<h4 data-block-key="99h88">&quot;Wealth is not an absolute. It is relative to desire. Every time we yearn for something we cannot afford, we grow poorer, whatever our resources. And every time we feel satisfied with what we have, we can be counted as rich, however little we may actually possess.” ~Alain de Botton⁣</h4>⁣Any valuable piece of literature (fiction or non-fiction) has the power to transport our minds as we drift onto a hundred different journeys without ever taking one step outside our doors. ⁣Before his popularity on YouTube with his ‘School of Life’ series, Alain de Botton made Philosophy, Art and History accessible in our contemporary pop culture through his books. ⁣I first read this book in 2011 and I recall it as one of the books that influenced my philosophical perspectives and encouraged me to critically reflect on my own values, preconceptions and biases. ⁣De Botton gives remarkable insights on the purpose of philosophical and critical thought, Art, Politics, lovelessness and status, that seem ever more relevant even in the 2020’s. ⁣Exploring the connection between materialism and our unending quest for wealth, comfort and status in a world drowning in excesses.This book with its culmination of art history examples, philosophical quandaries and moral inquiries push the reader to reflect on their own values and thoughts about their own social, economic and moral statuses. By examining these issues from the lens of Art History and Philosophy, De Botton presents both the causes and solutions to our society’s pervading undercurrent of status anxiety.<img alt="" class="richtext-image full-width" height="650" src="https://smartstudynow.s3.amazonaws.com/media/images/IMG_1701.width-800.jpg" width="800">According to De Botton, &quot;status anxiety&quot; is a detrimental and ongoing worry that we are failing to conform to the ideals of success laid down by our society and that we may as a result be stripped of dignity and respect - leading to us falling even further down the social ladder.He posits that the causes for status anxiety include:<ul><li data-block-key="5et7q">Lovelessness</li><li data-block-key="142gr">Snobbery</li><li data-block-key="r5ng">Expectation</li><li data-block-key="eg31f">Meritocracy</li><li data-block-key="plvd">Dependence </li></ul>On the other hand, he presents diverse sources where human beings may find solutions to this undercurrent of status anxiety through the following chapters:<ul><li data-block-key="c7444">Philosophy</li><li data-block-key="7i6pm">Art</li><li data-block-key="7mcgi">Politics</li><li data-block-key="898df">Christianity</li><li data-block-key="e6bpl">Bohemia</li></ul><h3 data-block-key="bb8se">&quot;Our minds are susceptible to the influences of external voices telling us what we require to be satisfied, voices that may drown out the faint sounds emitted by our souls and can distract us from the careful, arduous task of correctly tracing our priorities.&quot; ~Alain De Botton</h3>Have you watched ‘The School of Life’ on YouTube or read any of Alain de Botton’s books? ⁣If you are interested in Alain De Botton&#x27;s thesis about the concept of status anxiety, he also made a fascinating youtube documentary, presenting a compelling and easily digestible version of the book. I encourage you to give it a watch, perhaps it can give you another perspective about the ways we look at our values and beliefs, about our place in the world and essentially, what truly matters.<h4 data-block-key="cgu10">Status Anxiety Documentary by Alain De Botton</h4><div>
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Did you find his thesis on status anxiety relevant in our social media era? ⁣<hr/>Reference :De Botton, A. (2004). Status anxiety. Pantheon Books. Chicago Style (17th ed.)Alain de Botton. (2014, February 26). Alain de Botton: Status Anxiety [Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t1MqJPHxy6g Accessed 8th November 2024Images by Artsy Mama Bee 2021. Available at <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CUocVvUlQ7I/?igsh=MWVlMTE5dnM1NTNxdQ==">https://www.instagram.com/p/CUocVvUlQ7I/?igsh=MWVlMTE5dnM1NTNxdQ==</a>

Status Anxiety in our Modern Consumerist Society

