“Inspiration exists, but it has to find you working.”
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— Pablo Picasso
This powerful statement from Pablo Picasso challenges a common myth. Many people view inspiration as a magical, unpredictable force. They wait for a muse to strike before they begin their work. However, Picasso, one of history’s most prolific artists, suggests a different approach. He argues that inspiration is not a prerequisite for action. Instead, it is a result of it. The key to unlocking creativity is not waiting, but working.
The Fallacy of Waiting for the Muse
Many aspiring creators fall into a paralyzing trap. They believe they cannot write, paint, or innovate without feeling inspired first. This mindset treats creativity like a lightning strike—something you have no control over. You simply wait for it to happen. Consequently, this waiting game often leads to procrastination and inaction. Days turn into weeks, and the canvas remains blank.
Picasso’s philosophy turns this idea on its head. He affirms that inspiration is real and valuable. Yet, he firmly states that it arrives during the process, not before it. It finds you with a paintbrush in hand or with your fingers on the keyboard. The act of engaging in your craft creates the necessary conditions for brilliant ideas to surface. Therefore, discipline is more important than fleeting moments of motivation.
Action as the Catalyst for Creativity
Think of creative work as pushing a car. The initial effort is the hardest part. You have to strain and push against inertia. At first, the car barely moves. But once it starts rolling, it gains momentum. Maintaining its speed becomes much easier. Similarly, the act of working, even when it feels forced, generates its own momentum. This momentum is what attracts inspiration.
When you commit to a routine, you are essentially opening a window for inspiration to fly through. A writer who commits to 500 words a day will inevitably stumble upon a great plot twist. A musician who practices scales daily will discover a new melody. The consistent effort primes your brain for creative breakthroughs. Researchers have found that disciplined routines can strengthen the neural pathways associated with creativity . Source
How to Put Picasso’s Wisdom into Practice
Adopting this mindset requires a shift from passive waiting to active doing. The goal is to make the process of working a non-negotiable habit. Inspiration becomes a welcome guest, but not one you delay the party for. Here are some practical ways to apply this principle to your own life and work.
Establish a Consistent Schedule
First, dedicate specific time slots to your creative work. Treat these appointments with the same seriousness as a business meeting. It does not matter if you feel creative during that time. The point is to show up and engage in the activity. This consistency builds discipline and signals to your subconscious mind that this work is a priority. Over time, you will find it easier to enter a state of flow during these dedicated periods.
Lower the Bar to Get Started
Perfectionism is a major enemy of action. If you wait for the perfect idea, you may never start. Instead, give yourself permission to create something mediocre. The first draft can be messy. The initial sketch can be rough. The goal is simply to begin. You can always refine and edit your work later. For example, many successful authors aim for a