Stages Of Creativity - Examining The Creative Process

In my pursuit to help others increase their creative and critical thought processes I am curious as to what others have to say on this matter.

So I have to wonder why do so many people who “teach” others how to be creative sound so analytical?

They often times talk about the “steps” to the creative process. As if knowing these steps helps you to be more creative.

Below is a perfect example of someone who talks about the “process” without helping anyone become more creative.

I don’t want to sound too harsh or critical. However, if you’re going to try to help people become more creative, a lecture doesn’t seem like the most efficient way of doing that.

And frankly, it seems that’s exactly what this man does… offer lectures.

I have absolutely no problem with anyone making a living. I just think Taylor’s view on creativity is very limited.

You can visit his site at jametaylor.me.

Watch the video of what James says and tell me what you think….

In the video above, (click here if it doesn’t play) Taylor gives you the break down on the creative process. He even includes the stages in the description below the video which seems like overkill.

In this video you’ll discover: How Does the Creative Process works?

Five Stages of Creativity – Process Model

The Preparation Stage – absorbing information
The Incubation Stage – letting subconsciousness do the work
The Insight Stage – Aha moment
The Evaluation Stage – is this an idea worth pursuing
The Elaboration Stage – 99% perspiration

The host in this video basically tells people WHAT to think instead of HOW to think. If you want to be creative… it must come from YOU.

These stages are weathered, grown over sign posts at best.

REAL creativity is more about decision making in the moment rather than something that springs from a predicable process like a lawyer would in a trial or a doctor would in surgery.

Our creativity has been so pounded out of most of us that we need some good guidance on how to get it back again.

Between the school system, disciplined parents, corporate working environments, government regulations and societal rules of all types, the human fountain of creativity often runs dry.

And NO, part of the stages of creativity, is knowing the best ideas DON’T come in the shower or in the middle of the night.

The best ideas are the ones that stick with you and continue to pop up over and over again through months or even years.

When you listen to a working artist, someone who is practicing and going through their stages of creativity every day, they usually talk about how they arrive at certain decisions.

Art has much to do with decision making DURING experimentation.

If you want to become a better artist and more creative, practice your art form and watch your thought process as you do it.

Nothing is more important to an artist then understanding what they find interesting, beautiful and compelling.

As you define your preferences… your like and dislikes… you will become more creative and a better artist for understanding yourself more intimately.

An artist must know themselves.

It sounds simple, but if you’ve never asked yourself what you truly prefer or not you’ll have a tough time creating art you enjoy. I wish you much imagination. Seek your craft and live your art.