Imagine a baby who just discovered a set of non-toxic paints lying around. What do you think the baby would do?
You guessed it right. She would open up the bottles and paint every conceivable surface within her reach. She wouldn’t worry about the lack of beauty or finesse in her work. Instead, she would revel in the texture of the paint and marvel at the vibrant colors.
Now, imagine yourself in the same situation with a box of paints, a few brushes, and a large sheet of paper.
Many people would freeze in terror, thinking, “I can’t paint. I’ve never been good.” Torrents of limiting thoughts would flood their minds. What happened to the person who was once a fearless baby, unafraid of judgment and simply enjoying the act of creating?
As we grow up, we lose that fearlessness and adopt societal expectations. Children are taught to color within lines and are reprimanded when the colors seep out. They might be laughed at when their drawings don’t conform to expected norms—when a dog has one too many legs or a cow looks like a giraffe. Over time, these experiences solidify into beliefs: “I can’t draw. I’m not artistic,” eventually becoming a resolute statement, “I’m not creative.”
This statement becomes embedded in the subconscious mind, turning into a mindset that limits our potential. But the truth is, creativity never leaves us. It’s always there, waiting to be rediscovered.
Unleashing Creativity: Dispelling the Myth of “I Am Not Creative”
When I encourage clients to tap into the creative side of their brain for problem-solving, they often stubbornly respond, “I can’t. I am not an artist. I am not creative.” This lie, ingrained from years of societal conditioning, has become a stubborn part of their personality that refuses to fade.
However, the truth is that everyone engages in creative thinking daily, often without realizing it. Consider a cook who substitutes an ingredient when the needed vegetable is unavailable, a taxi driver who navigates a new route to avoid traffic, or a busy mother who styles her oily hair in a tasteful bun when pressed for time. These are all creative solutions to everyday problems.
Yet, when faced with a box of colors and a blank sheet of paper, many minds blank out. This aversion isn’t limited to art. We tell ourselves various lies that suppress our creative potential:
- “I can’t write a book. I am not good enough.”
- “I wish I had your dressing sense. I can’t seem to coordinate my clothes.”
- “I wish I could style my house as well as you.”
- “I wish I could paint like you.”
- “I wish I could cook like you.”
- “I wish I was as organized as you.”
These limiting beliefs weren’t present at birth. They developed through our experiences, societal expectations, influences, and the constant feedback we receive. As children, we were naturally fearless and uninhibited in our creativity. Over time, however, we learned to conform to societal norms, and our creativity became stifled.
Recognizing that these beliefs are lies is the first step toward reclaiming our creative power. Creativity isn’t exclusive to artists; it’s a fundamental human trait that we all possess. The key is to embrace it, challenge the lies we’ve been told, and rediscover the joy of creating without fear of judgment.
Next time you face a problem, remind yourself that you’ve been solving problems creatively all along. Whether it’s cooking, navigating, or styling, you have the ability to think creatively. Embrace that mindset and allow yourself to explore and express your creativity in new and exciting ways.
The Tendency to Constantly Compare Ourselves with Others
One of the biggest barriers to exploring our creative side is the relentless comparison with others. This insane need to be better than the rest keeps us from even starting.
We stress ourselves out striving for perfection, forgetting to enjoy the process. We have this preconceived notion of a perfect outcome, and anything short of it feels not worth the effort.
Most famous artists achieved renown by breaking the norms. Van Gogh’s unique style wasn’t appreciated until years after his death. Edouard Manet faced rejection from several galleries despite his innovative work. Picasso’s paintings often leave viewers puzzled, yet his impact on art is undeniable. These artists didn’t achieve greatness by conforming; they embraced their individuality and creativity.
So why don’t we let go of our inhibitions and invoke the child within us? Why don’t we indulge in the unbridled joy of paint flowing onto our canvas? The fear of imperfection and the pressure of comparison can be paralyzing, but they are barriers we must overcome to rediscover our creativity.
Fear of Failure or Judgment
As members of society, we often measure ourselves against a daunting yardstick of expectations. This constant fear of falling short stems from an insatiable desire for perfection.
