Should creativity come easily?

J. D. from Pana, Illinois asked, "Why is it that some people seem to do creative things so easily? It always feels like work to me."

Dear J.D.

It does seem as if some people have an easy time using creativity. But as a friend reminded me a few days ago, it takes extraordinary effort to make something wonderful. Athletes do not become Olympic Medalists by being born with the ability – although it may help their success. Great writers read voraciously. They write fiction and non-fiction that only prepares them for the one piece that makes people shout that they are great writers. Dancers dance while eating, sleeping and dusting. Composers play music other than their own long before they begin to write music. So get prepared to put in extraordinary effort to see your creativity grow.

“If we did all the things we are capable of, we would literally astound ourselves!”—Thomas A. Edison

I think the most important thing is to find joy in giving extraordinary effort. The sweat, tears and frustration are the joys of failing – finding one more way that doesn’t work. It brings you closer to finding the way that does work.

“Nearly every man who develops an idea works at it up to the point where it looks impossible, and then gets discouraged. That’s not the place to become discouraged! Many of life’s failures are men who did not realize how close they were to success when they gave up.”—Thomas A. Edison

We may all wish for easy, but no one promises us that it will be. Find the joy of failure and your success will come from extraordinary effort.

Thanks for asking!  Lynnette Schuepbach

Lynnette is an author/illustrator who sees creativity in every aspect of life. To find out more about her and creativity, visit her Web site KidsDoRead.com.  Her children’s books create curiosity in children and speak to sibling rivalry and bullying.

Lynnette serves as chair of Art in the Park on the second weekend of October at the Lindendale Park in Highland. Many local artists will be exhibiting there. It’s her pleasure to be a part of this opportunity for you to experience “World Class Art in a Hometown Atmosphere.” More info at www.highlandartscouncil.org.

Click here to send your question to Lynnette.