What people get wrong about creativity.

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00:37 - I. Creativity
03:10 - II. Art is Not a War
06:19 - III. Boredom is a Superpower
07:34 - IV. Don't Think
09:37 - V. Creativity is Like a Muscle
10:18 - VI. Developing Your Own Voice

[@ShaunHolden]

Literally worked 4 hours today and I was like “I need to take a walk to think more creatively when I’m back” I agree - take better care of yourself. I find better sleep is always a good antidote to brain fog!

[@rajunaidu7751]

You only have 4 hours of 'mental energy' a day Like how you can only Sprint for 10-20 sec at max speed a day

[@ShaunHolden]

@@rajunaidu7751 not sure it’s 4 hours my friend I ran a business for 18 months before this and was working 16 hours per day. It wasn’t sustainable but I was able to do it for a short period of time. Would love to know where you found that you only have 4 hours of mental energy? That would be great to know as I love learning and have never read any literature to support that hypothesis. However, that doesn’t mean it’s not true! Please let me know look forward to learning more!

[@anne12876]

You can’t mentally work for 8 hours straight. Maybe you can but it’s not sustainable. I used to work as consultant in a technical field (engineering). The majority of my day was occupied by writing worksite specifications, technical reports and service proposals. So basically, being creative in a technical way. I was mentally exhausted at the end of my 40h week. Even though I tried to take an hour long lunch break and some coffee breaks here and there, I felt like I was always reaching the limits of my mental capacities.

[@KevinPetersdp]

@@ShaunHolden you've definitely read How to win friends and influence people

[@ShaunHolden]

@@KevinPetersdp I may or may not have had it in my hand about 2 hours ago too! 🤔 haha! How are you Kevin? How long have you followed Nathaniel for? Nice to meet you albeit virtually!

[@Ellary_Rosewood]

Funny this video popped up. Lately, I've been on a mission to try to tap back into that intense creativity I used to have as a child. I miss that little girl who used to run through the forest, barefoot, creating worlds in her head and filling them with characters who would keep me company. I miss the little girl who decided to write an entire screenplay based off of three very minor characters in her favorite folk tale. I hated that as I got older, people always told me that I needed to "Get out of my fantasy world". Those were probably the most detrimental words anyone could have ever told me. But now, at the age of 28, I'm determined to delve back into my "fantasy world". To return to the land that once welcomed me with open arms. I've already noticed that my creativity has been a lot better and I've stopped telling myself I can't do certain things. This sense of creative freedom is something I haven't felt in so many years. ❤️

[@RaulSciamarelli]

I. Creativity - 00:37 II. Art is Not a War - 03:10 III. Boredom is a Superpower - 06:19 IV. Don't Think - 07:34 V. Creativity is Like a Muscle - 09:37 VI. Developing Your Own Voice - 10:18

[@danieldey]

The book "the war of art" is not about creativity being a war, it's about the resistance and procrastination.

[@uwu-bh1fd]

Tq

[@amx9962]

THE LEGEND HERE ^^^^^^

[@sickedude4life]

How many animations can you put in one video? Nathaniel: yes

[@xLillyLx]

Can we just take a moment to appreciate the animations in this video? Amazing work, Nathan!

[@zacharyramsumair23]

Dude it was great. Do youhave any idea how he did does light animations? They were beautiful and so captivating.

[@singstudysmile]

I think he's said before on one of the Patreon streams that his brother does the animations!

[@kshitijrahatekar2147]

They are soo Good!

[@larissadepaula2383]

He lighted up man, I loved

[@TheDhammaHub]

For me, the biggest creativity boost comes from meditation. The first 5 minutes of "cooling down" mentally are just flooded with ideas. Can only recommend!

[@JustOrgil]

The little graphics and the sound design behind them... "*chefs kiss* "You're getting better and better at this Nathaniel!

[@RealJamieBarclay]

I agree, the war of art is a strange book, viewing creativity as a war is a strange and unhealthy perspective. I prefer to view it as play, I don't force anything, I just let myself drift towards what I'm naturally attracted to in the moment.

