A common misconception about creativity is that it's purely cosmetic. Not even the icing on the cake, it's just the sprinkles that add a little pizzazz.

While it's true some creativity is primarily concerned with aesthetics, I believe we grossly underestimate the impact that beauty has on the state of our soul. I don't think many of us would want to live in a world devoid of beauty.

But without belittling beauty, I think it's safe to say that most creative endeavors aspire to make more than just an aesthetic mark on the world.

There is, of course, a long tradition of artists raising awareness of, and sparking a response to, human suffering.

I'm always inspired by the ways in which creativity can be harnessed to help a worthy cause. During the lockdown I loved Save the Children's Save with Stories campaign in which celebrities like Benedict Cumberbatch and Emilia Clarke recorded themselves reading children's books. (As an aside, the next time you're feeling stressed I invite you to watch one of these videos and reset your nervous system in a matter of minutes.)

At the moment, the world is still reeling from the devastating earthquake that hit Turkey and Syria just over a week ago, killing 36,000 and making more than a million people homeless.

So this week I wanted to share three ways you can support the disaster relief efforts while also getting your creativity on:

1. 'Book' a writerly conversation: The Book Auction for Turkiye and Syria includes so much more than just signed books. Hundreds of writers, agents and editors are donating their time and have already raised almost $60,000. Last year I developed a children's book idea* but I haven't done anything with it. So I bid for a zoom call with a picture book agent to get some feedback. There's only a few more days left to bid, so if it speaks to you, you'll want to move quickly!

2. Buy art: Open Space is organizing the sale of many donated works of contemporary art, including this gorgeous painting:

3. Give a creative gift: Over 200 celebrities have joined ChooseLove and Cameo to offer short personalized video messages to raise money. Maybe your niece would love a birthday message from Cinderella or your Aunt who adores Downton Abbey would appreciate a get well message from Lady Edith.

So there you have it. Three ways creativity can help now. But even after the regions in Turkey and Syria have been rebuilt, there will continue to be no shortage of worthy causes.

What's a cause that's close to your heart? What's one way you might contribute your creative talents to supporting that cause?

* If you're interested in learning about writing children's books the London Writer's Salon periodically runs workshops. The one I attended on writing picture books was incredibly helpful and included tailored feedback. I also enjoyed this comprehensive masterclass with Julia Donaldson.