Some of the greatest artists and creative geniuses of our time are so successful because they suffer from insecurities.
In general, low self-esteem and insecurity in one’s abilities can motivate people to become more creative than their secure counterparts, research investigations recently found.
Insecurity and biochemistry
In her book Emotion Molecules: The Science Behind Mind-Body Medicine, neuroscientist Dr. Candace Burt explains that peptides, the chemicals in our bodies that equate emotions, are released more when we have insecure thoughts about ourselves.
These insecurities trigger the release of peptides which trigger a biochemical release of amino acid chains, causing the firing of neurons that open up the left and right side of the brain so the individual becomes more creative.
Why insecure people become creative
Sociologically, this can be explained in a different way than the scientific explanation involving biochemicals and peptides.
Insecure people are usually quite negative about others, situations, and themselves. To counter negative emotions, insecure people get creative.
They do things that inspire themselves and perhaps others. These negative tendencies can lead to discovering and creating amazing things, but insecure people may not be satisfied with what they achieve.
Creating things and making something incredible is a way insecure people can prove their worth. By writing songs that touch the hearts of thousands or creating business ideas that will help them financially for the rest of their lives, creativity allows insecure people to validate themselves and their insecurities.
Low self-esteem is simply one way to get the creative juices flowing, and while secure people can be creative geniuses too, this is simply one of the latest findings from psychological research.
Everyone has insecurities
Even people we know to be creative geniuses like Meryl Streep have admitted that they have insecurities that trigger them.
“I have varying degrees of confidence and self-loathing,” she explained in previous interviews. “You could have an absolutely terrible day where you doubt your talent, or you’re boring and they’ll find out you don’t know what you’re doing.”
The trick is to exploit your fears and use them to your advantage. What do you feel insecure about? Make a list and brainstorm ways you can overcome this feeling and turn it into something magical.
