Creativity is a habit, and the best creativity is the result of
Hear the wisdom of Twyla Tharp, who speaks of the mysterious fire of the human spirit: “Creativity is a habit, and the best creativity is the result of good work habits.” These words reveal a truth often misunderstood — that inspiration is not a gift of chance or the whim of the gods, but a flame kindled by discipline. To create greatly is not merely to dream, but to labor faithfully, shaping visions into reality through steady and deliberate effort.
In the days of old, poets, sculptors, and builders of temples were revered as vessels of divine inspiration. Yet even they knew that their art did not come forth fully formed from the heavens. Their creativity was nurtured through ritual, through repeated acts of devotion to their craft. Like a farmer tending his fields, they sowed their days with work habits — rising early, practicing diligently, and honoring the process that would one day bear fruit.
Tharp’s teaching shatters the illusion that genius is born from chaos or sudden lightning strikes of insight. The artist who waits idly for inspiration is like a sailor who waits for the wind while refusing to raise the sails. Creativity, she reminds us, is a habit — a rhythm of life, built through choices and actions repeated over time. It is through this sacred discipline that the wild spark of imagination finds form and purpose.
Consider this, O seekers of wisdom: the best creativity flows not from mere talent, but from mastery. And mastery is forged through perseverance, patience, and the humble work habits that keep the hands moving when the heart falters. In this way, even the ordinary becomes extraordinary, and visions once thought impossible take shape before the eyes.
Let future generations heed these words. Do not wait for the muses to descend from on high. Instead, build a life of practice, order, and devotion. For when habit and creativity walk hand in hand, the soul becomes a living temple of art, and its works shall endure beyond the bounds of time.
MHNguyen Manh Hung
This quote makes me rethink how I approach my creative projects. If creativity is built on good work habits, does that mean the best creators are also the most disciplined? Can creativity truly be manufactured, or is it always dependent on natural inspiration? How can we balance working hard on our creative routines while also leaving space for organic, inspired moments? I’m curious about how others have found success in creating a balance between habit and inspiration.
NHPham Thi Nhat Had
It’s interesting that Twyla Tharp says creativity is a result of good work habits. If we embrace the idea that creativity is a habit, does that mean we have the power to be creative on demand? How do we maintain motivation to stay disciplined and work through moments of doubt? This makes me realize that maybe I can approach creativity more systematically, just like any other skill I want to develop. What habits have worked for you in unlocking your creative potential?
TKNguye?n Ta?n Kha?i
I love this perspective on creativity, but I also wonder: does everyone’s creativity require the same work habits? Some people seem to thrive on structure, while others seem to need chaos to be creative. Is there a balance between creating productive routines and allowing for flexibility when the creative flow doesn’t follow a set pattern? How do we know when to stick to the routine and when to break free and allow spontaneity?
TMNguyen Tuan Minh
Twyla Tharp’s quote really challenges the myth that creativity is a spontaneous, magical thing. If it’s really a habit, that means it requires effort and consistency. Do you think creative people who seem to produce effortlessly are just masters at good work habits? Could it be that creativity comes from the ability to work through the process, even when you don’t feel ‘inspired’? I’d love to hear how others approach creativity as a habit.
KLNguyen Nong Khanh Linh
This quote really resonated with me because it suggests that creativity isn’t just about inspiration—it’s about forming good routines. If creativity is a habit, does that mean we need to work at it every day to improve? What are some ways we can build better work habits to enhance our creative output? I find it fascinating how something like discipline can be key to unlocking creative potential. What’s your take on the connection between routine and creativity?