Creative people often do not fit into the systems that surround them. This may manifest in a variety of ways, from rebelling against the status quo to seeking mental health care to deal with powerful emotions. But one thing that creative people do is work hard to understand their own unique needs and to make sure they are set up for success in their endeavors.
They are curious and passionate about their work, and are not afraid to step outside of their comfort zone to try new things. Creatives also have a high tolerance for failure, as they know that not all ideas will be good on the first go and that each attempt is an important learning experience. They also tend to have a high level of physical energy, but they are able to focus and direct this energy when needed, and then immediately recharge it.
They can see beauty in the most mundane and everyday situations, recognizing that the world is an endless canvas waiting for their unique brushstrokes. They can also feel very restless, always searching for the next idea or challenge to tackle. This can lead to a lot of stress and exhaustion, as they struggle to find balance between work and life.
Many creatives have a deep interest in topics that are not commonly appreciated or understood by the general population, such as science fiction or ancient history. This specialized knowledge can allow them to see possibilities that others may not, and can give them an advantage in their field. However, it can also be lonely, as it is not common for the average person to share this passion or to understand their perspective.
As a result, they may be more likely to work in industries like technology and media, where specialized skills can carry you farther than a college degree. These professionals also tend to be self-taught, rather than being spoon-fed the information in standard educational settings. Creatives are also comfortable with being self-sufficient and don’t need to rely on the advice and counsel of others, which can be a great asset when working on their own projects.
Those who are creative often have very high standards for themselves and their work, and they can be extremely critical of themselves. They can also be stubborn and pigheaded, and will not give up on their projects even when they are not going well. This can be a great strength, but it is important for creatives to recognize when their project needs a fresh set of eyes and to seek out critiques from those who are unbiased about the work.
The research behind creativity shows that many of the traits associated with this mindset are positive and helpful in enabling productive individuals to be successful. However, it is worth noting that many of these same personality traits can also be harmful when they are taken to extremes. Those who are very stubborn and set in their ways can be difficult to live with, as they can have an inflexible attitude that does not lend itself to change or compromise. They can also suffer from low self-esteem as they continue to insist on their own path, even if it is not popular or accepted.