The Value of Procrastination in the Creative Process

black pencil on white paper

Many often say that the journey, rather than the destination, truly matters. This perspective holds significant truth, especially when considering procrastination. Procrastination involves delaying decisions and extending the moment before taking action. Crucially, it’s important not to confuse procrastination with having an end goal. They are unrelated concepts.

Procrastination as a Creative Tool

Procrastination can serve as a valuable mechanism in the creative process. By delaying decisions, you open yourself up to a range of ideas and allow your creativity to flourish. This unstructured time is crucial for letting your thoughts roam freely and for fostering artistic inspiration. Creative processes are abstract and often hard to document methodically.

The Distinction Between Output and Destination

Output is what you create after allowing yourself the space to explore ideas. The destination or end goal should not be linked with procrastination. Your output—whether a sculpture, painting, or any other artistic work—emerges from the freedom you grant yourself to think and innovate.

Avoid Misinterpreting Procrastination

It’s crucial not to view procrastination as an excuse to do nothing. It isn’t about idleness but about giving your mind the freedom to generate and refine ideas. Misunderstanding this can lead to feelings of guilt, given societal expectations around constant productivity. Embracing procrastination constructively can lead to meaningful artistic outputs.

Social Constructs and Procrastination

The modern world often promotes a 24/7 mentality, where constant activity and availability are the norms. Within this context, procrastination is frequently seen negatively. However, recognising the value of delayed decision-making can lead to more thoughtful and innovative outputs, defying common societal pressures.

Procrastination and Creative Liberation

Procrastination offers a unique opportunity for creative liberation. It allows artists and creatives to engage with ideas without the immediate pressure of execution. This mental freedom is essential for producing work that truly reflects one’s creativity and vision, rather than conforming to rigid timelines or expectations.

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