Use the tools of comedy to help in your creative process.
Some of the funniest people are improv comedians. They are true masters of creativity. The best ones can create magic out of thin air, absolutely in the moment, because in improv everything is possible.
Students of the art know that one of the core tenets of improv is to build up rather than tear down. When working with a group, the key is to say, “and…” And adds to the overall.
The antithesis is “but…” But puts the brakes on everything that was done and hijacks an idea, sending it off in a new direction.
There’s nothing wrong with going in new directions; it’s how some of the greatest ideas happen. The key is not to derail the progress that came before it – there may have been some great material – or intention – there.
Similarly, think of creativity as a journey. You’re starting at one place, wanting to go somewhere else, and then have a virtually unlimited number of ways to get there. Some are direct, and some are… well, creative. As you add to your itinerary, you may find yourself in unexpected places, places that may provide that ah-ha you’ve wanted all along. It’s more interesting (and fun) than “teleporting to someplace new” and starting over from there!
Keep adding. It’s how the greatest improv artists work.
Get off your “buts” and build creative greatness!
