I really believe that creativity is an essential aspect of human life. I didn’t used to think so. In fact, for many years I told myself the story that I wasn’t remotely creative. All through school, I didn’t believe I could be creative because I didn’t really understand what creativity was. Now I think that all humans have the capacity for creativity and those who don’t think they are creative have just not found the right outlet for their innate creativity.

However, just because it is innate doesn’t mean it is easy. I think many of us grapple with a particular fear or obstacle that holds us back from expressing our creative potential. One of the biggest blocks that we encounter is the fear of creative failure, a common obstacle that can stifle our creative endeavours.

The fear of creative failure often manifests in various forms:

• Perfectionism: The relentless pursuit of perfection can be paralysing. It creates unrealistic expectations and, in turn, stifles the creative process. Sometimes good is good enough, especially if you are in the early stages of creating.
• Fear of judgment: Worrying about what others will think of our creative work can lead to self-censorship, making it difficult to take creative risks. I know this is something that constantly holds me back.
• Comparison: Constantly comparing your work to that of others can breed insecurity and inhibit originality.
• Lack of self-belief: Doubting your own creative abilities can prevent you from even starting a project.
• Fear of wasting time: The notion that creative endeavors might not yield tangible results can discourage people from pursuing their creative passions.

In the various courses and workshops I have attended, there tends to be very similar advice. None of these will be groundbreaking for you to read but I know I have to remind myself of them regularly so maybe simply writing them here will help me to remember them when I need to.

1. Accept Imperfection: Perfection is an unattainable goal. Instead of aiming for flawless creations, focus on progress and the journey. Understand that imperfections are opportunities to learn and grow.
2. Embrace Vulnerability: Creativity often requires opening yourself up to criticism and judgment. Accept that not everyone will appreciate your work, and that’s okay. What matters is your passion and expression.
3. Set Realistic Goals: Establish achievable milestones for your creative projects. This helps to maintain motivation and a sense of accomplishment, even when the big picture seems daunting.
4. Cultivate a Growth Mindset: This phrase has been overused in schools in recent times but it actually does apply. It is amazing what a bit of positive thinking and self-belief can do. Believe in your capacity for improvement. Treat failures and setbacks as opportunities to learn and refine your creative skills.
5. Find a Supportive Community: Surround yourself with like-minded individuals who can offer constructive feedback and encouragement. A supportive community can be a powerful antidote to the fear of creative failure. This is where writing communities like Writers HQ and the London Writing Salon have been so useful for me. When I feel alone and isolated, it is easy to get discouraged and wonder if any of it is worth it. With NaNoWriMo around the corner, I am determined to make the most of that community this year to write more words than ever.
6. Break Projects into Smaller Steps: Instead of being overwhelmed by a large project, break it down into smaller, manageable tasks. This makes the creative process less intimidating. Just go bird by bird.
7. Remember Your “Why”: Reconnect with the passion and purpose that drive your creativity maybe by journalling about it or chatting to a friend about why you love your project. I know that when I talk about my novel with people I care about, it always makes me more enthusiastic.

This quotation from Maya Angelou is both reassuring and motivating. It makes me want to get right back on creating, even if I might fail.

You can’t use up creativity. The more you use, the more you have.

Maya Angelou