Screw Your To-Do List: How Following Directions Impedes Creativity
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Chapter 1: The Dilemma of Following Directions
From a young age, we are often instructed to "adhere to the guidelines." But is this truly beneficial for individuals with a creative mindset?
Recently, I attended a lunch meeting with new employees, and two VPs joined us. During the conversation, one newcomer asked, "What do you expect from us?" The VPs exchanged amused glances and replied, "We want you to follow the directions."
In the pharmaceutical industry where I work, this response isn't unexpected; stringent rules govern the creation of intravenous medications to ensure safety. Deviating from these guidelines can have dire consequences.
These VPs lead highly structured lives, attending meetings via their phones and conforming to corporate dress codes. They preach company policies, lacking any sense of originality or spontaneity. But what about the creative individuals among us? Should we really confine ourselves to the rules?
Only color inside the lines?
Never venture off the beaten path?
Stay on the straight and narrow?
Absolutely not. Our inner creativity demands freedom; placing restrictions on it suffocates it. For artistic expression to thrive, one must take risks and explore unconventional methods of crafting.
Exploring Historical Inspirations
Consider the legendary Picasso—did he ever believe he had to apply paint to canvas according to strict protocols? There were no detailed instructions for creating abstract art; he simply expressed his inner feelings. Fueled by his imagination, he dabbled in various styles, including Cubism, Neoclassicism, Modernism, Post-Impressionism, and Surrealism. He had no script, checklist, or elaborate plan guiding his creativity.
And neither should you.
Your ability to create freely is your greatest strength as an artist. Allowing it to be constrained will lead you to become just another cog in the machine, blending in with those who adhere to societal norms. While following rules may feel safe, it seldom leads to true fulfillment. If you suppress your creative expression, you'll find yourself questioning why that vital spark faded.
Embracing Chaos
Life is inherently chaotic—it's never neatly organized. Why attempt to constrain your artistic spirit with rigid schedules, reminders, or time-management tools? Embrace unpredictability. Channel the energy that might otherwise be spent on adhering to rules into your creative pursuits. While society may urge you to conform, embracing randomness can help you maintain your artistic edge.
Chaos can be beautiful.
Tune into your own rhythm, and you may discover that your productivity increases when you abandon strict time management. Tools meant to enhance productivity only work if they genuinely help you achieve more. Many find them stifling, especially those who aren't naturally inclined towards obsessive organization. If you thrive in flexibility, find a method that allows your creativity to flourish.
Defy Expectations
At times, it can feel pointless to swim against the tide. Society expects you to set alarms and reminders for every task. When you need to focus on your work, the constant interruptions from your phone can be frustrating, especially when you’re on the verge of a breakthrough. The flow state is elusive and magical.
Your friends and family should recognize this aspect of your life. As an artist, your existence is often less structured. It's essential to communicate that you require uninterrupted "working" hours, even if it means dedicating an entire Saturday. Prioritizing your creative process is crucial, and establishing boundaries is a reasonable request.
You don’t have to become a recluse to enjoy your craft; seek out smart strategies that allow you to dedicate more time to your first love: your art.
In Conclusion
Society pushes you to be punctual and compliant. However, artists tend to think and operate differently. The key is to maintain an open mind and focus on your art—shielding yourself from external pressures. Strive to create the best work possible without letting societal norms hold you back.
Thank you for reading! I invite your comments and thoughts. For more insights from my creative mind, feel free to follow me on Medium.
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