Blogging from A to Z Challenge: C is for Craft and Curiosity

My theme for the Blogging from A to Z challenge is Creativity. Today I discuss Craft and Curiosity!

I think to really boost your creativity, you need to know your craft. Whether you’re writing, sculpting, dancing, or working on a new scientific theory, you need to know at least the basics of your field or hobby.

I’m not saying you can’t be creative by just jumping into something. Many people approach a creative project that way—the old “hold your nose and take the plunge” method. I just think you’re going to be more successful, and have a better chance of exploring your creativity, if you aren’t bogged down by struggling with the basics.

Along with the idea of learning your craft, is the need for curiosity in order to be creative. If you question things, learn more about your subject, be curious about the world, people, and things around you, your creativity will be sparked.

Say you’re writing about a cat stalking a mouse. You could probably come up with a suitable description. But if you first observe a real cat stalking a mouse, or some other critter, or read about cats, or watch a movie, or all of these things, your description will be much more creative. You might see some detail in the cat’s movement or reaction that triggers a way to make your writing original—perhaps adding something humorous or foreboding, depending on what your story or article is about.

Learn your Craft as the foundation for your creativity. Curiosity will help you dig deeper into your creativity, producing something that is truly “you.”