Pablo Picasso once said, “Our goals can only be reached through a vehicle of a plan, in which we must fervently believe, and upon which we must vigorously act. There’s no other route to success.” This sentiment resonates deeply with anyone who has ever grappled with the challenge of balancing creativity with structure.
At first glance, creativity might seem like a free spirit, unbound by rules or routines. But in reality, even the most spontaneous creative bursts often thrive within a framework. While it might seem counterintuitive, setting boundaries can actually fuel our creative fires, rather than extinguish them.
Childhood Rules and Their Impact
Growing up, many of us were surrounded by rules. From household chores to academic guidelines, these structures were omnipresent. While they provided a sense of order, they often felt restrictive, especially when they seemed arbitrary or overly rigid. Over time, this can lead to a resistance to any form of structure, associating it with control and limitation.
The Misconception of Unbridled Creativity
Early in my creative journey, I believed that true creativity was spontaneous, unstructured, and free from constraints. This notion was fueled by the romanticized image of artists as untamed spirits, producing masterpieces in inspired frenzies. However, this portrayal is far from the reality of most successful creatives.
Consistency: The Key to Creative Success
View this post on Instagram
The turning point in my understanding came when I realized the importance of consistent action. Take the story of Brandon Stanton, the creator of Humans of New York. His journey from a bond trader to one of the most influential photographers of our time wasn’t a result of sporadic bursts of inspiration. It was the outcome of daily dedication, a structured approach, and a commitment to his craft.
Embracing Structure in Creativity
The lesson here is clear: while creativity is essential, it needs a vessel—a structure—to flourish. By setting up routines, frameworks, and systems, we can channel our creative energies more effectively, leading to more consistent and impactful results.
In the end, it’s not about stifling creativity with rules but about providing it with the right environment to grow and thrive. As Picasso aptly put it, a plan is the vehicle that drives us towards our goals. And with the right balance of creativity and structure, there’s no limit to what we can achieve
Enjoy!
Listen to the Podcast
