Art & Creativity
Think like an Artist: The path to unlocking your creativity
We’re all creative even though we think we aren’t. So why not tap into it more often?
I have spoken to quite a few people — via mentoring or social media — and they all keep asking me how to be creative. “Your profession and hobby are creative; how do you manage this? How are you so creative? I can never do anything.” And most of the time, I don’t know what to say.
This leads me to think —
Aren’t we all creative in some way?
Creativity is not reserved for a few gifted individuals — it is a universal human capability, residing within each of us like a dormant seed waiting to be nourished. I believe we all have that innate potential to be creative and are looking for an opportunity to tap into it.
Understanding Creativity
Creativity often seems like a magical force, but psychologists define it as the capacity to generate ideas, solutions, or products that are both novel and valuable. It’s not only about the arts; creativity is equally relevant in science, business, cooking, parenting, and virtually any realm of life. It is everywhere.
Contrary to popular belief, creativity isn’t about sudden lightning bolts of inspiration but rather the result of curiosity, persistence, and a willingness to take risks. According to psychologist Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi’s Flow theory, the state of optimal creativity — referred to as “flow” — occurs when we engage in tasks that challenge us just enough to hold our interest but are not so complex that they cause anxiety.
Unlocking Your Inner Artist
How can you go ahead and unlock your creative potential? Let’s look at some ideas you can try. Even though I am creative by nature, I embrace these pointers occasionally so that I can keep my creativity quota right up to the brim.
- Foster curiosity — Creativity begins with curiosity. Stay open-minded, question the status quo, and nurture a deep desire to explore the world around you. This sense of wonder is your first step towards creative thinking.
- Practice mindfulness — Creativity thrives when we’re fully present. Practising mindfulness allows you to tap into your subconscious mind, where many creative ideas originate. Mindfulness allows us to observe our thoughts without judgment and make connections we might overlook.
- Embrace challenges — Remember, the heart of creativity is problem-solving. Don’t shy away from challenges; instead, view them as opportunities for creative growth.
- Create room for mistakes — An essential aspect of creativity is the willingness to take risks and make mistakes. Remember, every mistake is an opportunity to learn and grow. As Thomas Edison famously said, “I have not failed. I’ve just found 10,000 ways that won’t work.”
- Surround yourself with diversity — Exposure to different cultures, ideas, and perspectives can spark creative thinking. This can happen through travel, books, music, or conversations with people from different walks of life.
- Cultivate a creative routine — Regularly setting aside time for creative pursuits can go a long way towards honing your creativity. This routine creates a safe space for your mind to wander and explore new ideas.
- Rest and recharge — Don’t underestimate the importance of downtime. Rest, sleep, and moments of relaxation can trigger insights and “aha” moments. Have you ever wondered why some of your best ideas come to you in the shower?
But why should I embrace creativity?
In our modern, fast-paced world, where to-do lists never seem to end, and productivity is often treated as the holy grail of achievement, it’s easy to sideline creativity. We’re frequently urged to stay focused, meet deadlines, and optimize our routines. But it’s essential to remember that creativity is not a luxury that can be easily dismissed. It’s not an indulgence for the leisurely or an exclusive gift of the few who are ‘naturally talented.’ Creativity is, in fact, an integral part of our well-being, personal growth, and human essence.
Creativity fuels self-expression, enabling us to articulate our deepest feelings, thoughts, and visions uniquely and personally. It transcends the constraints of language and ordinary conversation, often touching the unsaid and the inexplicable within us. Whether through a melody, a painting, a story, or an innovative solution to a problem, our creative expressions are reflections of our unique selves.
Moreover, creativity is our gateway to viewing the world from different perspectives. It encourages us to step out of our comfort zones, question the status quo, and look at old things in new ways. It fosters empathy, allowing us to step into others’ shoes, imagine different scenarios, and explore alternative solutions. Through this broadened lens, we can genuinely appreciate and contribute meaningfully to the rich tapestry of human experience.
I want to emphasize: you are not “uncreative.” It’s a common misconception that some of us are born creative while others aren’t. This couldn’t be further from the truth. You may not have discovered your unique creative outlet yet, or perhaps you haven’t given your innate creativity the space, time, and nurturing it requires to blossom.
The field of psychology assures us that creativity isn’t an elusive trait. It’s within everyone’s reach. It’s like a muscle — something everyone possesses and can strengthen with regular practice and the right approach. So, shake off any self-doubt or inhibitions you may have. Let go of self-limiting beliefs that might be holding you back.
So …
Take a deep, refreshing breath, and permit yourself to embark on the exciting journey of creative exploration. Don’t worry about judgments or outcomes; instead, focus on the process, the joy of creation itself. Remember, every step on this creative journey is towards discovering more about yourself and the world around you.
After all, the world doesn’t just want your unique creativity — it needs it. Every piece of art, every melody, and every novel idea adds a touch of colour, a note of harmony, and a dash of innovation to our collective human experience. Our shared creativity enriches our world, paving the way for a more vibrant, understanding, and imaginative future.
Embrace your creative potential and see where it leads you. You might surprise yourself.
Happy creating!
