14 Thoughts on Work and Creativity

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I’ve been in a creative rut for the past month. Work’s been unforgiving and other life priorities have taken precedence over creative ventures.

That’s OK though. We do what we need and power through.

Here are 14 thoughts on work and creativity:

1. Traditional work and creative work can both be fulfilling at times.

2. That said, I could live happily without traditional work. I could not live happily without creative work.

3. Fortunately, they can coexist.

4. Sometimes creative work is blended into traditional work. For example, a design engineer thinks outside the box to develop unique solutions.

5. Other times, creative work must be sought out separately, such as this essay.

6. A good mix of traditional work and creative work is ideal.

7. Too much traditional work squanders creativity and the desire to do creative work. It’s an energy drain.

8. The reverse is true of creative work. It's invigorating, even when stacked on top of traditional work.

9. Unfortunately, traditional work often takes higher precedence because of money, which is paramount to survival.

10. Creative work also takes a backseat to things like family and health, for very good reasons.

11. This does not mean creative work becomes unnecessary. It just means you become less happy.

12. Ideally, traditional work should be kept in check to allow time for all priorities, including creative work.

13. When life throws you off, don’t accept the new norm. Survive then fight back to equilibrium.

14. Never give up entirely on creative work.

Best,

Jason