I had a discussion recently with a marketing consultant, who had been overlooked for promotion (again). He was told that the clients loved him but his lack of creativity was holding him back.
He asked me for some advice.
I asked what he thought his creativity challenge was. He proceeded to reel off a list of excuses. From memory, I recall he blamed; his wife, his parents, his school, his boss, his co-workers, his friends and even his noisy neighbours.
Notice anyone missing from his list? Yes, he failed to include himself! I mentioned this to him and suggested he started looking for answers, rather than waste more time looking for excuses.
Excuses why we can’t or reasons why we can?
Excuses are easy, because blaming outside factors frees us of responsibility. If you’re OK about doing average, predictable work or art, go and find an excuse. Then… magically, you’re no longer responsible for your own thoughts — of course you are really, as no one actually believes that bullshit!
Yes, it takes courage to accept responsibility, but it’s essential. If you want to unlock your creativity, get to work on yourself. Look for answers. Seek out inspiration.
Then embrace and develop the creativity you were born with.