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UnsplashNot everyone is naturally creative, and creativity isn’t always fun for those who possess this trait. It’s messy, unconventional, and sometimes downright weird. But if you’re reading this, there’s a spark in you – and that’s awesome. Here’s the unfiltered truth about what creative people actually do.
They daydream a lot, but it’s not always sunshine and rainbows.
They zone out, sure, but their brain is busy connecting the dots, absorbing inspiration from everything around them. It’s not laziness, it’s how they fuel their creative fire. Don’t let anyone tell you that daydreaming is a waste of time – it’s essential.
They embrace the weird.
Forget normal, that’s boring. They question the status quo, challenge norms, and explore ideas others might call “out there.” Some might call them eccentric, but groundbreaking ideas rarely come from playing it safe. Lean into what makes you different, that’s your superpower.
They’re relentless information sponges.
They devour books, articles, podcasts – anything that feeds their curiosity. Information is ammunition for creativity. The more they know, the wilder the ways they can combine ideas to create something truly unique. Never stop learning.
They don’t shy away from imperfection.
First drafts are messy, ideas are constantly evolving. Creative people aren’t afraid to put out something rough because they know it’s a stepping stone. Perfectionism will stifle your flow – embrace the messy beginnings and let the masterpiece emerge over time.
They wear their failures proudly.
They get knocked down, but they get back up – fast. Failures are learning experiences, not stop signs. Creative people analyze what bombed, adjust their approach, and fearlessly keep pushing forward. Resilience is key, because rejection is part of the process.
They steal like artists (but better).
Nothing is truly original – everything is built on what came before it. Creative people learn from the masters, borrow ideas, even swipe techniques, but then elevate them with their own spin. It’s about transformation, never cheap imitation.
They schedule time to be bored.
Creativity can’t be forced. Sometimes the best ideas strike when they’re relaxing, showering, or staring out the window. Schedule boredom breaks in their day – give their subconscious time to make unexpected connections and surprise them with inspiration.
They collaborate (but also crave alone time).
Creative people love bouncing ideas off others, but they also fiercely guard focused time to refine their vision. Find your tribe – collaborators who challenge and inspire you. But remember, some magic only happens when you work alone.
They’re brutally honest with themselves (and sometimes others).
They constantly evaluate their work, ruthlessly identifying weaknesses and areas for improvement. Their inner critic can be harsh, but that’s what pushes them to keep getting better. Don’t be afraid of constructive criticism from others either, it’s the key to growth.
They don’t wait for permission.
Creative people take initiative, experiment, and chase those wild ideas rattling around in their head. Forget waiting for someone to tell them it’s okay. Believe in your vision and go for it – permission can come later.
They multitask (shockingly).
Juggling multiple projects might seem crazy, but for some creatives, it sparks unexpected connections. They can bounce from one idea to another, finding inspiration in the most chaotic of places. Just be sure you can bring order to the chaos and actually finish things.
They don’t need fancy tools (but they appreciate them).
Creativity can strike with a napkin and a pen. While fancy tools can be helpful, they’re no substitute for raw talent and imagination. Don’t get caught up in gear envy – focus on developing your creativity.
They have a cause they care about deeply.
The best creative work often stems from fiery passion. Find a cause that lights your soul on fire, something you fiercely believe in. That passion will fuel your creativity and make your work infinitely more meaningful.
They’re lifelong learners.
Creative people are never satisfied, always seeking new knowledge and experiences. They push their boundaries, explore different disciplines, and constantly evolve. This never-ending curiosity keeps their creative wellspring overflowing with new ideas and approaches.
They don’t take themselves too seriously.
They know how to laugh at themselves, their failures, and the absurdity of the creative process. They can have fun, experiment playfully, and find joy in the unexpected. This lightness keeps it fun, and that’s when the creative breakthroughs happen.
