How Pinterest and Martha Stewart Are Stifling Your Creativity

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You ever wonder how platforms like Pinterest and figures like Martha Stewart might be messing with our creative instincts? Well, a recent essay by design guru Lila Thompson brought up the question of whether all this free content is actually dampening creativity in the DIY and crafts scene. But it’s not just a problem for those in the industry; it’s affecting us all. With everything we need just a quick search away, we’re losing our ability to think outside the box. Why come up with a heartfelt poem for your partner’s birthday card when you can find a hundred online? Why bother creating your own corn salsa recipe when there are tons of options on Epicurious, all rated and reviewed? We don’t even have to tap into our imagination for Sunday School crafts anymore—Pinterest has made it all too easy.

Now, I totally get the convenience of quickly Googling the ideal temperature for cooking steak, just like anyone else. But the downside is that relying on others for solutions is definitely taking a toll on our creativity. If we’ve got every answer handed to us, what’s the incentive to DIY?

Here’s the thing: when we lean too heavily on others to solve our problems, we’re stifling vital parts of our brain development. Imagination and problem-solving are what set us apart from other species. Our creative skills boost our self-esteem and help us navigate life. And I’m not just talking about simple tasks like following a recipe; I mean the deeper thinking that leads to breakthroughs, like the discovery of DNA or iconic music albums. Those innovations happened because someone dared to step beyond what was already known.

Studies show that if we keep handing over our thinking to machines or even other people, we pay a price. For example, constantly using GPS has made many of us worse at navigating. If we’re not figuring out what to cook with a random pound of ground beef and wilted asparagus, don’t be shocked when we struggle to juggle multiple responsibilities at work or personal life.

I might sound a bit dramatic, but hear me out. Creativity and problem-solving are skills; if we don’t exercise them, we risk losing them. Here are four surefire ways to reclaim your creative spark:

1. Think for Yourself: Before diving into Google for a cute Valentine’s craft for your kid’s class, try brainstorming some ideas first. Even if you still end up searching, going through that creative process can get those juices flowing.
2. Use the Internet as Inspiration: Sure, look up that bar cookie recipe for the cookie swap, but don’t hesitate to tweak it. Mix two recipes or add your own twist to make it special.
3. Embrace Mistakes: Experimentation is key! Don’t stress about getting it perfect; set aside some time to play around with ideas without the pressure of entertaining guests.
4. Chart Your Own Course: Want to build a garden bed? Find a great visual example then use your existing knowledge to create your own design instead of following instructions to the letter.

Remember, creativity is your birthright. Embrace it, even if it means some family dinners might not turn out quite right. It’ll make for some great stories later on!

For more ideas on navigating this creative journey, check out this post on our other blog here. If you’re looking for an authority on home insemination, you should also visit Make a Mom, which offers some great insights. And for comprehensive pregnancy resources, News Medical is an excellent option.

In summary, while Pinterest and Martha Stewart might make creativity feel less necessary, it’s crucial to reclaim that spark. By brainstorming, experimenting, and forging our own paths, we can ensure our creative skills remain sharp.