In the creative industries, there are some people who seem to be born with the ability to imagine whole new worlds. These people can be artists, musicians, or even scientists, and they often find innovative solutions to real-world problems. We often assume that creative types are extroverted, but in reality, there is an underlying sensitivity that allows them to engage in both extroversion and introversion. Creative people are masters at blending and matching seemingly contradictory emotions, ideas, and personality traits to create remarkable things.
In order to come up with the best ideas, a creative person needs a clear mind. This is why they tend to take time for themselves each day. They might meditate, take a long walk, or just sit and ponder life for a while. Creative people also appreciate the value of diversity, and try to avoid routine and habit, which can make their mind stale.
Creative people are often insatiably curious about everything around them. They want to understand why and how things are the way they are. They might ask a lot of questions, and enjoy conversations with other like-minded people. They are not afraid of being called strange or weird, and they have a great deal of trust in other people. This can be a strength, but it can also be a weakness as it could leave them vulnerable to being taken advantage of.
Many creative people have a passion for their work that is intense and deep. They do not see their work as a chore or something to be endured, but rather as an opportunity to express themselves and contribute to the greater good. Creatives are very aware of the fact that they stand, in Newton’s words, “on the shoulders of giants.” They respect the industry in which they operate and the long line of previous contributions to it, putting their own achievements into perspective. They are proud of their accomplishments, but they also embrace humility and shyness.
Creativity is an art, and artistic people are very aware of the ebb and flow of inspiration. They know that their creativity can be sucked dry by a lack of it, which is why they have the ability to switch gears and focus on other projects when they lose their inspiration.
Being able to switch focus is vital for anyone who wants to be creative, and that is why so many artists, musicians, and other creatives are good at multitasking. However, they still prioritize their projects and always return to their creative work when they feel it is needed. While some creatives are able to sustain this momentum, others will burn out if they are forced to keep their heads down and work all the time. Neither approach is ideal. The key is to find a balance between the two, so that you can have periods of productivity, and also time to recharge your batteries. It is no surprise that some of the world’s most successful creatives are meditators. Sting, Hugh Jackman, and David Lynch are all regular practitioners of the ancient discipline.