Creative people have a unique ability to see the world in new and different ways. They can spot opportunities for innovation where others might only see dead ends. They have a general curiosity about the things they encounter in life, often asking questions that no one else would think to ask (e.g., “Why is the sky blue?” or “How does content become viral on social media?”). They generate a lot of ideas and solutions, even for seemingly mundane issues.
The problem is that if you’re a creative person, the world can sometimes seem like an endless canvas, and it can be hard to know when to stop. This restlessness can be the source of many creative endeavors, but it can also lead to burnout. The key to success for creative people may be finding a way to find balance between the desire to push boundaries and the need to take time out to refresh the mind.
Fortunately, a few simple practices can help creative people find the balance they need. First, they must understand that creativity is not just a personality trait; it is also a state of being. This is why many artists, musicians and writers have turned to meditation as a way to tap into their creative minds. The practice can help them focus and clear their minds, giving them space to work on their projects without distractions or interruption.
Second, they must learn to deal with failure. Creativity is not easy, and it is not uncommon for a new idea to be a complete flop. As such, the best creative people have a deep resilience to criticism and failure. They view each mistake as a learning opportunity and a chance to make something better next time. They’re not afraid to keep trying until they get it right, and they’re confident that if they’re not good on their first attempt, they’ll eventually succeed.
Third, they must have a solid understanding of their own needs. Creative people are often misunderstood by those around them, and they can feel like they don’t fit into the systems that they’re forced into. As a result, they may act out in a variety of ways.
The important thing is for creative people to recognize that their non-conformist behaviors are actually a form of self-expression. In a culture that often stigmatizes these traits, they must be willing to embrace their uniqueness and find a sense of belonging that follows from there. Otherwise, they risk losing their creativity to the pressure to conform. The mental health industry can play a role here as well. By assuming that creative people are suffering from pathology because they don’t fit into existing systems, they may end up seeking treatment that isn’t necessary. It’s vital that we give these people the support they need to be able to express their creativity. This is how we will thrive as a society and continue to innovate and grow.