IF YOU WANT TO CREATE, COLLABORATE
There is no work of art created in isolation. Every artistic work ever created by a group or individual was inspired by relationships, culture , systems, people, scripture, emotion and life itself . Even the tools used to express ourselves are not of our own invention. Some of my favourite artists are constantly learning from experienced creatives in their field. Others get their inspiration from artists that are their opposites innovative creations. In the simplest terms, if you want to inspire, be inspired too.
One thing I have appreciated about the creative process is the need for collaboration. Our egos and pride may say that we don't need anyone to create art but a sincere creative will tell you that their best work came from a conversation, experience or communication that impacted them at a deeper level than when they tried to have ideas on their own. Here are a few important skills that collaboration brings.
COLLABORATION INCREASES COMMUNICATION
Talking to yourself is fun, but if you want concrete and constructive criticism, talk to other people. Be intentional and selective with whom you share your work with. Constant commenders will not help you grow and naysayers will always discourage and drain you. Have a trusted friend, mentor, mentee, teacher or professional look at your work and listen to their advice. You are not obligated to take all of it, but they may offer a viewpoint that can expand your work. Brainstorming also shows you how other people think, which increases patience and understanding.
If you are a team leader or part of a team, then you know clear communication increases efficiency and productivity. Hierarchy will never trump synergy. It is more important to have a strong, cohesive team than a large group of people who tolerate each other for a paycheck. I am part of the organizing team of WAFE, and we have learned that without communicating our vision and mission, we would not reach the standard we strive for. Letting people into your creative process may feel invasive and uncomfortable, but it's a guaranteed way of producing and being the best.
COLLABORATION INCREASES CONSISTENCY
Unless you are some self-motivation maven, having the drive to achieve your goals and projects is not something that comes easily for most people. Collaborators encourage as much as they keep you accountable. We often mistake accountability for judgement, but the key difference between the two is how theyare communicated . Judgement feels harsh and hurtful, while accountability is truth spoken in love.
When you work with other people or even ask for opinions on yourwork, you get to stay true to your vision and style. I have a friend who is a professional content creator and visual artist but once in a while he will ask for people's opinions on his work to make sure he is not imitating his inspirators while still maintaining the quality and uniqueness of his work.
COLLABORATION FOSTERS CHALLENGE
The good news is that no one can think like you and the bad news is that no one can think like you. When you work with other people, you and your work change for the better. Even if you are not talking to other people, watching videos and reading books on your area of interest can also help you think more creatively.
When you collaborate, problem solving, quickthinking and discipline develop faster than when you try to build these skills on your own.
EXTRA TIPS
- Always take notes. The human brain is a supercomputer, but it's just as flawed as you are, take notes on your phone or with a pen so you don't forget key information.
- Learn to listen. Give yourself a break and let other people lead conversations, you learn so much more than when you are someone who only listens to respond.
- Asking for help is not a sign of weakness. As experienced as you may think you are, there is so much you can always learn. Be willing to ask for help so you can become better.
How will you be collaborating this year? Let me knowin the comments below!
One thing I have appreciated about the creative process is the need for collaboration. Our egos and pride may say that we don't need anyone to create art but a sincere creative will tell you that their best work came from a conversation, experience or communication that impacted them at a deeper level than when they tried to have ideas on their own. Here are a few important skills that collaboration brings.
COLLABORATION INCREASES COMMUNICATION
Talking to yourself is fun, but if you want concrete and constructive criticism, talk to other people. Be intentional and selective with whom you share your work with. Constant commenders will not help you grow and naysayers will always discourage and drain you. Have a trusted friend, mentor, mentee, teacher or professional look at your work and listen to their advice. You are not obligated to take all of it, but they may offer a viewpoint that can expand your work. Brainstorming also shows you how other people think, which increases patience and understanding.
If you are a team leader or part of a team, then you know clear communication increases efficiency and productivity. Hierarchy will never trump synergy. It is more important to have a strong, cohesive team than a large group of people who tolerate each other for a paycheck. I am part of the organizing team of WAFE, and we have learned that without communicating our vision and mission, we would not reach the standard we strive for. Letting people into your creative process may feel invasive and uncomfortable, but it's a guaranteed way of producing and being the best.
COLLABORATION INCREASES CONSISTENCY
Unless you are some self-motivation maven, having the drive to achieve your goals and projects is not something that comes easily for most people. Collaborators encourage as much as they keep you accountable. We often mistake accountability for judgement, but the key difference between the two is how they
When you work with other people or even ask for opinions on your
COLLABORATION FOSTERS CHALLENGE
The good news is that no one can think like you and the bad news is that no one can think like you. When you work with other people, you and your work change for the better. Even if you are not talking to other people, watching videos and reading books on your area of interest can also help you think more creatively.
When you collaborate, problem solving, quick
EXTRA TIPS
- Always take notes. The human brain is a supercomputer, but it's just as flawed as you are, take notes on your phone or with a pen so you don't forget key information.
- Learn to listen. Give yourself a break and let other people lead conversations, you learn so much more than when you are someone who only listens to respond.
- Asking for help is not a sign of weakness. As experienced as you may think you are, there is so much you can always learn. Be willing to ask for help so you can become better.
How will you be collaborating this year? Let me know
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