Let’s be honest—society has trained us to think productivity means standing tall, rushing around, ticking off to-do lists like a whirlwind. But what happens when life forces you to hit pause and stay in bed? Some might say productivity screeches to a halt. I say it’s time to throw those assumptions out the window—because bed doesn’t mean the end of creativity. If anything, it’s an invitation to rethink and reimagine what being creative and useful looks like.
Adaptation is key. Take leatherworking, for example. When I need to use my mallet, I place a rounded chunk of marble on my bed to protect the mattress—it’s unconventional, sure, but it works. Even peeling veggies has made its way into my “bedside productivity” repertoire on days when I can’t make it to the kitchen. Eating is non-negotiable, after all, and I’ve learned there’s no shame in getting the job done your way.
When it comes to creative pursuits, the possibilities are vast—if you think outside the box. My laptop is my lifeline to the world, allowing me to dive into writing novels that span romance, fantasy, adventure, horror, and everything in between. I’ve even started exploring young adult fiction for a bit of lighthearted fun. From journal-style entries to poetry that pours out in moments of heightened emotion, my writing knows no bounds. And let’s not forget the joy of tackling real-world issues through nonfiction pieces that demand truth and accuracy—I’m a stickler for fact-checking when it comes to the cracks in the system that need addressing.
On tough days, when writing feels like too much, my creativity takes other forms. Pencils, paintbrushes, crochet hooks, cross-stitching, beading, leatherwork—you name it. These hands-on activities remind me that creation doesn’t need to follow traditional expectations. From the comfort of my bed, they become my rebellion against the idea that physical ability equals productivity. The trick is overcoming the mental hurdle society’s trained us with: the belief that rest means idleness. It doesn’t.
Even on low-energy days, small bursts of creativity—micro-creativity, if you will—can bring immense satisfaction. Whether it’s a quick doodle, jotting down ideas for the next novel, or brainstorming what to do with leftover scraps of crafting materials, these mini-moments keep the spark alive. I’m working on this approach, too—scaling back marathon sessions that keep me glued to the screen for hours (or days) without pause. It’s an adjustment, but one worth making for both my eyes and my mind.
And let’s not forget the importance of coffee! Freshly ground, single-batch roasts brewed on my bedside Keurig aren’t just a luxury—they’re essential to calming the chaos of my ADHD and allowing my detail-oriented brain to shine. Coffee and creativity? The ultimate power duo.
At the heart of it all is this: being stuck in bed doesn’t mean losing your sense of purpose. It means finding new ways to connect, create, and contribute—even if it’s only to a few people. Writing has helped me share my story—the struggles, the victories, and the darkest moments—to let others know they’re not alone. If I can help just one person feel less isolated, it’s worth it.
So, whether it’s peeling veggies, typing away at a novel, or rethinking how to use tools from the comfort of your mattress, remember this: creativity isn’t tied to physical movement. It’s about thinking differently, working smartly, and embracing the unconventional. From your bed, you can still change your world—and maybe someone else’s too.
Though for some of the messier projects I keep a blanket nearby to work on so I am not sleeping on beads or a carrot peel.
What are some things you can do in bed with a bit of thinking and creativity that are not expected thing?
Who am I? 
I would love to hear from you!