In an age where technology dominates nearly every aspect of our lives, the temptation to remain constantly plugged in can be overwhelming. Social media, streaming services, and endless notifications keep us distracted, making it difficult to focus on what truly matters. While technology can be a powerful tool, over-reliance on it can stifle productivity and hinder personal growth. Drawing from the wisdom of contemporary thinkers like Cal Newport, Robert Greene, Charles Duhigg, James Clear, and Stephen Covey, this article explores how to break free from technology addiction and cultivate habits that lead to success.<img alt="" class="richtext-image full-width" height="797" src="https://smartstudynow.s3.amazonaws.com/media/images/Screenshot_2025-01-31_at_9.56.01am.width-800.png" width="800"><h3 data-block-key="2g28f">Understanding the Problem: How Technology Hijacks Our Minds</h3>Cal Newport, in Digital Minimalism, argues that technology, particularly social media, exploits psychological vulnerabilities, trapping us in a cycle of endless scrolling and instant gratification. The dopamine-driven nature of these platforms makes it difficult to disengage, leading to reduced focus and fragmented attention spans. Similarly, Charles Duhigg’s The Power of Habit explains how our brains form habits through cues, routines, and rewards. Checking our phones at every free moment becomes an ingrained behaviour, making it harder to concentrate on deep work or meaningful tasks.<h3 data-block-key="2muog">The Cost of Constant Connectivity</h3>The consequences of excessive technology use go beyond lost productivity. Robert Greene, in Mastery, emphasises that achieving greatness requires deep, uninterrupted focus. True mastery in any field—whether academics, sports, or creative pursuits—demands dedicated practice and learning, something nearly impossible to achieve with constant digital distractions. Moreover, research suggests that excessive screen time reduces cognitive function, impairs memory, and increases stress levels, further limiting our ability to perform at our best.<h3 data-block-key="ca3to">Building Better Habits: Practical Strategies for Breaking Free</h3>James Clear’s Atomic Habits highlights that small changes, when applied consistently, can lead to remarkable transformations. By making conscious choices about our digital consumption, we can regain control and direct our energy towards meaningful goals. Here are some practical steps to implement:<ol><li data-block-key="8d1bh">Create a Digital Declutter Plan Newport recommends a 30-day digital detox, during which you eliminate non-essential digital activities. Use this period to reassess which technologies truly add value to your life.</li><li data-block-key="9utjl">Replace Bad Habits with Productive Ones Duhigg’s habit loop framework suggests replacing the routine of mindless scrolling with alternative activities like reading, exercising, or engaging in deep work. For instance, if you usually check your phone after waking up, replace that habit with journalling or meditation.</li><li data-block-key="27ijg">Use the 80/20 Rule Identify which digital activities provide the most benefit and eliminate the rest. This aligns with Covey’s principle from The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People: focusing on what truly matters and cutting out distractions.</li></ol>The 80/20 Rule, also known as the Pareto Principle, is a simple idea that can help you study smarter, manage your time better, and even improve your personal life. It states that 80% of your results come from 20% of your efforts.The idea is that a small portion of what you do creates most of your success. Instead of trying to do everything, focus on the few things that actually make a big difference.Studying – If you look at your past tests, you might notice that 20% of the material covers 80% of the questions. Instead of memorising everything, focus on the key concepts that appear most often.Sports &amp; Hobbies – If you&#x27;re an athlete, 20% of your training (the most effective drills or exercises) probably leads to 80% of your improvement. Focusing on those key drills can make you a better player faster.Social Media &amp; Distractions – You may spend 80% of your time on your phone, but only 20% of that is actually useful or productive. Cutting down on unimportant screen time can free up more hours for things that matter.<h3 data-block-key="d0bes">How to Use the 80/20 Rule in School</h3>1. Identify the most important subjects or topics that will have the biggest impact on your grades. 2. Prioritise assignments and tasks that will give you the most results in the shortest time. 3. Cut out activities that take a lot of time but don’t help you reach your goals.By applying the 80/20 Rule, you can work smarter, not harder, and make more progress in less time.<ol><li data-block-key="271q4">Schedule Time for Deep Work Newport’s Deep Work underscores the importance of setting aside blocks of time for intense, focused work. Designate specific hours for studying or working without digital interruptions.</li></ol><h3 data-block-key="1gcte">Cal Newport’s Deep Work: The Key to High Achievement</h3><div>
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In today’s world of constant digital distractions, focusing deeply on meaningful work is becoming a rare skill. Cal Newport, in his book Deep Work: Rules for Focused Success in a Distracted World, argues that those who cultivate the ability to focus without distraction will achieve more, learn faster, and stand out in their fields.<h3 data-block-key="c17ji">What is Deep Work?</h3>Deep Work is the ability to focus intensely on a cognitively demanding task without distractions. It allows you to work at a high level of concentration, leading to faster learning and better results. Newport contrasts this with Shallow Work—tasks like checking social media, responding to emails, or multitasking—that may feel productive but do not contribute to meaningful progress.<h3 data-block-key="d9qoj">Why is Deep Work Important?</h3><ol><li data-block-key="ddgnb">Increases Productivity – When you work with intense focus, you complete tasks in a fraction of the time it would take if you were distracted.</li><li data-block-key="2e4bk">Boosts Learning &amp; Mastery – Working deeply helps you grasp complex concepts faster, making it essential for students and professionals alike.</li><li data-block-key="cf6g8">Provides a Competitive Edge – In a world where most people are constantly distracted, those who can focus deeply will stand out and achieve more.</li><li data-block-key="vcrr">Enhances Creativity – Deep work allows your brain to make connections and generate original ideas, which is crucial for problem-solving and innovation.</li></ol><h3 data-block-key="65ja9">How to Develop Deep Work Habits</h3><img alt="Screenshot 2025-01-31 at 3.54.20 pm.png" class="richtext-image left" height="500" src="https://smartstudynow.s3.amazonaws.com/media/images/Screenshot_2025-01-31_at_3.54.20pm_OWWErLe.width-500.png" width="500"><ol><li data-block-key="fj50q">Schedule Deep Work Sessions Set aside blocks of uninterrupted time where you focus on one task without distractions. Newport suggests working in 90-minute blocks with short breaks in between.</li><li data-block-key="bnl1l">Eliminate Distractions Turn off notifications on your phone and computer. Use website blockers to avoid social media and entertainment sites. Find a quiet space where you can work without interruptions .</li><li data-block-key="dnuna">Embrace Boredom Many people turn to their phones at the first sign of boredom. Newport argues that learning to tolerate boredom strengthens your ability to focus. Try resisting the urge to check your phone when waiting in line or during short breaks</li><li data-block-key="bai6b">Work Like a Professional Athlete Newport highlights that top athletes, musicians, and scientists don’t just work hard—they train deliberately. Approach your studies or work with the same intensity and discipline.</li><li data-block-key="3s0rk">Use the 4 Deep Work Strategies Newport outlines four approaches to deep work:<ol><li data-block-key="6l6vg">Monastic Approach – Cut out all distractions entirely, like a monk. Best for those who can afford to isolate themselves for long periods.</li><li data-block-key="1muqc">Bimodal Approach – Spend part of your time in deep work and part in shallow tasks. For example, a writer might have two deep work days per week.</li><li data-block-key="3pb32">Rhythmic Approach – Set a daily routine for deep work, such as focusing from 8 AM to 12 PM every day.</li><li data-block-key="8mogd">Journalistic Approach – Fit deep work into spare moments throughout the day, like a journalist working on a deadline.</li></ol></li><li data-block-key="8obni">Measure Your Progress Keep track of how much deep work you complete daily. This could be measured in pages written, problems solved, or hours spent in focused work.