[@UnschoolingCOM]

💯 👍 "Almost all creativity requires purposeful play." ~ Abraham Maslow

[@gabriellas]

thats an amateur's approach. not conducive to an actual career in art

[@emilyg8774]

@@gabriellas amateurs approach is the play or the war?

[@ashleysouffrant1320]

It's ridiculous to think about how long I've known you and how far you've been in literally everything, storytelling, editing, visuals. Feels like it packs a perfect punch every time! Thanks NATHANIEL

[@infinityotto]

Searching for your creativity gives a whole new meaning to the quote, "Not all those who wander are lost.". 🤔

[@UnschoolingCOM]

"Life isn’t about finding yourself. Life is about creating yourself." ~ George Bernard Shaw

[@sharonoddlyenough]

'Art is oxygen and I have to breathe.' This caught me. I had to make a note of it, it's a summary of something I have felt all along.

[@yeahohright3097]

That advice about boredom is really indispensable. I have to wonder how many creatives lived their life without really creating much because of how the internet took away all their boredom. I used to be really creative in highschool, but because of a combination of mental illness and "never having to be bored", I haven't created anything in a loooong time.

[@joshvs]

Your editing skills are truly amazing! You did nothing but just sit in front of a camera and talk, but all the little edits grabbed my attention so much and made me feel intrigued. Your creative expression is a true inspiration to me!

[@tinhuyenpham3739]

I believe they’re made by his brother! Nathaniel did a Q&A with him on the “No Backup Plan” KZbin page

[@rizfree]

I used to be so obsessed with productivity that I felt like I always needed to do something. but then I learned to slow down and unwind. that was when bright ideas came💡

[@onewhoisanonymous]

I am a teacher and was given the opportunity to teach from 8 to 11:30 and end my day at 12. I felt so much better on that schedule. it gave me time to relax, get personal things done, and more time to be a better teacher.

[@ynonjacobmalca4689]

I love the fact your videos are edited to the point that I think u got a whole team of editors. It makes it so easy to keep up with what you're talking about.

[@Blackthornprod]

Incredible video! I love the advice, graphics and animations. The point about being bored really resonates with me - it reminds me of that great video you made where you went into a lonely winter cabin in the middle of the woods. No distractions, just paper, books and lots of time to get bored and be creative! Very refreshing!

[@zacharyramsumair23]

Does anyone have any idea how he did does light animations? They were beautiful and so captivating.

[@Xanderex98]

@@zacharyramsumair23 He has a Brother that does animations

[@zacharyramsumair23]

@@Xanderex98 thanks so much. You are godsent

[@saadzainnn]

'eternally unsatisfied' is such a perspective shift, absolutely back it

[@FlorianCoeman]

My man, every time the edits blow my mind with how good they are, the next video takes it to ANOTHER level. You wizard.

[@trentdoyle7121]

My favorite part of your clips is when you voice over your philosophical thoughts over visuals of your adventures, it’s just stunning to watch.

[@_aly_cat]

this video made me tear up a bit. i recently discovered I have ADHD and for so many years I had no idea and thought something was horribly wrong with me and I kept pushing back against it. Now that I'm in therapy, and I know and I have support I've been working with it rather than against it. I have immense creativity but it can't flow unless I take care of myself. So daily I probably only spend 2-4 hours in creativity and the rest is for self care, sleeping enough, eating healthy, exercising, being bored, going on walks, watching my shows/movies that inspire me. YOU GET IT HAHA. But this video made me feel seen. So many people around me work for 12 hours a day making videos and when I do that my creativity plummets but now I can see things clearer, I know I am and what I want out of my videos and creativity and it just feels SO MUCH BETTER and more fun. And theres no rules. I create more now rather than feeling forced to keep up with the speed of it all. So thank you for making this. I think it will resonate with so many people.

[@_aly_cat]

ALSO- I am really stoked to buy that hat haha :)

[@the_infinity_channel]

This video is like I am hearing my first mentor. Word to word. I need to remind myself again. I am an designer and I work in a lot of fields. I am trying to get on new step working 24/7 and move out of the state and shift a lot of things and I found this advice very pure very good and trustful for all kind of artist. Thank you, my soul jut get back and I really enjoyed when you said art is like oxygen I need to breath it got me so deep. It is meaning of my life and I don't wanna to think where it will take me.

[@Samonajourney]

The coincidence though! You had to post this just when I needed it! 😌

[@joelstephenson8017]

I feel like the abundance of choice is what is crippling me. And although I know what to do, it's hard to push against the grain.

[@TheGamingTubies]

creativity is like a river flowing down the tumultuous terrain of a mountainous labyrinth of emotion

[@karifishc3376]

this is more like " find your people in the same community". it hits me again by the idea of creativity. You are such a great story teller that I wish I could become. thank you for sharing.

[@desertdweller8520]

I am 66 years old and on the cusp of retiring. I find your videos unique and inspiring. I want to go back to creating and need to find my voice. I am learning from you. Keep going!

[@RealJamieBarclay]

Wow, I'm literally watching this in the middle of editing a project and worrying that I should just keep pushing through for 8 hours straight. Creativity really does come naturally in-between breaks and recharging, not long gruelling hours as if you're working a 9-5 job.

[@misang3]

Damn just 1:57 into the video and I paused to say how much I appreciate the light you give out. It's like i can sense its not just words and nice videos, but you're really excited about life and sharing what you learn

[@_rileyreign]

“Art is not a war” got me - would love to see you do a whole video on that concept & your perspective

[@achelleonard]

The editing just makes watching this video more satisfying

[@ryanmckenzie5918]

"Get enough sleep." Ironically, I'm watching this after midnight when I need to get up at 6am tomorrow. Good stuff! I'm thinking about going for my MFA, and this was the pep talk I needed. Thanks, Nathaniel.

[@jaemontanez988]

Whoa, these animations are next level! Very insightful as always, and timely!

[@WhatsernameToast]

"Art is oxygen and I have to breathe." is my most favourite quote now.

[@rainakreeger]

The animations felt like from a disney movie - bright, fun, cool, captivating! Awesome video quality and loved all the points you made, definitely learned some new things about creativity!

[@ep4500]

Creativity is the power of feeling and is never a straight path it takes streets, mountains, and deserts to find the creative voice.

[@sadikazam]

The production quality is on the next level And the sound design OMG 😱 P.S it was already amazing before 😅

[@smoupnhoize]

100% this. So many little details. Very, dare I say it, creative?

[@zacharyramsumair23]

Does anyone have any idea how he did does light animations? They were beautiful and so captivating.

[@YaritzaBetancourt]

So happy you're talking about this, because now in days people think creativity is a viral dance on Tiktok...

[@pleasureofcooking5219]

I lied the idea of creativity is not linear with number of working hours, I always believe in this but you explain it very well. Thank you Nathan for your inspiring videos and subjects

[@UnschoolingCOM]

"The question is whether or not you choose to disturb the world around you, or if you choose to let it go on as if you had never arrived." ~ Ann Patchett, [Novelist]

[@andreizavorodnic5009]

I just finished editing one of my first videos and the itching feeling you talked about it's really there. Right before starting watching your video I tried to understand how I feel because I've never felt that and you gave me a lot of clarity and a big smile! Also I agree with you. Art is not a war, art is peace of mind.

[@Amazementpark]

I usually don't leave commons, but I can't stop myself today saying, ' you are awesome. I agree with you 100%.'

[@Adam_00001]

This has to be my most favorite of your videos Nate! I loved your quote: “Art is oxygen and I HAVE to breathe.” I felt so inspired and reassured by the ideas and concepts you shared about how to be creative. Totally added to my favorites playlist for future use. Thank you! Also i would love to buy some new merch, congrats!!!

[@angeliquemechel]

I'm an artist and while to an outsider it might look like I paint very little from day to day, people don't see that I am actually constantly working. Paintings cannot be forced. So a lot of my work is to be open, listen and look. But because I love what I do, it rarely feels like work.

[@danielsparks05]

As someone who has worked for myself for over 10 years in creative industries (writing and investing), I couldn't agree more with all of these ideas. Nathaniel, you're appealing to a fast-growing target market. There are tons of us out here that are trying to balance getting stuff done and managing ourselves. These are all great ideas. Thank you!

[@Adam_00001]

I love his point about how to listen and let out hardware AKA our mind/body to act as the vessels for our interpretation of our own creativity, pure genius. I love Nate’s channel!

[@zacharyramsumair23]

Does anyone have any idea how he did does light animations? They were beautiful and so captivating.

[@franistart]

I think it's also important to take into consideration what systemic forces might be bogging you down. If you have those forces you can't self-care yourself out of them as an individual. Understanding this can help with frustration.

[@monojoy4270]

I liked the part a lot where you said about getting enough sleep and not thinking too much cause that doesn't lead us anywhere. Whenever I get stuck I watch your videos and everytime I do that I can feel myself growing and becoming my best self. I recently started bullet journaling and that has helped me a lot to learn about myself and my intention for life. Thank you. Amor fati.

[@teresagrafalskroger9177]

I have to confess, I'm NOT really very creative... at least not in an "artistic" way. I was drawn to this vid because I was hoping to steal a few tidbits to help me to think more creatively and maybe BECOME more creative. What I have come to appreciate about you is that (while you are extremely creative) you are willing to put yourself out there... to be open and vulnerable. And THAT (plus really great filmmaking) is what keeps me coming back. That's what I really want to bring to my own posts - a sense of authenticity. Some really good camera skills would be nice also, but mainly it is being able to connect with others in a totally real and relatable way, that makes all the difference. Thank you for continuing to do YOU!! Love the merch also!

[@ReubenClarke]

Really love this shift in direction when compared to your old videos. It seems like you're flowing with life now rather than trying to force it.

[@aohamer]

"Art is oxygen and I need to breathe" 👏🏾 Soooo many gems dropped in this video. It was also beautiful to watch. Your editing style is amazing, timeless, and clean 🌠 Congrats on the merch launch, I love the Seek Discomfort crew 💕 P.S. My husband swears by Huel. I thought it was gross until I tried the peanut butter flavor 😉 Keep shining 👑

[@MiaMakesThings]

This man makes the sponsoring section into a masterpiece HOW?

[@byshagi]

solid take . being creative is exhausting , and many don't seem to care or value it

[@tessascherphof1019]

Agree 100%! We are all magical creators and each time we finish a project, an authentic piece of ourselves is set free ✨

[@KishanthJavegar]

How does your production quality keep getting better and better in every video?! Damn! Thank you for this, your points are really invaluable for a new creator like me! 😇🙏🏽

[@zacharyramsumair23]

Does anyone have any idea how he did does light animations? They were beautiful and so captivating.

[@hiteshs6211]

This goes into my "life changing" videos playlist

[@ronhendricks4130]

All great advice! One thing I would add is how Robert Lax (Poet, mystic....) approached problems, HE SLOWED DOWN AND HE WAITED. You just can't rush things as much as we all want to. Thanks for sharing what you have learned over the years, at 69 I am just starting to understand these things!

[@thechancellor-]

To the *incredible person* that's seeing this, I wish you all the best in life❤ don't over blame yourself, accept things and go forward. Don't let others define what “success” is for you. Get up, learn the skills needed and get after it, all the keys to a happy life is in your hands. Keep pushing.

[@donnecheli2721]

I love the how you had the hat on, but didn’t say anything until the end.. it made me laugh to myself, and I think just that small part of your well crafted video shows why I keep watching your videos.

