Unleashing Creativity by Ujala

Unleashing Creativity by Ujala - October 2018 Scholarship Essay

When we hear “think outside the box,” our minds may leap into a realm embodying creativity. We associate the adage with innovation, an urge to generate change in a new manner— to have others marvel at our ideas. But sometimes, we feel stuck. Where’s the box, and why can’t I stay there? How do I even know if I’m out of it? Rather than inspire, the phrase may foster confusion and despair. These feelings, borne from lacking of understanding the box itself, impede upon the expression’s impact. Therefore, comprehending the concept of the box remains essential to the meaning of the phrase.

For better or worse, there’s no physical box we hop into and out of to get creativity pumping through our veins, and beating rhythmically with our heart. It’s metaphorical—symbolizing limitations. The limitations to our creativity, our work ethic, and our desire to succeed. Often we situate the box that confines our minds. "Our work reaches the bare minimum, so it’s good enough. Our idea is slightly different from theirs, so it’s fine. I’m not creative enough, I can’t come up with that. I just don’t feel like putting the effort in." Leaving the box to encase our thoughts imprisons our ideas; they will not see the light unless given the chance to escape.

Instead of stepping outside the box, inching into the path inventiveness, we must rip apart the cardboard. Thinking outside of the box doesn’t mean much to me. It’s when we break down the restricting walls of doubt and hesitation, leaving only dust behind, that we pave the road to creativity. However tumultuous the journey, no matter how many cardboard particles coat you with self-doubt, the unbound creativity will be worth the struggle. Beauty resides in our brains, alongside hope, wonder, and inquiry. The blackness of fear and inertia may conceal our light, but not consume. Possibility lies ahead, and part of us yearns to capture and cherish it; to stay within your boundaries would limit us all.