The Importance of Creativity
Creativity is like a magical spark that brightens the hearts and minds of everyone it touches. It’s a force that taps into our hopes, dreams, and fears for humanity.
Part of being a storyteller is allowing a story to come to life on its own. There are moments when I sit down to write, and the words just pour from my pen as if they come from a mysterious, unseen source.
In those moments, it feels like magic.
During the creative process big ideas flow through me into the story. These ideas come in the form of images, metaphors, and language, making the story something that feels both a part of me… and a part of something even larger.
Writing gives me the freedom as a storyteller to talk about deep and subtle things and to enter into the minds of my characters. For instance, when I wrote The Merlin Saga, I felt Merlin’s journey so deeply it was as if his trials and triumphs were my own.
Connection Through Creativity
The importance of creativity lies not only in individual expression but also in its ability to foster connection. This connection allows us to understand each other more deeply and share our personal journeys — a vital step in helping us learn, grow, and come together in meaningful ways.
When you share a story, you’re giving a piece of your soul to the world. Readers see the world from your perspective, which can build sensitivity, compassion, and awareness. The bonds you cultivate through your creativity help teach others how to exist harmoniously on this planet — not just with our fellow humans, but with all living creatures.
As an example, when I was writing my book The Ancient One, I wanted readers to experience the ancient wisdom of the redwoods and understand their significance in the world. I hope that this awareness, this connection, will in turn inspire others to have compassion and sensitivity toward nature.
The Magic of Creativity
Think about the last time you read a book, heard a song, or saw a painting that moved you. The artist shared their world with you, and for a little while, you felt what they felt and saw what they saw.
That’s the magic of creativity.
It bridges gaps between people, cultures, and generations. It makes us realize that despite our differences, we share common hopes, dreams, and fears.
Oftentimes, I feel that my stories are like little boats that I spend time crafting until they’re finally shipworthy and ready to sail. Then I lovingly set them free upon the great ocean that connects all people across distances, cultures, languages, and times. Those “story boats” sail away to have their own journeys, their own adventures, touching the lives of people on faraway shores, people I will probably never meet.
And though I don’t know where those boats have landed, I trust that they have brought something meaningful in their holds — a new idea, perhaps, or a good reason for hope, or a small source of inspiration.
Encouraging Creativity in Children
My favorite part of being an author is seeing how creativity multiplies — my books inspire the imagination of a smart and caring reader, and then that reader creates something truly wonderful. That’s what it’s all about.
I often receive artwork and stories from readers, and each piece holds a special place in my heart, especially those created by children. After all, children are natural creators.
Children are effortless in their ability to think creatively and tell stories that are pure and unfiltered. When you encourage a child to explore their imagination, you help them develop a skill and, perhaps more importantly, you help them find their voice. You teach them that their ideas matter — and by extension, they matter — and that they can make a difference in the world. Every story they tell, every picture they draw, is a step toward building a better future.
Nurturing Creativity
So, how can we nurture creativity in ourselves and others? Here are a few simple tips to embrace the importance of creativity:
- Make time for creativity: In our busy lives, it’s easy to push creativity to the side. Make it a priority. Set aside time each day to write, draw, or simply daydream.
- Encourage curiosity: Ask questions and explore new ideas. Don’t be afraid to wonder “what if” and see where it takes you.
- Embrace mistakes: Creativity often involves trial and error. Don’t be afraid of making mistakes. They’re a valuable part of the learning process.
- Collaborate with others: Share your ideas with others and be open to their input. Collaboration can spark new ideas and take your creativity to new heights.
- Stay inspired: Surround yourself with things that inspire you. Read books, listen to music, visit museums, or spend time in nature.
On my website, I have a special section dedicated to spreading creativity. Especially useful to writers is “A Special Essay for Writers” — and I hope you’ll laugh with me at the completely bizarre story of how I got started as a writer. You’ll also enjoy the many episodes from my podcast, Magic & Mountains, devoted to the agony and ecstasy of writing and the mystery and power of creativity.
We are the ideas we have. We are the dreams we cherish. We are the gifts we share. These are all facets of our creativity. I hope these resources will encourage you to find your own unique voice, create what you love, and share your ideas with the world.
