Cultivating spontaneity can lead to creative breakthroughs from "summary" of Trying Not to Try by Edward Slingerland
The idea that cultivating spontaneity can lead to creative breakthroughs is a central theme in "Trying Not to Try". Slingerland argues that by letting go of our conscious selves and allowing our natural instincts to guide us, we can tap into a deeper well of creativity. This concept challenges the traditional view that creativity is the result of hard work and deliberate effort. Instead, Slingerland suggests that true creativity arises when we are able to quiet the mind and access the unconscious. By embracing spontaneity, we open ourselves up to new possibilities and fresh ideas that may not have emerged through conscious thought alone. This process requires a certain level of trust in ourselves and in the creative process. It involves letting go of our need to control every aspect of our work and instead allowing inspiration to flow freely. This can be a challenging concept for many people, especially those who are used to relying on logic and reason to solve problems. Slingerland draws on ancient Chinese philosophy to support his argument, particularly the teachings of Confucius and Laozi. Both philosophers believed in the power of spontaneity and the importance of living in harmony with the natural world. They saw creativity as a natural extension of this harmony, arising when we are able to let go of our ego and connect with something greater than ourselves. In modern society, we often place a high value on productivity and efficiency, which can lead to a stifling of creativity. We are constantly bombarded with distractions and obligations that make it difficult to find the time and space for true inspiration to strike. By cultivating spontaneity, we can break free from these constraints and access a more authentic form of creativity.- Slingerland's exploration of the connection between spontaneity and creativity offers a fresh perspective on how we can unlock our full potential as creative beings. By letting go of our need for control and embracing the unknown, we can open ourselves up to a world of possibilities that we may never have imagined.
