How to be more creative without feeling self-conscious

What would you do, even if you knew you might fail? That is the secret to creative fulfillment, according to bestselling author Elizabeth Gilbert.

Creativity is driven by genuine curiosity. The biggest obstacle to this is fear (of rejection, criticism, or ridicule). But eradicating fear is impossible. Instead, acknowledge it and make space for it. Just don’t allow it to dictate your choices.

Failure is inevitable. Creativity is a risk, and sometimes the gamble doesn’t pay off. That can spiral into disappointment, shame and inertia. But this is just your wounded ego. It’s so greedy for reward that it can never be satisfied.

Creativity is not science. It transcends logic and reason. Gilbert believes that ideas are alive and have willpower, that they search for someone willing to realize them. If you don’t act on an idea, it’ll find someone else who will.

Sometimes you can be so immersed in creating something that you lose track of time. This is the magic of inspiration. It comes and goes as it pleases. Capture it immediately, go with the flow, and remember to be grateful.

Some ideas don’t respond to demands. These are the ones you have to let go. Don’t overthink it or try to force it. Trust that if it’s the right time, that idea will be born; if it isn’t, it won’t.

Thinking in terms of success and failure not only pits creatives against one another, but also against themselves. Create only for the pleasure of the act in itself. The joy it may bestow on others is an added bonus.

Being creative doesn’t require anyone’s permission but your own. Investing money and time doesn’t guarantee success. This can actually become a burden, increasing the need for financial reward, thereby dulling creativity. It’s a vicious circle of shame and stress.

Get on with the work by engaging with the world. Draw on your experiences. Share your perspective. Work on your craft every day. This makes you a creator – and you don’t need to pay anyone to tell you that.

Most importantly, be authentic. An idea becomes yours as soon as you put your stamp on it. It doesn’t have to be profound to be meaningful. It can just be cathartic. But always remember that ‘done’ is better than ‘good.’