The Creative Mind (Part One)

Creativity--the ability to formulate something that has not previously existed--is a whole branch of psychological study unto itself. And the researchers who explore this attribute have something to say to any serious practitioner of creativity: Such as the Writer.

In this (long) series, we'll begin to unpack the topic. But, as with all aspects of psychology, there are points of contention and argument, and lots of blank spaces. We're a long way from a complete understanding.

First, let's clarify one foundational concept:

A single, definable, "creative personality" does not exist.

In their review of the research, Tardif and Sternberg (1988) noted that no single personality trait has emerged from studies as the key to creativity.


And Mihaly Csikszentmihaly (1996), a noted researcher in Positive Psychology topics, said this:

"The point is that you cannot assume the mantle of creativity just by assuming a certain personality style. One can be creative by living like a monk, or by burning the candle at both ends. Michelangelo was not overly fond of women, while Picasso couldn't get enough of them. Both changed the domain of Painting, even thought their personalities had little in common."

This is vitally important, I think, because we're prone to stereotypes (have you noticed?)

Maybe you've always thought of "artistic types" as a little offbeat? A little loopy? (Technical psych term, there...) Inconstant? Moody? Shy & Retiring? Haughty? Sensitive? Flamboyant?

Some creative people are these things...Just as some stockbrokers, or retail clerks, or librarians, or firemen, or Sunday School teachers may share those traits, too. But many creative people aren't these things. And being Sensitive, or Moody, or a little loopy does not give you Instant Creativity.

I hope this frees you up a bit to be yourself...whatever that may be.

Writers...and other creative-types, come in all flavors. Including Vanilla.

Saw a guy riding a bike the other day, in the city where I work. He was dressed in a red shirt, blue pants, and yellow sneakers. A walking Color Wheel. In my world, that's a tad showy.... but that doesn't mean I can draw any meaningful conclusions. "There's a another weird artist."

If anything, your personality wouldn't determine whether or not you are creative...but it might influence the particular style in which your creativity exhibits itself. Out-of-the-box personalities are liable to create something really "out there"....while more conservative types will express themselves within carefully drawn boundaries. Outgoing personalities may be more drawn to performing arts...acting, for instance. While introverted personalities may prefer something more reclusive...say, writing.

But note that we're not saying that all writers are introverted and reclusive. We're saying that introverted and reclusive-type personalities would be more likely to pick a form of creativity that doesn't put them on stage in the bright lights.

So--please--don't put on airs. Don't act the part of a Writer (whatever that means to you) in hopes that your Muse will sing louder. Don't adopt a "persona" just to give your PR/Marketing staff grist for the publicity mill.

Be who you are.....Even if it's Vanilla.  We'll understand.


references:  Creativity (1996) Mihaly Csikszentmihaly; Harper Collins Books

Tardif and Sternberg (1988) What do we know about creativity? In R.J. Sternberg (ed) The Nature of Creativity; 429-440 New York: Cambridge University Press