Creation has a mindset. It is instinctive. It is in all of us, and that’s why we live in civilizations. We’ve created new ways, new things.
People often mistake the emotional rewards of consumption with creation. When people are consuming they’re living vicariously. We replace the instinct to create, with consumption. This world rewards creators. Business is about creating, which is why it can be rewarding. Conversely, most people associate success with consumption. Consumption is an illusion we’ve made or done something useful. It’s a shortcut. Hence, conspicuous consumption often exudes a sense emptiness.
Is this why we see so many balanced and satisfied craftsman, farmers and artists? People creating things have a sense of contentment. A sense of self reliance. Even if what they are creating is a simple vegetable patch which feeds their family.
It’s because the true rewards in life come from the act of creation. Consumption is a poor substitute. Create something.
In relation to excessive consumption, I like the old Chinese saying :
We never buy more than we need
We never need more than we use
We never use more than it takes to get by
Til we learn to need less.
or as Plato said ” In order to seek one’s own direction, one must simplify the mechanics of ordinary, everyday life”
we certainly are living in an era of excess consumption, the more you buy the better you feel [wrong]. love your blog post, it makes a simple and important point.
Or Henry David said, “Beware of any activity that requires new clothes”. Come check out my “Compact” blog. Great post.
Good post. I think we’re born to create.
absolutely agree with u 🙂
I Love this post.
The best example is the creation of life 🙂
knowing you created another being just gives you a feeling of awe and a sense of fulfillment….