Nurturing Creativity

"Why haven't I written my book by now?" Is a question I ask myself at least bi-monthly.  


I laughed when Mike asked me to view this talk with him, after a conversation we had about my inadequacies as a writer—or "want to be" writer (says my future self)—because how many times have I felt some sort of creative genius pass through me, inspiring me with words, thoughts, and ideas, only to pass on quickly, leaving me stumped, and even more confused then when I first picked up my pen to write? (Many, in case you are wondering).


I procrastinate my pen touching the page because some how I feel cheated.  I feel like I have a passion to write, but my talent is only up to par when the creative juices are flowing.  I also fear, as Gilbert addressed on TED, that I won't live up to society's standards, that I will fail in my creative work because of the poor, negative aspects others will see in it. 


I am grateful for the inspiration of other creative thinkers who have defied the odds—lived through the pressure of working with their creative genius no matter the outcome (failed or successful).  I hope I can use their example to inspire me to trudge through the blank pages, to finish what I started, ignoring whatever outcome the finished product ignites.


If you have a moment check out this 20 minute talk by Elizabeth Gilbert.  It will change the way you think that you must concoct a Mozart symphony each time you attempt to tap into your creative genius.  "Ole, Ole," she says out loud, "keep embracing your inner "genius", creative thinker!!!"


http://www.ted.com/talks/elizabeth_gilbert_on_genius.html#.TvVqtmbO84A.facebook