A common misconception is that creative people are hyperactive and always “on.” They may work long hours, but their energy isn’t fueled by a superior physical endowment or a genetic advantage. Instead, they generate their own energy with the rhythm of intense activity followed by a period of rest or reflection. This is the “flow” state Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi talked about and is what makes creative people so successful.
Creative people often have an innate sense of playfulness and curiosity. This can show up in their relationships and in the way they approach life. They tend to think deeply and internalize their thoughts, examining them from all angles. They can be both playful and serious at the same time, both extroverted and introverted. They are sometimes naive as well, and can be easily taken advantage of by those who take advantage of their openness and trust.
Creativity is also about taking risks. This is why creative people often find success in fields that involve risk-taking. These include art, writing and music. There are many other areas that require creativity, such as graphic design and marketing. The key to success in these fields is finding a balance between being creative and analyzing the results.
Having creative ideas is only part of the equation, being able to bring them to fruition is what really matters. Creative people have a unique ability to be both passionate about their work and objective about it. For example, they may be able to identify what is missing in their work, or find ways to improve it. This is a result of their sensitivity and openness to criticism.
In addition, creatives are able to overcome the fear of failure. They understand that no one gets something right the first time, and they can learn from each attempt. They also know that the more they try, the more likely it is that something will stick.
Finally, creatives are not afraid to push themselves physically and mentally. This is especially important when they are working on a project that requires them to stretch their limits. For example, a writer who is trying to write the next great novel will often push themselves to write more than they normally would. A musician who wants to be the best will practice more than most people.
There are a lot of things that set creative people apart from others, but it is their willingness to go beyond the expected boundaries that sets them up for success. This can be in their career, their personal life or even in the way they interact with their family and friends. Creative people often find that they are happiest when they are pushing the edges of their comfort zone. This can be a good thing, but it is important to keep in mind the impact this could have on those around them. This is why it is important to have a support system in place. This is especially true for those who are attempting to break any rules that might be inhibiting their creativity.