Many creative people, those who are recognised as having creative or artistic careers - actors, painters and authors for instance - wear their creativity openly like a big shiny badge proclaiming that yes they are someone for whom creativity is a central part in their life, and a major part of their identity. We accept and celebrate that this creativity is part of them and that working the same 9 to 5 day in an office over and over again just does not fit with them. Then there are others, for whom creativity and expressing themselves creatively is equally important, but for whatever reason, don't talk about it openly. It's almost like their little secret, the part of themselves that they desperately guard from the world and something only a very few close friends and family members know about. The Superman Syndrome Most of us are familiar with the Superman comics and films. Remember how Superman, when he wasn't saving the world dressed in red cape and underpants, was mild mannered Clark Kent, ace reporter on the Daily Planet? Recall too how Clark kept his double life secret from everyone, his friends, his work colleagues, even the woman of his affections, Lois Lane, and how painful and increasingly difficult this was for him to maintain. Think about your life for a moment, and how open you are about creativity and its importance to you. There are many reasons why we might keep our creativity a secret. Some of the most common ones are below. Look at those you relate to and add any others that are relevant specifically for you - Why you may be keeping your creativity a secret 1. Fear of being seen as foolish or not being taken seriously. "Yeh right, who ISN'T working an a novel right now..." 2. Feeling different or not being accepted because you challenge the "normal" way of work, watch tv, sleep, get up, work, watch tv, sleep, get up... 3. Fear that if you tell people you're creative, they will instantly expect an endless stream of amazing and original work from you. 4. Fear of having to prove or justify your creativity and live up to other people's definitions of what creative people do. (see also no 3. above) 5. Fear of being seen as too sensitive or delicate or "luvvy". 6. Fear that if you openly declare your creativity then your inspiration will suddenly dry up or disappear. Celebrate don't suppress! If you're genuinely happy to remain like Clark Kent and only let out your Superman (or woman!) when you're sure no-one will know it's you, then that's great. But most of us who are creative would benefit so much more from being able to be open, and celebrate rather than suppress our creativity. Here are just some of the reasons why ending your own "Superman Syndrome" and coming out to the world as a creative person can be a very good thing for you - 1. A calmer and happier existence, ending the stress of keeping such a fundamental part of yourself secret. 2. Being more attractive to other creative people. Being open about your creativity will naturally attract and encourage others who have similar feelings and abilities. 3. Feeling a valued part of a creative community, whether it's a local dance class or an international creativity forum or group on the internet. 4. Inspiring others. People who may be harbouring their own creative secrets will be inspired both by your work itself and by your courage at openly living a creative life. 5. An increase in opportunities for your creativity. As more people know what you do, those who could benefit from your talents will be able to find you more easily. 6. Being able to teach others. As people see you as being happy and confident in your creativity they'll seek you out for advice and help and give you the opportunity to share your creativity further. So if you're currently keeping your own creative pursuits - and ultimately your own creative identity - a secret, then consider carefully just how well that actually serves both yourself, and the world you live in... Copyright 2006 Dan Goodwin |
