10 traits of creatively 'successful' people

This newsletter is subjective. And this list is not exhaustive.

These are just some ideas based on my own experience up until this point in time.

These are 10 core traits and habits I see in creatively happy, successful and stoked people.

These are the things I try to practice everyday (more or less). And when I do embody these traits, I create better.

1. Skill-building

Creatively successful people are good at what they do. They’re constantly honing their craft — whatever that thing is.

Music, art, photography, writing, cooking…all of these domains require skills and it never ends.

To be the most artistic version of yourself, you can never stop learning. Because a skill deficit is a creative bottleneck.

2. Continues to show up

Creativity requires your consistent participation.

Showing up every once in a while will give you every-once-in-a-while results. As hard as it is sometimes, it’s necessary to push through motivation droughts.

Recognize burnout, but practice discipline.

3. Has soft skills too

Creativity does better with soft skills.

Here are some of my favorites I like to practice:

• Adaptability

• Curiosity

• Problem-solving

• Emotional intelligence

4. Is patient

I suppose this could be another soft skill. But patience is needed for creativity (not always, but it helps).

I spent a year writing a song everyday, and I realized one downside to this challenge was I rushed through the songwriting process.

I didn’t let ideas fully marinate. I didn’t add extra nuances or details and I wasn’t patient with the creative process.

So stay calm — which is part of my whole carefree framework, I suppose.

5. Is detailed

The devil in in the details — but so is the magic.

Subtleties in art are what make you stand out. It’s not always the most obvious things that make something great.

It’s often the stuff that’s almost unnoticed (unless you took it away). Like the background of a scene or the sound design in a film.

It’s easy to miss, until it’s gone. Great creativity loves the details.

6. Knows how + when to break the ‘rules’

Templates and formulas have their place. But knowing when, where and how to bend or break those rules is requires for creative exploration.

So don’t be afraid to go against the grain — nay, lean into it.

7. Follows their intuition

Intuition is a creative tool. It’s a skill learning how to listen to your inner voice.

It requires ignoring the outside noises and centering yourself into the present moment. I like to get rid of distractions, do regular social detoxes and practice creative flow state.

8. Is inspired (not envious)

Comparison and envy are the thieves of joy. Great creativity is when you’re inspired by other artists and work (not jealous).

Stay aware of this one — it’s sneaky.

9. Is intentional

I have a bad habit of writing music very willy-nilly. I never have a theme, purpose or story. The song name reflects nothing and there’s often zero intention.

I just liked the melody.

Lately though, I’ve been adding more intention to things. For example, I’m working on a series of new songs about my relationship with the ether and what it sounds like when I connect with the universe/energy/etc.

I’m calling ‘subatomic’ (at least, that’s the first song’s name).

Deep. I know.

But it’s giving my music a clear direction and sound. I find myself being more excited about it and it’s sounding more creative in many ways.

So thank you, intention.

10. Knows + owns their authenticity

Knowing and owning your quirks if your creative superpower.

I don’t need to say much more about that. Just prioritize this (it’s your magic, your soul, your umami — let it out!).

If you want more reading, here’s how I practice my authenticity.

Alright, thanks for reading this week!

Later ✌️