—Joy, Inspire, Serenity, Balance, Create, etc. —carries a spark of possibility. The balloon stems connect them, symbolizing the way these words can anchor and uplift our creative spirits.

The Balloon Lady’s words kept echoing in my mind as I worked: “Perhaps it’s the right balloon that chooses you.” In creativity, as in life, we don’t always know what will ignite our next idea or give us the lift we need. Sometimes it’s a single word—a gentle reminder to simplify, a nudge to explore, or a call to believe. These words can act as anchors when we’re feeling stuck or overwhelmed, reminding us of the path we want to take.

The colors and playful textures of the page were intentionally designed to capture a sense of joy and wonder. Much like the scene in Mary Poppins Returns, where balloons carry people into the sky, the focus words on this page are a reminder of the infinite possibilities within each of us. All it takes is choosing (or being chosen by) the right inspiration.

How You Can Let Creativity Lift You

This project isn’t a masterpiece.  It’s just a piece of art representing a few thoughts in my head. But it’ also an invitation. What focus words speak to you? What would your “balloons” look like? Maybe they’re words you want to carry into the new year, or phrases that keep you motivated during tough times. Whether you’re journaling, scrapbooking, or simply reflecting, these words can ground your intentions while also lifting your creative spirit.

Here’s how you can try this for yourself:

1. Choose your focus words. Let your heart guide you. Which words feel meaningful, inspiring, or joyful right now?
2. Create your “balloons”. Whether you use choose to use a more literal interpretation as I did, or something else that speaks to you, and whether you choose to create in Photoshop or ina journal, let these words take shape on your page.
3. Connect and arrange. Think about how these words support and inspire one another, and arrange them in a way that feels uplifting to you.
4. Embrace the process. As the Balloon Lady reminds us, “Perhaps it’s the right balloon that chooses you.” Trust your instincts and let your creativity flow.

Let the Magic Continue

 Just like the balloons in Mary Poppins Returns, focus words can lift us up, guiding us toward joy, balance, and new adventures. This art journal page is my way of sharing that magic with you—and I hope it inspires you to create something that brings you joy and possibility.

So, what focus words will lift you today? Maybe it’s time to let the right one choose you. And if you play along and feel comfortable doing so, I’d love for you to post a picture of your creation in my Oscraps Gallery!

Disclaimer: Mary Poppins Returns is a trademark of The Walt Disney Company. This post is for educational and commentary purposes only and is not affiliated with or endorsed by Disney.