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The Forgotten Flow: Why Creativity Fades and How to Find It Again
How embracing the process of creativity can reignite your inner spark.
Creativity, in its purest form, is a meditative state — a Zen-like flow that connects us to the present moment. It is not bound by rules or dictated by outcomes. It thrives with the freedom to explore, imagine, and play. It is awaken with peace, free of distractions. This process, more than the results it produces, is the essence of creativity. Yet in the hustle of adulthood and the structured demands of modern life, this vital force has become a lost art.
The Flow State of Creativity
Creativity breeds flow. When we immerse ourselves in creating — whether it’s painting, writing, problem-solving, or simply brainstorming — we enter a state of heightened focus and effortless action. This flow state, described by psychologist Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi, is not only pleasurable but also deeply fulfilling. It connects us to ourselves and the task at hand in a way few other activities can.
Yet, for many, the creative flow fades as life grows more rigid. Deadlines, responsibilities, and the pressures of productivity overshadow the joy of the process. Instead of focusing on the journey, we obsess over the destination, and creativity is…