</li></ol><img alt="Screenshot 2025-01-29 at 3.30.55 pm.png" class="richtext-image full-width" height="372" src="https://smartstudynow.s3.amazonaws.com/media/images/Screenshot_2025-01-29_at_3.30.55pm.width-800.png" width="800"><h3 data-block-key="25nok">Applying Deep Work as a Student</h3><ul><li data-block-key="ehfj4">Instead of studying while checking your phone every 10 minutes, set a timer for an hour and focus only on your work.</li><li data-block-key="35blt">When writing an essay, turn off the internet and fully engage with your ideas.</li><li data-block-key="8f460">Use deep work sessions to master difficult subjects, like maths or science, without distractions.</li></ul>By embracing Deep Work, you’ll gain a powerful skill that will set you apart in school, university, and your career. The ability to focus deeply is a superpower in an age of distraction—make it your advantage!<ol><li data-block-key="8k3q3">Implement Screen-Free Zones and Hours Set boundaries by keeping devices out of the bedroom or avoiding screens during meals. Establish tech-free hours before bedtime to improve sleep quality and mental clarity.</li><li data-block-key="1m53o">Leverage Accountability and Mindfulness Use apps like <a href="https://www.forestapp.cc/">Forest</a> or <a href="https://freedom.to/?irpid=56411&amp;subId1=1-g-CjwKCAiA74G9BhAEEiwA8kNfpXY77bMmoRhvvC0tRDPf9CQgL_TXMsgzd2wRr6botHePCMVxh3GoQhoCcR4QAvD_BwE&amp;utm_source=affiliate&amp;utm_campaign=56411&amp;gad_source=1&amp;gclid=CjwKCAiA74G9BhAEEiwA8kNfpXY77bMmoRhvvC0tRDPf9CQgL_TXMsgzd2wRr6botHePCMVxh3GoQhoCcR4QAvD_BwE">Freedom</a> to limit screen time, or engage friends and family in accountability challenges. Practise mindfulness to become more aware of compulsive tech use and make intentional choices.</li><li data-block-key="9g31e">Engage in Deep Learning and Skill Development Dedicate the time you reclaim from technology to learning new skills, reading books, or mastering a craft. Greene’s Mastery stresses the importance of lifelong learning to achieve greatness.</li><li data-block-key="ccr3">Optimise Your Environment for Productivity Design your workspace to minimise distractions. Keep your phone in another room while working and use tools like noise-cancelling headphones to maintain focus.</li><li data-block-key="cr786">Adopt the Two-Minute Rule Clear’s Atomic Habits suggests starting tasks that take less than two minutes immediately. This prevents procrastination and builds momentum for tackling larger tasks.</li><li data-block-key="8bqe2">Use Habit Stacking to Reinforce Positive Behaviour Pair new habits with existing ones to make them stick. For example, if you want to read more, do it right after breakfast instead of scrolling through your phone.</li></ol>If you want to learn more about Deep Work and other ideas by Cal Newport, visit his insightful <a href="https://www.youtube.com/calnewportmedia">Youtube Channel : Cal Newport Media</a><h3 data-block-key="5714m">Reaping the Rewards: Unlocking Your Full Potential</h3>By taking control of your digital habits, you’ll notice significant improvements in focus, productivity, and overall well-being. With fewer distractions, you can commit to deliberate practice, develop expertise in your chosen field, and work towards mastery. You’ll also cultivate deeper relationships, enhance creativity, and develop resilience—all essential qualities for success in school, university, and beyond.Breaking free from technology addiction isn’t about rejecting technology altogether; it’s about using it with intention. By adopting the principles of digital minimalism, building better habits, and prioritising deep work, you can take charge of your life, maximise your potential, and achieve greatness.Are you ready to take the first step towards a more focused, productive life? Start today by identifying one digital habit to change and commit to it. The future is yours to shape—make it count.<h3 data-block-key="242hu"></h3><h3 data-block-key="3lgcc">Works Cited:</h3>Books:<ol><li data-block-key="8a5jd">Clear, J. (2018). Atomic Habits: An Easy &amp; Proven Way to Build Good Habits &amp; Break Bad Ones. New York: Avery.</li><li data-block-key="e2lfk">Duhigg, C. (2016). The Power of Habit: Why We Do What We Do in Life and Business. New York: Random House.</li><li data-block-key="enk0t">Greene, R. (2012). Mastery. New York: Penguin Group.