However, it’s crucial to recognize that failure is an integral part of the learning process. Each mistake is a valuable lesson that propels us forward on our creative journey.
In my own acrylic paintings, layers upon layers conceal numerous mistakes. Yet, I wouldn’t change a thing, as each error has contributed to my growth as an artist.
Consider the journey of JK Rowling, who faced rejection from twelve publishers before Harry Potter enchanted the world. Her story reminds us that setbacks pave the path to success.
Belief That Being Artistic Is a Waste of Time
In today’s fast-paced world, we’re ensnared in the “busyness epidemic.” There’s a pervasive notion that every action must be perceived as productive and contribute to economic advancement. This pressure to constantly perform leaves little room for artistic pursuits, which are often dismissed as frivolous.
Yet, amidst the incessant barrage of social media and entertainment, we’ve lost sight of the value of leisure and creative expression. Remember a time when television was a luxury, and office hours were confined to the workplace? Back then, hobbies fostered creativity, community bonding, and overall well-being.
It’s essential to remind ourselves that artistic pursuits are not frivolities but necessities. They offer a respite from the demands of daily life, promote relaxation, and nurture our mental and emotional well-being. Embrace creativity as a vital component of a balanced and fulfilling life.
Overcoming the “Too Old to Pursue Art” Mindset
The adage “Old dogs cannot learn new tricks” often reappears as a convenient excuse to avoid trying new things. However, this mindset is merely a barrier rooted in self-doubt rather than reality. In truth, age should never be a deterrent to pursuing one’s passions, including art.
Take, for instance, a 72-year-young woman I know who lifts heavier weights than I do at the gym. Her ability to break stereotypes and challenge societal norms is a constant source of inspiration. She epitomizes the idea that it’s never too late to start something new or excel in a different area of life.
“Age is just a number” should be the new mantra for everyone. Embracing this mindset opens up endless possibilities and opportunities for growth, learning, and creativity. Whether you’re picking up a paintbrush for the first time or returning to a long-lost passion, the key is to begin with enthusiasm and an open mind.
In the world of art, your age can bring unique perspectives and depth to your work that younger artists might not yet possess. Your life experiences become a rich tapestry from which to draw inspiration, making your art truly one-of-a-kind. So, shed the outdated belief that you’re too old to start something new, and instead, embrace the journey of lifelong learning and creativity.
Belief That Following Artistic Endeavors Is Self-Indulgent or Frivolous
Contrary to popular belief, cultivating creative hobbies is far from self-indulgent—it’s essential for overall well-being.
Engaging in activities like art, music, or gardening offers numerous health benefits, including improved cognitive skills, enhanced focus, heightened creativity, and strengthened social connections. These pursuits also provide a profound sense of joy and accomplishment.
Artistic expression has been an integral part of human history, enriching cultures and societies for centuries. Depriving oneself or others of the opportunity to explore and nurture their creative talents is a disservice to the inherent beauty and diversity of human expression. Embrace your creative instincts and allow them to flourish—it’s not just acceptable; it’s essential.
Feeling That Ideas Are Not Original
The notion that ideas must be entirely original is a myth debunked by the concept of “Steal Like An Artist.” Every idea is influenced by previous works, and creativity often stems from reinterpretation and innovation. Learning from and being inspired by other artists is not only acceptable but encouraged.
Copying and emulating the work of others is a fundamental part of the creative process, allowing artists to develop their skills and find their unique voice. The key is to acknowledge and honor the sources of inspiration while adding your own perspective and creativity to the mix.
Uniqueness doesn’t happen overnight—it’s the result of consistent practice and exploration. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes or create “messes” along the way. Enjoy the process of experimentation and discovery, knowing that each step contributes to your growth as a creative individual.
Do you consider yourself a creative person?
The truth is, creativity resides within each of us, waiting to be unleashed. By challenging misconceptions and embracing the joy of artistic expression, you can tap into your innate creativity and contribute your unique perspective to the world. So, don’t hold back—let your creativity shine, and inspire others to do the same.
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