[@DavidGrilli]

I've been a Huel drinker for over 5 years, and this is the first time I see someone sponsored by them. I'm very happy it's you :D

[@jameslongworth7352]

Funny, this morning I wrote a script for a video about how I'm feeling creatively uninspired for many of the reasons you mentioned. Nice video dude.

[@NationalParkDiaries]

As a part time creator, I've had to find ways to stay productive while avoiding burnout. It can be tough sometimes. You try and balance work, family, and video making and it can be hard. But the more I create, the more I find that little breaks and smaller chunks of work fit better than trying to force everything all at one time. My production process is pretty long and it can be frustrating at times to feel like I need to do more, but it almost always benefits me to rest, so that advice resonated with me and validated something I was already feeling. Thanks for another great video!

[@ahsanshahzad992]

I agree with the opinion that boredom is a key to creativity and it completely makes sense. I just love watching your videos, these videos are not just full of information but also provide messages for practical life.

[@elizabethmacmasternorris8232]

This is such an inspiring video! One of my goals this year is to practice creativity for the sake of creativity. Without realizing it I’ve found myself so stuck on being productive that I’ve ignored my NEED for creativity. I teach my kids there’s no need to be perfect at what you’re doing in order to enjoy it but I rarely give myself that same grace. I see more happiness ahead this year. :)

[@lubhad4441]

It's scientifically proven that Nathaniel Drews videos boost creativity too.

[@coleneilson7703]

Thank you so much! All of this was amazing!

[@_stevenfoster]

Art is oxygen, and I have to breathe... such a good line man. Reminds me of something Jerry Seinfeld once said when asked what his favorite joke was. "The joke that gets me to the next joke. Like what is your favorite breath? the one that gets me to the next breath" Best to you man. One of these days hopefully our time in Mexico City will line up and hope to meet you on that day!

[@SoulsticeHiphopbeats]

Thank you so much for this man. I’ve been feeling so burnt out because I’ve been working on my full time job as well as my side business and I’ve never given my time to relax since I feel like I’m wasting time when I’m just hanging out so I’d never do it. After haveing overwhelming anxiety and depression I’ve decided to let myself just take a day off to just relax and and do nothing. Thanks a lot for this man this video was a gem!

[@jJust_NO_]

this gives me a dopamine boost.. my people.. i love words... i love ideas

[@DarioKesegiG0CA]

Editing and animations were next level Loved the video, you had some great points 😀 I'm going to have to rethink my approach with creating I wished you expanded more with 5th point, developing your own voice. There are not that many videos on this topic How to find your uniqueness, and stand out among other creators

[@jmurillo7922]

I have not finished the video but maybe he already said this. I believe that we find our own voice through exploration and knowing ourselves. Not forcing create a certain style but allowing it to just be. I hope that makes sense.

[@zacharyramsumair23]

Does anyone have any idea how he did does light animations? They were beautiful and so captivating.

[@cosythe1st]

@@zacharyramsumair23 I have been wondering the same, I assume he creates them himself

[@zacharyramsumair23]

@@cosythe1st I think its an after effect add on called saber. theres a video by soundduck films that does icons with it. check it out

[@NoxSoSubtle]

Thank you so much for mentioning The War of Art! I received it as a gift from a friend and I felt the exact same way about creativity and how I work as a creative. This was really reassuring.

[@LaytonObserves]

The editing in this video is next level.

[@jeanine9]

I feel like you are talking to me. I just had an argument with an introverted person telling me to tone it down. He was also telling me what he thought I needed to do for my youtube channel. People love to tell what they think when they aren’t willing to take risk and out themselves out there. They you so much for doing this video.

[@Stemist]

I've been watching your videos for a while. I've found you to be one of my most genuine creators on KZbin. I really appreciate that you are adding further evidence to the idea that we are all inherently valuable just by existing, and that peace can be found when we realize this. Thank you for your work, Nathaniel.

[@DaveSy]

I would take a course specifically on your VFX workflow. Unbelievable what you're able to do with augmenting your A-roll.