</li><li data-block-key="90djh">Covey, S. R. (1989). The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People: Powerful Lessons in Personal Change. New York: Free Press.</li><li data-block-key="cq08b">Newport, C. (2016). Deep Work: Rules for Focused Success in a Distracted World. New York: Grand Central Publishing.</li><li data-block-key="3atke">Newport, C. (2019). Digital Minimalism: Choosing a Focused Life in a Noisy World. New York: Penguin Press.</li></ol>YouTube Channel:<ol><li data-block-key="5ipr1">Newport, C. (2025). Cal Newport’s YouTube Channel. Available at: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCkG4X9ru-23cC76sh0s8szg">https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCkG4X9ru-23cC76sh0s8szg</a> (Accessed: 1 February 2025).</li><li data-block-key="7m67u">Productivity Game in (2016). Success in a distracted world: DEEP WORK by Cal Newport. [online] YouTube. Available at: https://youtu.be/gTaJhjQHcf8?si=3WeNWTSuOCQC3ILK [Accessed 3 Feb. 2025].</li></ol>Website for AI-Generated Images:<ol><li data-block-key="c9c54">OpenAI (2025). DALL·E: Create Images from Text Prompts. Available at: <a href="https://openai.com/dall-e">https://openai.com/dall-e</a> (Accessed: 1 February 2025).</li></ol>

Breaking Free from Technology Addiction: Unlocking Your Potential and Maximising Productivity

In a world that constantly demands more from us—more grades, more achievements, more &quot;likes&quot;—it’s easy to feel lost or disconnected from what truly drives us. The search for your true self, your purpose, and your creative spark can feel overwhelming, especially during high school and university, where you’re bombarded with external pressures. But here&#x27;s the thing: creativity isn&#x27;t just about producing art. It’s about understanding who you are, what excites you, and how you can express that in a way that feels meaningful.Books like The Creative Act by Rick Rubin, How to Be an Artist by Jerry Saltz, The Artist&#x27;s Way by Julia Cameron, Hector Garcia &amp; Frances Mirales&#x27; Ikigai, Monsters by Claire Dederer, and Man&#x27;s Search for Meaning by Dr Viktor Frankl offer different perspectives on creativity, identity, and purpose. These authors show us that creativity is not just a talent—it’s a process of discovering yourself and your unique place in the world.<h3 data-block-key="3m631"></h3><h3 data-block-key="b6fc3">Creativity as Self-Discovery</h3><img alt="Image by ArtsyMamaBee" class="richtext-image full-width" height="803" src="https://smartstudynow.s3.amazonaws.com/media/images/Screenshot_2025-02-04_at_4.44.16pm.width-800.png" width="800">Rick Rubin, a legendary music producer, argues in The Creative Act that creativity isn’t something you “do,” but something you experience. It’s less about forcing ideas and more about allowing them to arise from a deeper sense of intuition and connection. In a way, creativity is a tool for self-discovery. Rubin believes that creativity is at its core about being open to the world and to yourself.“Creativity is not a rare ability. It is not difficult to access. Creativity is a fundamental aspect of being human. It’s our birthright. And it’s for all of us.” — Rick Rubin, The Creative ActThis quote encapsulates Rubin’s belief that creativity is an expression of your true self, rather than just the products you create. When you allow yourself to express what’s deep inside you—whether through music, writing, art, or even the way you think—you’re engaging in a process of revealing who you are. Your true self. Creativity isn’t reserved for a select few; it’s an inherent part of being human. Everyone has access to it, and it’s a natural right to express creatively. Rubin suggests that this is not just a way to make art, but a way to understand your identity. This is powerful for students, who often feel the pressure of fitting into prescribed molds. Creativity is a space where you don&#x27;t have to fit in; you just have to show up and let things unfold.<h3 data-block-key="cgiu9"></h3><h3 data-block-key="1s6ed">Art is for Everyone: Finding Your Voice</h3><img alt="Image by ArtsyMamaBee" class="richtext-image full-width" height="804" src="https://smartstudynow.s3.amazonaws.com/media/images/Screenshot_2025-02-04_at_4.37.51pm.width-800.png" width="800">In How to Be an Artist, Jerry Saltz emphasises that being an artist doesn’t require any special qualifications. You don’t need a fancy title or degree to create meaningful work. In fact, Saltz argues, everyone is capable of tapping into their inner artist. What you need is the willingness to explore, make mistakes, and keep going. The key to creativity, Saltz says, is to develop the courage to try things and fail without shame. Through this process, you’ll find out not only what you’re good at, but also what matters to you.