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Have you ever had that feeling of going through the motions, but inside, it feels like someone switched o the ‘joy’ button? I’ve felt like that at numerous points in my life – suddenly, without warning, I’m fed-up, flat and uninspired. I’ve tried to analyse why it happens – am I tired? Is it hormones? But I’ve never been able to pinpoint a root cause. However, I did finally stumble upon the antidote which can disperse the Dementor-like fog in an instant and have me excited and inspired again – and that’s what we’re focusing on in our 18-page special this month. I’m talking about creativity. Let me be clear, I don’t mean creating great works of art, but rather engaging with some kind of creative inspiration – anything from listening to loud music in the dark until your teeth rattle, to creating a photographic exhibition on your fridge by taking snaps of funny-looking dogs on your smartphone. I’m a terrible cook, but I’ve discovered something therapeutic in icing a cake, even if it is weirdly slimy and the frosting is wonky. What I now know is that if I can find a way – any way – to be creative, I quickly make the leap from disinterested observer to being reconnected, alive and hot with ideas and energy. Creativity has become my magical superpower, with which I can transform my world from black and white to colour at will. Writer and coach Orlando Murrin explains in his wonderful opening feature for this month’s Dossier on page 28 how engaging with creativity transformed his life – and how it can transform yours, too. If baking cakes sounds too mundane, how about flying through the air with the greatest of ease? Read Brigid Schulte’s provoking piece on page 48, which explores the power of play. You don’t have to commit to a trapeze-flying playdate like Brigid, but please join our discussion on why we feel so guilty about taking time out to enjoy ourselves.