A common misconception is that creativity is something you are either born with or you aren’t. Many people believe that either you are a naturally talented writer or you aren’t, either you are an innately gifted artist or you aren’t. This myth has discouraged many people from pursuing their interests in creative writing, art, music and other artistic pursuits, but it’s not true.
Like any other skill, creativity can be developed and enhanced with the right kind of practice. These three books look more closely at the art and the science behind imagination and creative arts. Pick one up as inspiration for your own journaling practice!
3 Books to Strengthen Your Creative Writing
1. Imagine: How Creativity Works by Jonah Lehrer
“This book is the single best attempt I've ever read (and I've read many) to demystify human creativity. To puncture the age-old mysteries: how do insights happen? How can I make them happen more?” - Jad Abumrad, founder and co-host of public radio show Radiolab
Science journalist Jonah Lehrer’s new book is a quest to answer the question, “How does creativity emerge?” Lehrer draws from neurological and sociological research and uses case studies from a wide array of sources, including Bob Dylan, Pixar animators and Silicon Valley entrepreneurs to show the surprising and fascinating ways creativity works. It’s not a self-help book, but it contains ideas and principles that can help you with your own creative writing and journaling.
2. Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can’t Stop Talking by Susan Cain
“Studies suggest that many of the most creative people are introverts, and this is partly because of their capacity for quiet. Introverts are careful, reflective thinkers who can tolerate the solitude that idea-generation requires. On the other hand, implementing good ideas requires cooperation, and introverts are more likely to prefer cooperative environments, while extroverts favor competitive ones.” - Susan Cain
In a world where extroverts seem to get the most attention, Susan Cain’s book is a refreshing take on the contributions and strengths of the introverts among us. At least one-third of people are introverts; they are often labeled “quiet” or “shy” because they often prefer listening to speaking and working independently to team brainstorming. Cain argues that our culture undervalues introverts, who have enormous capacity for creativity, innovation and leadership, and she gives examples from the worlds of art, business, technology and religion. This book builds a solid case for the value of quiet, reflection and introspection (all benefits of journaling).
3. Steal Like an Artist: 10 Things Nobody Told You About Being Creative by Austin Kleon
"Austin Kleon is positively one of the most interesting people on the Internet... Kleon makes an articulate and compelling case for combinatorial creativity and the role of remix in the idea economy."- The Atlantic
Austin Kleon, a young writer and artist, was invited to speak to a group of college students, and he centered his speech around the 10 things he wished he had known starting out. His talk went viral, and he expanded his ideas in this book. Kleon’s opinion is, “Creativity is not magic. Creativity is for everyone.” He advocates embracing the influence of others, following your interests and remixing what you discover to make it your own.
What books have you read that have influenced your journaling or creative writing? Share your suggestions in the comments.
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