“The most important thing is to show up.” — Jerry Saltz, How to Be an ArtistFor students who are exploring what path to take in life—whether it’s art, science, business, or something else—creativity is the ultimate guide. It shows you what drives, inspires and excites you, what you care about, and where your passions lie. It’s a process that helps you align your identity with your purpose. By simply showing up and starting—without worrying about perfection—you create space for your authentic voice to emerge.<h3 data-block-key="bn99u"></h3><h3 data-block-key="bfgdq">Breaking Through Creative Blocks: The Role of Rituals and Practices</h3><img alt="Image by ArtsyMamaBee" class="richtext-image full-width" height="802" src="https://smartstudynow.s3.amazonaws.com/media/images/Screenshot_2025-02-04_at_4.42.26pm.width-800.png" width="800">Creativity, however, isn’t always easy. Sometimes you’ll face writer’s block, a lack of motivation, or deep self-doubt. That’s where The Artist’s Way by Julia Cameron comes in. Cameron’s book is all about breaking through these blocks by establishing creative habits. Her most famous practice, “morning pages,” involves writing three longhand pages every morning to clear your mind and make space for creativity.“Creativity is the natural order of life. Life is energy: pure creative energy.” — Julia Cameron, The Artist’s WayThis quote is a reminder that creativity flows naturally within us, and we simply need to tap into it. For students, this daily practice could be a game-changer. By committing to a small but regular habit, like journaling or sketching, you give yourself permission to tap into the creative process without worrying about the outcome. It’s through this act of creation—no matter how imperfect—that you learn to trust your voice. You’ll also start to see that creativity is not about forcing perfection; it’s about exploration and consistency.<h3 data-block-key="6sfe4"></h3><h3 data-block-key="8akvi">Ikigai: Finding Your Purpose</h3><img alt="Image by ArtsyMamaBee" class="richtext-image full-width" height="798" src="https://smartstudynow.s3.amazonaws.com/media/images/Screenshot_2025-02-04_at_4.38.37pm.width-800.png" width="800">The Japanese concept of ikigai is about finding the intersection between what you love, what you’re good at, what the world needs, and what you can be paid for. Ikigai is a way to frame your purpose. If you can tap into this sweet spot, you’ll feel a deeper sense of meaning and fulfilment in your work.“ Our ikigai is different for all of us, but one thing we have in common is that we are all searching for meaning.... the essentials to happiness in this life are something to do, something to love, and something to hope for.” — Hector Garcia &amp; Frances Mirales, IkigaiThis is particularly important in high school and university, where you may feel unsure about what you want to do after graduation. Ikigai encourages you to look for the overlap between your passions and your strengths, and consider how those things can contribute to the world. This doesn’t mean you have to figure everything out right away. It’s a journey of discovering what excites you and where you can make a difference. In the creative process, ikigai is about aligning your personal purpose with what you love to do.<h3 data-block-key="74jd7"></h3><h3 data-block-key="d222t">Facing the Monsters Within</h3><img alt="Image by ArtsyMamaBee" class="richtext-image full-width" height="760" src="https://smartstudynow.s3.amazonaws.com/media/images/IMG_4636.width-800.jpg" width="800">In Monsters, Claire Dederer examines the idea that creativity often emerges from confronting your own flaws, contradictions, and vulnerabilities. In other words, creativity isn’t about being perfect—it’s about being human. Dederer argues that artists, whether consciously or not, often draw from their own internal struggles and imperfections. The “monsters” within us—our fears, doubts, and insecurities—can fuel some of our greatest creative work.