How to Be More Creative
The Psychology, The Process, and The Real Work
Table of Contents
Chapter 2
Let’s Get Real: Why Advice Alone Isn’t Enough
First, Let’s Address the Skepticism
I know what some of you may be thinking.
"I can just Google ways to be more creative. I don’t need a deep dive on this."
And you're not wrong — there are thousands of articles out there.
But tell me this:
Have any of those articles actually changed how you think?
Have they helped you break out of your own mental loops in a way that sticks?
Or do you find yourself reading, and then… going right back to feeling stuck?
That’s the thing. Information is everywhere, but the art of applying it is rare.
So, instead of just listing tips, I’m going to challenge you.
Most of you are afraid to have your biases challenged — especially about your art.
My goal is to challenge you to rethink your own limits, not critique your creativity.
I can’t do for you what you’re not willing to face yourself.
It’s time to go beyond inspirational speeches that get you riled up, only for you to fall back into the same habits within a week.
I’m going to ask you the tough questions you don’t ask yourself.
In my assessment, motivation is a mood. Mastery is a method.
This article series, “The Psychology of Creativity,” is part of my Mastery Session guide and the result of research and implementation during my journey as a creative thinker.
By the end of this chapter, you won’t just know about creative blocks — you’ll have a personal strategy to get past them.
You need to declare war to take back your mind.
But first, let’s identify the real enemy.
The Creative Block Isn't What You Think It Is
Fair warning: If your ego is in the room, lock it away.
What I’ve learned in over 30 years as a creative thinker is just how big an ego can get.
I’ll even admit I have a huge ego.
But it’s grounded — because no matter how much success I achieve, there are always new levels to reach and, more importantly, always something to improve.
So, I want you to find comfort in knowing that I’ve been hustling for years, just like you.
We speak the same language.
I’ve experienced every angle of the creative industry — starting as a child illustrator and painter, then teaching myself piano, producing Hiphop / R&B / Gospel music in the 90’s, and managing one of my artist to land appearances on NBC’s Today Show and Showtime at the Apollo at its peak in the early 2000. From 2012 to 2025, I wrote, produced, and directed my first feature film, created three documentaries, and spent over a decade deeply involved in television and production.
Ego itself isn’t inherently bad — it’s a natural part of us that can drive confidence and ambition.
The issue is when ego gets in the way of growth and becomes part of the reason why you can’t see your true creative blocker.
Most people think creative blocks happen because they "lack ideas."
But here’s the truth: Creative blocks are never about a lack of ideas.
They happen because you’re either overwhelmed by too many ideas or paralyzed by self-doubt before you even begin.
Sound familiar?
Here’s where it gets interesting. Your creative block isn’t a single issue — it’s a pattern.
And like any pattern, it can be broken.
The first step? Recognizing your creative block type.
Which Type of Creative Blocker Are You?
To get the most out of this exercise, you need a clear, honest mind — no excuses, no defenses.
I’m going to ask you a few direct questions. No fluff. Just real insight into what’s slowing you down.
Be honest — because the answer might surprise you.
(And once you see what’s really in your way, you’ll know exactly how to break through it.)
Ready? Let’s go.
Click the link below to anonymously choose a creative blocker. Then, come back to read the rest of this article for my personal assessment on how to attack your challenge. You only need to choose one.
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