Tradition vs Creativity?
Tradition. Creativity.
You don’t often see those words together unless someone is talking about a family or institution having a “tradition of creativity.” In fact, most of us probably think of tradition and creativity being almost opposites. I have to wonder if they really are, or if there’s a different relationship between them.
Traditional Tradition
When it comes to creativity, tradition is commonly believed to be a blocker. We’re told to “think outside of the box” and “break the mold.” Tradition is thought to limit our thinking and keep us from reaching our creative potential. If you think about it though, that concept is itself a “traditional” view of tradition.
Creative Tradition
What would a more creative view of tradition be, at least in regard to creativity itself? How can we use tradition to encourage and expand our creativity?
- Use traditional as a base to build on, a foundation for something new
- Use traditional works to inspire your efforts
- Use tradition as guidelines for some of your creative efforts
- Look at tradition and interpret tradition from an untraditional angle
“That’s the Way it’s Done”
Tradition does represent the way things have been done in the past, but it can be as much inspiration as limitation. Look at the way it has always been done and come up with a new way to do it. Anytime you hear or think “that’s the way its done” ask yourself why? Ask if there’s another way it could be done. Ask “What if?” Let tradition be a springboard for your creativity.
You just might be surprised where it takes you.
Tags:Getting Inspired Why Be Creative?