“What makes great art depends on who we are and what we live through.”— Claire Dederer, MonstersThis concept is powerful for any of us who might feel the pressure to always present ourselves in the best possible light. But it’s important to remember that the struggles and challenges you face can contribute to the richness of your creative expression. In fact, some of the most powerful art comes from confronting the darkness within. This is part of embracing your true identity, including the parts of yourself you might not always be proud of.<h3 data-block-key="fq7mi"></h3><h3 data-block-key="61bfi">Creativity, Purpose, and Meaning: Insights from Viktor Frankl</h3><img alt="Image by ArtsyMamaBee" class="richtext-image full-width" height="801" src="https://smartstudynow.s3.amazonaws.com/media/images/Screenshot_2025-02-04_at_4.38.57pm.width-800.png" width="800">Finally, one of the most profound reflections on purpose and meaning comes from Dr Viktor Frankl’s Man&#x27;s Search for Meaning, where he argues that finding purpose in life is the key to overcoming suffering and creating a meaningful existence. Frankl, a Holocaust survivor and psychiatrist, asserts that even in the most extreme and painful circumstances, individuals can find meaning through their actions, relationships, and ultimately their creativity. He writes:“What is to give light must endure burning.” — Viktor Frankl, Man&#x27;s Search for MeaningThis powerful quote suggests that the process of finding meaning—and the creativity that comes from it—often requires sacrifice and struggle. But, Frankl contends, it’s in this process of grappling with hardship and transformation that we discover our deepest purpose. For any individual, creativity offers a path to discover that purpose. Frankl emphasises that the meaning of life is not something that can be handed to us; it is something we must find for ourselves, often by tapping into our inner resources, which may include creative expression.Frankl also discusses how creativity can provide individuals with a sense of agency and identity, especially during difficult times:“Each man is asked to make of himself what he is supposed to become. It is for him to fulfill his destiny by choosing his own way.” — Viktor Frankl, Man&#x27;s Search for MeaningFor students navigating their future, Frankl’s message is clear: you have the power to shape your destiny through the choices you make, including how you engage with your creative passions. Creativity is not just a form of expression; it’s a way of affirming your identity and your unique place in the world.<h3 data-block-key="c2omn"></h3><h3 data-block-key="ajqoi">Embrace the Process</h3>Ultimately, creativity is a journey, not a destination. The search for your identity and purpose doesn’t have to be a rigid, linear path. It’s a fluid process that requires experimentation, self-reflection, and the courage to face your inner world. Whether through the lens of Rick Rubin’s flow of intuition, Jerry Saltz’s belief in everyone’s creative potential, Julia Cameron’s daily practices, the pursuit of ikigai, confronting the monsters inside, or Viktor Frankl’s wisdom about meaning and suffering, you’ll discover that creativity is the key to unlocking your true self.So, embrace the messiness. Start small. Take risks. And most importantly, give yourself the permission to fail. It’s through the process of creation that you’ll uncover not just your artistic voice—but your true identity and purpose.Start creating today. Your future self will thank you.<div>
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<h3 data-block-key="d1h7t">Works Cited:</h3>Cameron, J. (2002) The Artist’s Way: A Spiritual Path to Higher Creativity. London: Pan Macmillan.Dederer, C. (2023) Monsters: A Fan’s Dilemma. London: Sceptre.Frankl, V.E. (2004) Man’s Search for Meaning. London: Rider.García, H. and Miralles, F. (2017) Ikigai: The Japanese Secret to a Long and Happy Life. London: Hutchinson.Rubin, R. (2023) The Creative Act: A Way of Being. Edinburgh: Canongate Books.Saltz, J. (2020) How to Be an Artist. London: Ilex Press.www.youtube.com. (n.d.). Rick Rubin Shares a Lifetime of Creative Advice I Daily Routines, Managing Inputs, and Artist Rules. [online] Available at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2jM1TanhxTw [Accessed 4 May 2023].‌

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