Write because you can

Creativity is not just the sole province of “Superstar Genius Artist Types”.  Many of us believe - are convinced, in fact – that we do not have a creative bone in our body.  We believe that other people have some artistic gene that we missed out on and which gives them an advantage.  Yes there are people who seem to know very early on that they are creative, and they pursue that arena to great effect and success.  But these truly are the rare cases.  For most of us it is more of a gradual awakening as opposed to something always felt from childhood.

Some so-called artists seem to just get by doing the same old, same old stuff.  Such have even ceased to do original things or take risks in their work.  Instead they have become limited by their beliefs.  For other artists it’s even worse: they become blocked and then stay there, not creating anything at all.  I’m sure you’ve heard of “Writer’s Block”, which can be “Painter’s Block”, “Designer’s Block” and “Photographer’s Block” too.  There are many ways to be blocked! 

“That is why, in order to write and be creative in our writing – and indeed in any pursuit - we must each “prepare the vessel and the spirit will descend”.  Much like anything else worthwhile in life, you get back what you put in.”

If there is such a thing as a creative gene, it may simply be that it is dormant within you.  With no outlet for your talent though, how would you even know if you have one or not?  A creative streak needs to be found and expressed. And it may even need to be coaxed out of hiding.

No one has a monopoly any creative outlet, or on being an artist for that matter.  The creative arts are about identifying problems and harnessing our ability to solve them in unique ways.  We – you and me – are inherently creative.  You can write, paint, draw, sculpt, shoot, design, or basically do whatever you decide you want to do.  You can solve problems!  It’s about creating the opportunity to showcase what you can do. It’s about choosing the correct outlet for your creative expression.

You could keep a journal or you might start a blog or a website for creative writing or poetry. You might just do facebook notes and share them with your friends and family, just for fun. The point is in the doing.

That is why, in order to write and be creative in our writing – and indeed in any pursuit - we must each “prepare the vessel and the spirit will descend”.  Much like anything else worthwhile in life, you get back what you put in.

We are all artists of life. 

Photographer: Anthea Paul