Creative Procrastination

It is now proven that procrastination can enhance creativity. The sixteen years that it took Leonardo to complete the Mona Lisa is often quoted as an example of this. The theory runs that first ideas tend to be the most conventional and it is only after mulling it over that more creative and inventive ideas emerge.

I find this reassuring during these strange times of lockdown, with the invisible peril of coronavirus swirling around us. Reassuring, also, that so many other artist friends reflect on a sense of torpor, being distracted and unable to focus.

Some seem to be able to use the time to develop new projects and immerse themselves in their work – maybe they can close their brain to the constant subconscious background hum of anxiety that the rest of us experience.

Either response would seem to be perfectly normal.

It has been important for me, therefore, to embrace my distractability and enjoy the routine and fulfilment of undertaking other finite tasks – who knew that clearing out my plan chest would be so satisfying?

And there are the days when I have been able to head in to the studio, pick up my brushes and work all day.

Yet this is no guarantee for the day after.

So I have learned to forgive myself and accept that these are the very strangest of times and either they will pass or we will adapt.

In the meantime, I feel lucky to have the luxury to sit and reflect on how this extended time to consider beyond the first idea may, ultimately, be very useful.