We Are Creators

Creators are not just traditional artists and creatives who work in the creative industries.

Being a Creator is so much more than that…

My Definition of a ‘Creator’

Anyone who wants to create something that they would like to exist in the world… that has never existed before.

Anyone who is drawn to create work that matters for the betterment or enjoyment of others… Those who are drawn to create “art” in the world.

Art is work that matters.

I love Seth Godin’s definition of “art” and what it means to be an artist. This is what he says about people who create art:

Artists are leaders.

Because art makes something new, something that might not work, something that people didn’t expect.

Art has nothing to do with painting. It has nothing to do with a sculpture.

Art is a human act that we do with generosity. It’s the act of doing something that might not work.

Artists always see possibilities.

Because if it’s not possible, then we can’t even try.

Once we know it’s possible that we can make something better, and that we can contribute in some way… then we got a shot at making things better.

The time when art is needed the most is when so many people have lost possibility.

When they’ve lost the feeling of possibility…

When they’re stuck in the slog…

That’s when artists show up and say “Here, I made this”.

The act to say “Here, I made this” is so fraught, courageous and powerful.

Each one of us is an artist because art has nothing to do with talent and everything to do with choosing to have a skill and deciding to go on a journey to make things better.

My definition of a Creator is anyone who chooses to:

  • Create a life where they don’t have to follow a manual
  • Create work they’re proud of
  • Create work that matters to the people they serve (LOVE enough to tell others about and VALUE enough to pay for)
  • Earn a living doing what they create for others

What does it mean to be a Creator?

Being a Creator is a mindset.

It means you don’t allow others to put you in a box — you don’t allow others to define you. You define yourself.

It’s about taking back your authority and allow yourself to dream.

It’s being brave enough to believe in yourself, follow your inner compass to live the way you want.

It’s about having courage to lean into the unknown.

It’s a mindset of taking control, taking ownership and taking full responsibility for your life.

Creators choose to create their own reality and create their own future.

Being a Creator is a choice.

What it means to me…

1. Choosing to step into self leadership.

It’s not just about saying “I’m going to create this website, this article, this song or this business.”

It’s also about saying “I’m going to create this outcome in this relationship, in this conversation, in this opportunity and in this circumstance.”

It’s ultimately about creating the results you want for yourself and for others you care about.

2. Choosing to create whether I feel inspired or not.

Waiting for inspiration is for amateurs, pros just show up and get to work.

3. Committing to leveling up

It’s not just about expanding my own perspective, learning a craft or honing my skills in different disciplines I choose to play in…

It’s about learning about myself, deepening my connection to myself and connecting to the contributions I want to create in the world.

4. Embracing the messy creative process

Creativity is about creating something out of nothing.

A process of transformation that never happens smoothly in a straight line… whether you’re creating articles, podcasts, videos, art, spreadsheets, code, experiences or businesses.

The creative process is directly tied to your ability to execute on your ideas. Your ability to take action towards your goals, vision and dreams and bring them to life.

Execution in any line of work is pretty darn important if you ask me.

The more you create things and break things, the better you become.

Anyone can choose to become a Creator.

—Jen

P.S.

Here’s a little inspiration to help you level up: