Lessons Learned from Shutdown Startups - Part 1: How to Find Your Hidden Creative Genius

Lessons Learned from Shutdown Startups - Part 1: How to Find Your Hidden Creative Genius

In the fast-paced world of startups, it's not uncommon for companies to come and go. One such company, Rdio, understood the power of a solid recommendation. Instead of relying on recommendations from store clerks, they harnessed the trust-building potential of recommendations from people you know. And let's be honest, the best recommendations always come from someone you trust.

This idea of recommendations and trust extends beyond the startup world. In any industry, word-of-mouth can make or break a business. People are more likely to trust a recommendation from a friend or family member than an advertisement. So, whether you're running a startup or a well-established company, never underestimate the power of a really solid recommendation.

Another lesson we can learn from the startup world is the value of offering a focused alternative. In a world filled with noise and countless options, sometimes smaller is better. By offering a focused alternative, you can differentiate yourself from the competition and appeal to a specific audience. Rdio understood this concept by providing recommendations from people you know, instead of overwhelming users with an endless sea of choices. Focusing on a specific niche can be a winning strategy in a crowded market.

Now, let's shift gears and delve into the topic of finding your hidden creative genius. Many people believe that creative genius is something you're born with, but the truth is that it can be cultivated and developed over time. Picasso once said, "It took me thirty years to draw that masterpiece in thirty seconds." This quote highlights the importance of practice and dedication in the creative process.

Research in cognitive psychology has shown that most groundbreaking work peaks during the late thirties, at least a full decade into an individual's career. This finding aligns with the concept of the "ten years of silence," where artists and creators often spend years honing their craft before producing truly remarkable work. This notion is supported by studies conducted by cognitive psychology professor John Hayes, who found that the majority of famous musical pieces, poems, and paintings were created after year 10 of the creator's career.

So, how can you tap into your own creative genius? The key is to give yourself permission to create junk. In any creative endeavor, you have to be willing to produce less-than-perfect work. As the saying goes, "The only way I can get anything written at all is to write really, really shitty first drafts." Amateurs wait for inspiration to strike, while professionals understand that creativity is a result of showing up and putting in the work consistently.

Chuck Close, a renowned artist, once said, "Inspiration is for amateurs. The rest of us just show up and get to work." This mindset is crucial for unlocking your creative potential. Set deadlines for yourself and commit to finishing projects, even if they're not perfect. Done is better than perfect, and by completing something, you'll prove to yourself that you have what it takes to produce high-quality work.

Don't let judgment prevent you from delivering your work to the world. Share it publicly, whether it's through a blog, social media, or other platforms. By sharing your work, you not only hold yourself accountable to creating your best work, but you also open yourself up to feedback and opportunities for improvement. Connecting with others who resonate with your work can be incredibly inspiring and help you refine your craft.

Remember, what seems simple to you may be brilliant to someone else. By choosing to share your creations, you give others the chance to appreciate your unique perspective and talent. Sharing your work publicly can bring about unexpected outcomes and lead you to like-minded individuals who can support and inspire you along your creative journey.

In conclusion, the lessons we can learn from shutdown startups and finding our hidden creative genius are interconnected. Trust and recommendations are powerful tools for success, whether you're running a startup or trying to gain recognition for your creative work. By offering a focused alternative and harnessing the power of recommendations, you can differentiate yourself in a crowded market.

Finding your creative genius requires persistence, dedication, and a willingness to produce imperfect work. Give yourself permission to create junk, set deadlines, and finish projects. Share your work publicly to hold yourself accountable, receive feedback, and connect with like-minded individuals. Remember, creativity is a lifelong journey that requires consistent effort and practice. So, start today and repeat these actions for the next ten years. Inspiration will reveal itself after perspiration.

Actionable Advice:

1. Embrace the power of recommendations: Whether you're running a business or trying to gain recognition for your work, recommendations from trusted individuals can amplify your success. Cultivate relationships and provide value to others to increase the likelihood of receiving powerful recommendations.

2. Focus on a niche: Instead of trying to cater to everyone, consider offering a focused alternative that appeals to a specific audience. By honing in on a niche market, you can differentiate yourself from the competition and establish a loyal customer base.

3. Share your work publicly: Don't let the fear of judgment hold you back from sharing your creations with the world. By putting your work out there, you open yourself up to feedback, improvement, and opportunities for collaboration. Plus, you never know who might find your work brilliant and be inspired by it.