Why I (Mostly) Quit Coffee – And How It’s Helped My Creativity

If you know me, you know I’ve always loved my morning coffee. That first sip, the warmth in my hands—it was a ritual as much as a source of energy. But over the past year, I started noticing how it was making me feel: jittery, anxious, and oddly… more tired. The energy boost was short-lived, and the crash afterward hit hard. My sleep suffered, even if I only had one cup in the morning.

I didn’t want to give it up completely—it’s part of my routine, and I genuinely enjoy the taste. So instead of quitting entirely, I made some changes. I switched to decaf and only occasionally add a little bit of regular coffee. When I do, I time it carefully around meals and vitamins to make sure my body absorbs everything properly. No more caffeine blocking my iron or making my supplements less effective.

And I’ve become more intentional about how I drink it. Now, I only pair my coffee with my homemade soy milk—just soybeans, water, and a little salt. It’s simple, nourishing, and free of the fillers or gums you find in store-bought alternatives.

how cute is this little custom cup I got on etsy?

How It’s Helped My Creativity

Since cutting back, I’ve noticed a difference in how I show up creatively. Without the sharp spikes and crashes of caffeine, my energy feels steadier. I no longer rely on coffee to “get in the zone” or push through creative blocks. Instead, I trust my natural rhythm more, giving myself space to ease into my painting sessions or sketching time without that artificial kickstart.

I’ve also become more attuned to when I actually need rest versus when I just need a boost. Before, I’d reach for another coffee to keep going. Now, I’m more likely to step away, take a short walk, or simply let myself pause. It’s made my creative practice feel less forced and more intuitive.

A Slower, More Mindful Ritual

I’m not anti-coffee, and I still love the ritual of making it. But switching to mostly decaf, being mindful about timing, and simplifying my ingredients has made the experience more grounding and less about chasing energy. It’s about enjoyment, not dependence.

If you’ve been thinking about cutting back or changing your relationship with coffee, I get it—it’s not easy. But if you’re feeling more anxious than usual or noticing that coffee isn’t giving you the same lift it once did, it might be worth experimenting. You might be surprised by how much more grounded—and creative—you feel without it.

"Coffee Shop on Queen" 24x36" oil & cold wax on canvas