Creativity. It’s a hat that sits awkwardly on many heads. So many of us, although we might like the idea of being creative, don’t believe we actually are. This negative mindset is the result of years of exposure to popular thinking, which says that creativity is synonymous with being artistically gifted and able to play a musical instrument, paint or draw.
Creativity is, however, so much more intricate and complex than this. Everyone’s creativity or creative process is different – you have to find what works for you, instead of focusing on what we’ve been told creativity looks like.
“There is no such thing as creative and non-creative people. There are only people who use their creativity and people who don’t.”
– Brené Brown
Many of us actually tap into our creativity every day and don’t even realise it. For some, the “typically creative” activities are how we express our creativity – writing, painting, photography….But others use their creativity in different ways – solving problems, making blends of tea, public speaking etc. One of the best things about true creativity is that it’s not about beauty in the traditional sense of the word. It encompasses any creative idea, whether it comes from an artist or a scientist.
“Ultimate beauty is found in truth and order.”
– Immanual Kant
Creating – whatever that means for everyone individually – gives us a sense of meaning and fulfillment, yet so few of us actually even acknowledge it within ourselves. So much of our time is spent competing with others in an effort to stand out, yet we also want so badly to fit in! Somewhere along the way we’ve lost sight of how important it is to be unique, authentic and creative. Creativity makes us happy, calms us down and inspires us.
Some people will always be better at harnessing their creativity than others, but we can all be creative in some way. By opening your mind and becoming more innovative in your thinking, you can experience the true beauty of living a meaningful, connected and creative life.