Discomfort Can Lead To Creativity

Are you chugging through the same old grind day in and day out. Get out of bed the same time each morning, have the same breakfast, put on our “uniform” and take the same route to the same job to do the same thing as yesterday. Not only is this what life looks like for a lot of people, it's what many people think life is supposed to look like. No wonder we keep tackling problems the same way expecting different results.

You need color in your life – and maybe even a little chaos – for creativity to breed.

Check out this TED video featuring fashion designer Isaac Mizrahi. Until 2007, Mizrahi had a lucrative deal with Target; now he is creative director for the revamped Liz Claiborne. In other words, this guy is hot stuff. But, notice that there is no BIG POINT to his presentation. Instead, he offers a free flow of thoughts and actions. He is easily bored and passionately active. He does a little of everything, from a cabaret act, to a tv show, to designing clothing and costumes. His inspiration comes from everywhere. And, if you're a fan of bullet points, his presentation will most likely annoy you.

Annoying or not, Mizrahi helps us remember that we are changed and challenged by the world around us and by every experience we have – from something as simple as a ripped t-shirt on a passer-by to the tastes we experience for the very first time. You've heard the expression that variety is the spice of life? It's true. Variety keeps you on your toes. It produces new ideas, adventurous paths, and inspirational relationships. 

For some people getting stuck in a rut seems like a lifetime achievement. Mizrahi isn't stuck in a rut for more than about 30 seconds. As one commenter says: He doesn't think outside the box – he LIVES outside the box. We would add: He doesn't even know what a box is.

If you haven’t already, start working playfully. Dare to follow that guy down the street because you like his shoes – and ask him if you can take a picture of them. You never know where that encounter might lead. Try a new restaurant for dinner tonight and get to know your waiter through his descriptions of the food you order. Have a conversation with somebody from another department in your organization today looking for both the common points of interest and the diversity that makes us rich. Rearrange your office space or cubicle and put up new pictures, favorite quotes, and add a toy or two. If you're the boss, break the rule that says no personal stuff in the work space and encourage your people to brighten up their area with pictures from home; then host a show and tell over pizza in the lunchroom tomorrow. Do something random. Do something ridiculous. Do whatever it takes, frankly, for you to get out of the rut you're in and stay out.

"As little comfort as possible is a good thing." - Issac Mizrahi

 

 Hey church leaders:

You might want to check out our booklet called 19 Or More Ideas For Working Playfully. It's part of our Renewable Practices for Faith-Based Groups series!