The Lost Art of Being Creative: Why Adults Abandon Their Inner Artist (And How to Find It Again)
There's a certain sadness in the phrase 'I used to be creative.' It's like hearing someone say they used to laugh freely, or dream boldly. Personally, I think this loss of creativity in adulthood is one of the most under-discussed tragedies of modern life. We celebrate childhood as a time of unbridled imagination, yet we seem to accept its disappearance as a natural part of growing up. But why?
What makes this particularly fascinating is the realization that it's not just about losing a hobby. Creativity is a fundamental part of what makes us human. It's how we process the world, express ourselves, and find joy in the mundane. So, when we abandon our creative pursuits, we're not just giving up painting or singing; we're silencing a vital part of ourselves.
The Scars We Carry: Childhood and the Fear of Failure
The article from CBC PEI highlights a crucial point: many adults carry 'art scars' from childhood. A detail that I find especially interesting is the idea that even well-meaning praise can be damaging. Telling a child they're 'so talented' can inadvertently create a fear of failure. If your worth as an artist is tied to being 'talented,' any misstep becomes a personal failing.
This raises a deeper question: are we raising children to be afraid of imperfection? From my perspective, the emphasis on talent over process is a major contributor to the creative drought in adulthood. We need to celebrate the messy, the experimental, the downright awful first drafts. That's where true creativity thrives.
The Messy Middle: Where Creativity Lives
Patrick Guindon's concept of the 'messy middle' is brilliant. It's a reminder that creativity isn't about polished perfection; it's about the journey. What this really suggests is that we need to reframe our understanding of art. It's not about the final product; it's about the act of creation itself. The smudges, the false starts, the moments of frustration – these are all part of the process.
Beyond Hobby: Creativity as Self-Care
What many people don't realize is that creativity isn't just a luxury; it's essential for our well-being. Research shows that engaging in creative activities can improve mental and physical health. It's a form of self-care that goes beyond bubble baths and face masks.
Finding Your Tribe: The Power of Community
Nick MacDonald's point about finding a supportive environment is crucial. If you take a step back and think about it, creativity often flourishes in communities. Think of writers' groups, dance troupes, or even online fan art communities. There's a sense of belonging and encouragement that fuels the creative fire.
We need more spaces where adults feel safe to be beginners, to make mistakes, and to learn without judgment.
Permission to Be Bad (At First): Embracing Failure
Guindon's advice to 'allow yourself permission to miss it, or to fail it' is liberating. One thing that immediately stands out is how counterintuitive this feels in a culture obsessed with success. But it's precisely this fear of failure that paralyzes so many adults. We need to give ourselves permission to be bad at something before we can get good at it.
The Reward of Showing Up
Reequal Smith's experience with dance classes is a beautiful reminder of the power of showing up. Even when we're tired, even when it feels like a struggle, engaging in creative activities can be incredibly rewarding. In my opinion, this is where the true magic lies. It's not about the end result; it's about the process, the dedication, the act of choosing to create despite the fear.
Rediscovering the Joy
The message from these PEI artists is clear: it's never too late to reclaim your creativity. Personally, I think this is a call to action for all of us. Whether it's picking up a paintbrush, writing a poem, or simply doodling in a notebook, let's rediscover the joy of creating without judgment, without fear, and without the need for perfection. The world needs our unique voices, our messy middles, and our willingness to try.
