How to Find Your Hidden Creative Genius and Stop Thinking About Productivity

Aug 13, 2023

4 min read

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Finding your hidden creative genius and achieving productivity are two goals that many people strive for. They may seem unrelated, but there are actually common points between the two that can help you unlock your potential and achieve success in both areas. In this article, we will explore these points and provide actionable advice on how to harness your creativity and focus.

Embrace the Process: Picasso once said, “It took me thirty years to draw that masterpiece in thirty seconds.” This quote reminds us that creativity is not an instantaneous process, but rather a result of years of practice and dedication. Cognitive psychology professor John Hayes found that groundbreaking work often peaks during the late thirties, after a decade of experience in a particular field. Similarly, in any creative endeavor, you must give yourself permission to create junk. Amateurs wait for inspiration to strike, while professionals create on a schedule. By showing up and doing the work consistently, even if it's not perfect, you are laying the foundation for your creative genius to emerge.
Finish Something: Many aspiring creatives get stuck in a cycle of researching, planning, and preparing, without ever actually producing anything. The key to unlocking your creative potential is to finish something. It doesn't matter if it's not perfect or groundbreaking. The act of completing a project, whether it's a story, a painting, or a musical piece, proves to yourself that you have what it takes to create. As author Neil Gaiman advises, "The most important thing you can do is do a lot of work." Set deadlines for yourself and commit to finishing one project every week or month. It is through this volume of work that your skills will improve, and your work will align with your ambitions.
Share Your Work: Don't let the fear of judgment prevent you from delivering your creations to the world. By sharing your work publicly, you not only hold yourself accountable to producing your best work, but you also invite feedback and inspiration from others. What may seem simple to you can be brilliant to someone else, but you'll never know unless you choose to share. Building a community of like-minded individuals who appreciate and resonate with your work can fuel your creative genius and push you to new heights.