“The creative adult,” said Ursula K. Le Guin, “is the child who survived.” This poignant observation serves as a reminder for adults that the innate creativity we once embraced as children can often fade away as we grow older. Why is it that kids seem to access their creativity with such ease while adults struggle?
There are several factors at play. Children’s imaginations aren’t shackled by the restraints of societal norms or the fear of failure—after all, the stakes are lower when your mom is thrilled to hang your finger paintings on the fridge. In contrast, adults often feel pressure to deliver polished outcomes, which can stifle their imaginative impulses.
Here are five insights we can take from children’s natural creativity:
- Prioritize the Journey Over the Destination
Adults frequently fixate on the final product of creative endeavors, measuring success by the outcome rather than the experience itself. We often evaluate our creative efforts based on how closely they resemble a polished end result. In contrast, children revel in the process—the exploration, experimentation, and joy of discovery. They cherish the experiences leading up to the final piece, which serves as a memento of their creative journey. - Embrace Innocence
Many adults carry preconceived notions about their creative abilities, often leading to self-doubt: “I can’t draw,” or “I’m not good at this.” Such fixed beliefs hinder our willingness to try new things. Children, however, are blissfully unaware of these limitations. They dive into creative tasks driven by curiosity, leading to the development of skills they never thought they could possess. This concept aligns with the “growth mindset” described by Stanford professor Carol Dweck, who emphasizes the power of believing in one’s ability to improve. - Less Instruction, More Exploration
The idea that “you can’t teach creativity” has merit. Many creative geniuses in history have reported that traditional education often stifled their innovative thinking. They preferred self-directed learning, which allowed for greater freedom and exploration. Children naturally engage in creative play without the constraints of rigid instructions, following their instincts and letting their imaginations guide them. This mindset is why self-directed learning thrives in environments like those at our creative studios. - Let Go of Self-Criticism
Adults often struggle with harsh self-criticism, which can stifle creativity. However, even the most renowned creative minds have their share of uninspired ideas. Research shows that the difference lies in their willingness to explore those ideas, regardless of how they may be perceived. Children exhibit this same fearless approach; if something doesn’t work, they learn from it and try again without dwelling on failure. Embracing this mindset can transform the creative process into a more enjoyable experience. - Originality is Overrated
Many adults feel pressured to create something utterly unique, which can be paralyzing. The truth is, every idea is built upon previous concepts, and true originality often comes from remixing existing ideas. Children intuitively grasp this—they take inspiration from the world around them and use it to fuel their creativity. By allowing ourselves to borrow from established concepts, we can unleash our own creativity without the burden of perfection.
As Dr. Seuss wisely noted, “Adults are just obsolete children.” The childlike spirit of creativity remains within us, waiting to be reignited. These lessons can help us reconnect with that inner child and embrace our creative potential once more. If you’re interested in more insights related to home insemination, check out our post on intracervical insemination. And for a deeper understanding of fertility, visit Make a Mom.
In summary, children’s unbridled creativity offers valuable lessons for adults. By focusing on the process rather than the product, embracing a mindset of exploration, reducing self-criticism, and recognizing that originality stems from remixing existing ideas, we can unlock our creative potential and enjoy the journey of self-expression.