The Art of Creating: Closing the Gap and Dancing with Systems

The Art of Creating: Closing the Gap and Dancing with Systems

Creativity is a journey that often begins with frustration. As Ira Glass, the creator and host of This American Life, once said, "For the first couple of years you make stuff, it's just not that good." This can be disheartening for aspiring artists, writers, and creators who have a keen sense of taste but struggle to translate it into their work. The gap between what we envision and what we produce can be discouraging, leading many to give up on their creative pursuits altogether.

Glass emphasizes that this phase is normal and that the key to improvement lies in doing a lot of work. By putting ourselves on a deadline and committing to finishing one project each week, we can gradually close the gap between our taste and the quality of our work. It takes time and perseverance, but the only way to improve is through practice and repetition.

But what does it mean to create? According to Glass, the job isn't to "be creative," but rather to create. It's not about waiting for a stroke of inspiration or attempting to control the outcome. Instead, it's about embracing the process and allowing ourselves to learn and evolve over time. This sentiment is echoed in the concept of "dancing with systems."

In the realm of systems thinking, we are reminded that our world is complex and interconnected. We cannot fully understand or predict it with certainty. However, we can design and redesign systems to work in harmony with our values and aspirations. Instead of imposing our will upon a system, we must listen to what it tells us and collaborate with it to bring forth something better.

To dance with systems effectively, we must expose our mental models to the open air. By inviting others to challenge our assumptions and collect as many possible explanations or hypotheses, we can gain a broader perspective. This practice of learning in public not only helps us grow but also fosters a sense of humility and open-mindedness.

Flexibility is crucial when dealing with complex systems. We must be willing to redraw boundaries and adapt to new circumstances. As Buckminster Fuller once said, "In a world of complex systems, it is not appropriate to charge forward with rigid, undeviating directives." Instead, we should take small steps, constantly monitor our progress, and be willing to change course based on new information.

Another important aspect of dancing with systems is recognizing the intrinsic responsibility we have. We must be mindful of the consequences of our actions and ensure that our decisions align with our values. If something is morally degrading or ecologically impoverishing, we must speak up and take action. By paying attention to the triggering events that shape a system's behavior, we can make informed choices that lead to positive outcomes.

Furthermore, we must defy the confines of disciplines and embrace the interconnected nature of the world. No part of the human race or the global ecosystem exists in isolation. By following a system wherever it leads, we can gain a more holistic understanding of the world and make more informed decisions.

In the midst of chaos and uncertainty, it's essential to remember that the universe is messy and nonlinear. It self-organizes, evolves, and creates diversity. While it may be tempting to dwell on the bad news, we must not weigh it more heavily than the good. By focusing on what is important, rather than solely what is quantifiable, we can shape a more balanced and harmonious world.

In conclusion, the art of creating requires perseverance, flexibility, and a willingness to dance with systems. By closing the gap between our taste and our work through practice and repetition, we can improve our creative abilities. Simultaneously, by embracing the interconnectedness of the world and collaborating with systems, we can design a better future. Here are three actionable pieces of advice to guide you on your creative journey:

• 1. Embrace the process: Instead of fixating on the outcome, focus on the joy of creating and learning. Allow yourself to make mistakes and view them as opportunities for growth.

• 2. Seek diverse perspectives: Invite others to challenge your assumptions and collect as many possible explanations or hypotheses. Learn in public and remain open-minded to new ideas and insights.

• 3. Stay true to your values: Recognize the intrinsic responsibility you have as a creator. Ensure that your decisions align with your values and contribute positively to the world around you.

Remember, anyone can create what matters. It's not about being a prodigy or possessing innate talent. It's about embracing the journey, practicing relentlessly, and dancing with the systems that shape our world.