The germ of an idea doesn't make the sculpture that stands up... so the next stage is hard work
Mihaly CsikszentmihalyiRead
When we are involved in [creativity], we feel that we are living more fully than during the rest of life.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Creativity allows us to experience life more deeply and fully.
Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi's quote emphasizes that engaging in creative activities can enhance our sense of living more completely compared to other aspects of life. It suggests that creativity brings a unique fulfillment and a deeper connection to our existence, making it an essential part of a meaningful life.
Themes
CreativityFulfillmentLifeEngagementExperience
In practice
Example use cases
During a workshop on creative writing, one might share this quote to inspire participants.
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To live means to experience-through doing, feeling, thinking. Experience takes place in time, so time is the ultimate scarce resource we have. Over the years, the content of experience will determine the quality of life. Therefore one of the most essential decisions any of us can make is about how one's time is allocated or invested.
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It is as if evolution has built a safety device in our nervous system that allows us to experience full happiness only when we are living at 100%-when we are fully using the physical and mental equipment we have been given.
Mihaly CsikszentmihalyiRead
Our jobs determine to a large extent what our lives are like. Is what you do for a living making you ill? Does it keep you from becoming a more fully realized person? Do you feel ashamed of what you have to do at work? All too often, the answer to such questions is yes. Yet it does not have to be like that. Work can be one of the most joyful, most fulfilling aspects of life. Whether it will be or not depends on the actions we collectively take.
Mihaly CsikszentmihalyiRead
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