[@goingwalkaboutnow]

I agree with everything you said. I really like the creativity as a muscle that needs to be worked out analogy. I’m 63 and I am amazed at your thoughtful reflections on life!

[@wesleyhargon]

That bit of boredom and not thinking sealed it for me. Great thoughts Nathaniel!

[@eliasbrown8673]

So stoked for the merch!

[@Ducky_logan]

I’m in my mid 30’s. Still finding myself. Your videos to be so comforting.

[@Ducky_logan]

Omg!!! Ditto & Dragonite. Okay, I’m now a super fan!

[@alexpantazi5153]

I really enjoyed many of these points particularly how you reject the whole idea of trying to "put in hours" when trying to be creative. Subtle point, but I also really appreciate that for the advertisement, you had a countdown clock. This gesture shows that you respect people's time over your own short-term profits or KZbin statistics. Thank you, Nathaniel

[@connorstrang9290]

Really enjoyed the editing in this video. Great work!

[@DerekBearzi]

Loved the message and animation of all the graphs. Especially the part with time worked not equating to creative output, that really hit home for me.

[@JonJosephKuhn]

You have to make yourself work to get creative task achieved, but time spent doesn’t translate to creative value. If it isn’t perfectly clear I’m not disagreeing I’m just further expounding on this thought.

[@DerekBearzi]

@@JonJosephKuhn whats up my brotha!

[@JonJosephKuhn]

@@DerekBearzi yo brother!

[@zacharyramsumair23]

Does anyone have any idea how he did does light animations? They were beautiful and so captivating.

[@soleus333]

Hat tip on the really effective use of graphic elements, coupled with sound design, to amplify the points you were saying. Rather than being distracting, they added to the experience, and in a broader sense, were a literal example of being creative. And as for your points, I’m fully agreed. Trying to push through to get to your destination isn’t an effective way to go. Self care is an essential practice to live an effective, enjoyable life.

[@mayaron]

Wow this video is on another level, the message, the animation and practically everything else, it’s incredible! I agree that creativity is just trying everything and not thinking too much, and I feel like it’s something I still need to work on (while sleeping and taking breaks are my creativity’s life saviors here). Great video, I really needed that.

[@shvm758]

Incredible video, thanks for being honest and open ❤️

[@sonakshtholia2073]

The production and editing of this video! Absolutely amazing💯

[@YaqutaBootwala]

I absolutely love how engaging and well done the editing is!

[@emmabrdly]

Amazing as always Nathaniel :) The merch looks amazing!

[@energyhealing11]

To unwind, being in nature and let yourself just be is part of the process of letting inspiration hit you and than you put it out 🌈

[@karynstudiosloane-ceramics436]

this was a beautiful video, nathaniel :) thanks for sharing with us!

[@mmarrotte101]

Nathaniel, absolutely right there with you on the entirety of the content in this video. Thanks for putting this out there, SO many more people need to understand these truths. Also, love the dope animations as always!

[@beardedpanda5086]

That’s the problem with the regular work week. You’re stuck in an office and expect Ito be productive the whole 8 hour day. It doesn’t work like that. I hit walls and go for walks go talk to people, maybe nap or play with my dogs when working from home. It helps so much especially when I need to be creative and inventive.

[@joannasliwa248]

I love the edit of this video!

[@rubinagomes2950]

The BEST video I have seen on Creativity!!! ❤️❤️❤️ Thank you, Nathaniel!

[@yashjhaveri2173]

Absolute 🔥🔥🔥 Love the animations and the editing 💯

[@larkfly9273]

The moment you put a timer on the sponsored segment I wanted to watch it - just because I had a choice. This is how the human mind works.

[@Miikkaall]

This video is so perfect. Thank you.

[@kungaRangrig]

A great video to start the week. Always inspiring.❤

[@Bordigioni]

El vídeo que necesitaba, en el momento justo. Gracias Nath!

[@inglizlan]

Awesome video, man. Appreciate that.

[@enricoengelbrecht1351]

I enjoyed this so much! thanks Nathaniel