We talk a lot in this newsletter about creativity as a vital skill. We celebrate it in various ways, across fields, from the arts to humanities to tech. And we champion it as a key driver of innovation and personal fulfillment. 

That is all true. And also:

It's crucial to recognize that the ability to express and nurture creativity is not universally accessible. Creativity, in many ways, is a luxury afforded to those who have certain freedoms, resources, and support systems. 

In other words: Creativity is a privilege. And like other privileges, it’s one that’s helpful to both acknowledge and check. 

The foundations of creativity

To understand why creativity can be considered a privilege, we have to first acknowledge the conditions that allow it to flourish—conditions we talk about trying to foster right here in this newsletter every week! 

Creativity thrives in environments where you have:

Time 

Engaging in creative pursuits often requires free time, which, as we all know, isn’t always in plentiful supply to everyone! Especially those who are working multiple jobs, caring for children or loved ones, or struggling with health conditions might easily find it difficult to carve out time for creative activities.

The bitter stereotype about artists and entrepreneurs who live in places like Brooklyn and San Francisco—that they all secretly have trust funds—has, of course, a kernel of truth. That truth is that it is infinitely easier, healthier, and more sustainable to dedicate yourself to a creative pursuit if you don’t spend 40-60 hours a week employed to do something else! Time is one of those resources you can, in a way, buy more of for yourself. And speaking of resources…

Resources 

Access to materials, tools, and education are essential for creative expression. Whether it’s art supplies, musical instruments, specialized software, or just plain old internet access, these resources are often expensive, a.k.a. not readily available to all.

Those with more means can afford to take risks, invest in creative tools, and dedicate time to developing their skills without the immediate pressure of financial survival. (Plus, nothing leeches the joy right out of the creative process faster than knowing your rent depends on a particular project!) 

In contrast, marginalized communities often face significant creative barriers. Underfunded schools may lack artistic programs, and communities plagued by economic hardship might (and probably should) prioritize immediate survival over creative pursuits. This lack of access perpetuates cycles of inequality, because creativity and innovation can also be drivers of economic mobility and personal growth! 

Supportive environments 

Emotional and intellectual support from family, friends, mentors, teachers, professional peers, and bosses can significantly enhance your ability to pursue creative endeavors. Encouragement and constructive feedback are crucial for growth and development. If you lack that—or are actively discouraged!—everything gets a lot harder.

Educational institutions—the major, consistent environment most of us find ourselves in before the professional environment—play a pivotal role in nurturing creativity. Schools that emphasize the arts, critical thinking, and problem-solving can inspire students to explore their creative potential. But not all schools are created equal. Disparities in funding, resources, and philosophies mean that students in affluent areas often receive a (literally) richer, more diverse education compared to those in underprivileged neighborhoods.

More subtly, the definition of a supportive environment can extend to the idea of a sense of psychological safety as well, no matter the actual milieu. If it’s not “ok” to fail, to look silly, to be vulnerable, or to be ambitious, it’s nearly impossible to be your fullest creative self. 

Inclusion

Relatedly, being part of the “in group” of the creative class is a massive advantage when it comes to fostering your creative life. If society, your family, your social circle, and you all believe that you belong to—and deserve to belong to—an established creative class, you have inherent authority, respect, and the benefit of the doubt for pursuing your creative passions. If you’re an outsider, if you feel like you don’t have the “right” to be creative in a particular way, and/or your creative efforts are only ever met with skepticism, you end up spending tons of energy proving your worth and playing political games rather than creating.

For instance, women and people of color often face systemic biases and stereotypes that can limit their opportunities in creative fields. And, hugely important: Representation matters. Seeing role models in your chosen creative field who look like yourself can be a powerful motivator and a source of inspiration. 

Freedom from stress 

Lack of any/all of the above foundations can cause stress, but there are a million other reasons someone might be experiencing acute or chronic stress in a given moment. There is a significant cognitive load that comes with dealing with things like financial instability, discrimination, health concerns, war, a breakup, death of a loved one, or other stressors, which can stifle creative thinking. Environment is a huge factor, as mentioned above, but even in the best environments, stressors from other sources can sap creative energy, making it difficult for the mind to wander and innovate.

From this nonexhaustive list alone, it’s pretty obvious that creativity is a privilege. But what to do about it? 

Fostering inclusive creativity

If you thought I had all the solutions to these sticky privilege problems…I am about to let you down. But like any other privilege, the awareness of it, first and foremost, helps make it apparent when it’s usually invisible. And when these disparities are more obvious, you can do a couple of things:

• Be appreciative of the ways you are privileged.

• Take steps to mitigate the disparity of privilege for yourself and others. 

• Give yourself and others grace if your creative pursuits sometimes stall or falter in the face of lack of privilege.

And, of course, there are larger, more societal or political things you can advocate for to foster  inclusive environments that democratize access to creative opportunities:

• Advocate for investment in arts education: Increased funding for arts programs in schools, particularly in underprivileged areas, can provide more students with the tools and encouragement they need.

• Advocate for affordable tech: Bridging the “digital divide” by providing affordable access to technology and the internet can ensure that more people can take advantage of online creative resources.

• Promote diversity and inclusion: At work or in other organizations you’re a part of, celebrate diverse voices and stories. When you have the opportunity, widen the scope of representation of creative expressions.

• Advocate for work-life balance: Seems obvious, but the more voices in support, the better! Encourage policies that support work-life balance, such as flexible working hours or WFH policies, giving more individuals the time and mental space needed for creative pursuits.

Over to you…

Have you ever been aware of your creative privilege…or lack thereof? We’d love to hear about your experiences!

For more…

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And let us know if you’d like to go deeper with us to talk about you and creativity. We do:

• 1:1 coaching and mentorship

• Team workshops and consulting for marketing and leadership

• Speaking and appearances on podcasts and at events

Say hi anytime.

Kumbaya,Shannon & Kevan