If you’ve ever been involved in a creative endeavor, then you know that it’s a demanding process. Not only do you have to generate ideas and solutions on a regular basis, but you also have to deal with the fear of criticism and rejection. Despite these challenges, many creative people push themselves to their limits in order to create. But what exactly makes them tick? It’s not hard to come up with a list of traits that define creativity, but it’s not quite as easy to pinpoint what creative individuals are like at their core.
1. They are energetic.
Creativity requires a lot of energy, which is why creatives tend to be very energetic individuals. They put a lot of passion into their work and show it off whenever they’re working. This high level of energy can make them very productive, but it’s also important for them to be able to relax and switch off at times so that they don’t burn themselves out.
2. They are intelligent, yet naive.
While creatives are often considered to be intelligent, they are also naive in the way that they approach their work. This is because they are willing to explore various methods in order to achieve their desired results. This, in turn, can lead to them being misunderstood by others. For example, a friend of mine who is an artist has been criticized for not having a specific style that can be identified as hers. This type of behavior may be seen as uncommitted and nonchalant, but it’s actually a healthy way to approach your craft.
3. They have a broad range of interests.
Creatives have a deep curiosity that makes them interested in all aspects of life. They are fascinated by how things work, which can lead them to ask questions about everything from why the sky is blue to how content goes viral on social media. This broad interest allows them to see the world in new ways and find hidden patterns that are usually overlooked.
4. They are flexible and innovative.
While most people are prone to sticking with routines that have worked for them in the past, creatives are always willing to step outside of their comfort zones. This is because they see life as something that should be embraced and challenged rather than shrunk away from.
5. They are open-minded and mindful.
Creative people are usually open to listening to other opinions and perspectives, which is an important aspect of creativity. They are also more aware of the role that luck has played in their successes, as opposed to being arrogant and self-promoting.
Finally, creatives are usually more mindful of the fact that they stand, in Newton’s words, “on the shoulders of giants.” They respect the history of their industry and are well aware of the importance of building on past contributions to the field. This understanding can help them to avoid becoming complacent and stagnant.