Last week we talked about the independent pursuit of creative endeavors. Before you can get there, though, you have to make something — and that usually means dealing with some level of creativity.
For many, creativity is an ominous thing, the fickle Muse that may or may not show up and shower you with inspiration. We’re here to tell you that the Muse is BS and that creativity, like anything, can be attained by simply working hard. Some highlights from this week’s show:
- Tips for people who doubt they have creative abilities.
- Rethinking what creativity is — The Creative Physicist and Programmer.
- The power of breaks from creative pursuits.
- How to take breaks from the things that distract you from finding time to create.
- Why we’re not so enamored with those labeling themselves “Creatives.” (Hint: actions speak louder than…well, you know…)
- How to deal with those wanting to exploit your creativity. (What we really mean: those who want to exploit your willingness to actually do the work!)
- Some of our creative heroes. (Including a bit about Shawn getting email from his hero.)
It’s our hope that anyone doubting they have some creative ability in themselves will see that’s not the case by this episode’s end. As long as you’re willing to work hard, it’s amazing what’s possible.
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Tiaras for FTW! 🙂
Princess Chris: Does your new business friend offer her product online? I might need what she sells. 🙂 BTW the cello is my favorite musical instrument.
Princess Shawn: I also find that taking occasional breaks from writing – in my case, typically several days at a time – helps my writing. When I take a break to create something other than writing, I find my perspective opens up. I know this goes against the common writing advice of “write everyday forever.”
Bonus fiction writing creativity tip: When you get stuck in writing a story, ask someone for an opinion. It doesn’t even have to be someone who self-identifies as “creative.” I’ve gotten some of my best storyline breakthrough ideas from my husband who has no interest in fiction. I spend less than a minute describing my WIP, he mulls it over a few seconds, and often comes up with the perfect solution. Simply amazing.
CM — I used to freak out when I hit a wall. Then, one day, I decided to take a nap instead. The nap worked. Since then, breaks have been more common, and I’ve gotten more done. Who would have thought? 😉
CMS: A sinus infection has filled my head and driven out all memory: which business friend do I mention in the podcast? Normally I’m more with it, but this weekend has come and gone in flashes. Apparently, all the cool people dig cellos! 🙂
I’ve become much better about asking people for feedback when writing. I normally prefer finishing a first draft of a novel and polishing it before showing people, but the latest work…I’ve shared bits with a friend and it’s helped. It’s good advice!
Next time Shawn comes over, we will have to take tiara photos! I’m all hopped up on cold medicine, but I’ll stick to it and totally commit Shawn to the photo.
Can you start being creative when you’re older? If you’re interested, you should check out “Guitar Zero: The Science of Becoming Musical at Any Age” by Gary Marcus. He decided to learn guitar and become “musical” when he turned 40. He’s a cognitive scientist and describes his journey as well as the science behind learning new creative skills when you’re older.