Literally worked 4 hours today and I was like “I need to take a walk to think more creatively when I’m back” I agree - take better care of yourself. I find better sleep is always a good antidote to brain fog!
@@rajunaidu7751 not sure it’s 4 hours my friend I ran a business for 18 months before this and was working 16 hours per day. It wasn’t sustainable but I was able to do it for a short period of time. Would love to know where you found that you only have 4 hours of mental energy? That would be great to know as I love learning and have never read any literature to support that hypothesis. However, that doesn’t mean it’s not true! Please let me know look forward to learning more!
You can’t mentally work for 8 hours straight. Maybe you can but it’s not sustainable. I used to work as consultant in a technical field (engineering). The majority of my day was occupied by writing worksite specifications, technical reports and service proposals. So basically, being creative in a technical way. I was mentally exhausted at the end of my 40h week. Even though I tried to take an hour long lunch break and some coffee breaks here and there, I felt like I was always reaching the limits of my mental capacities.
@@KevinPetersdp I may or may not have had it in my hand about 2 hours ago too! 🤔 haha! How are you Kevin? How long have you followed Nathaniel for? Nice to meet you albeit virtually!
Incredible video! I love the advice, graphics and animations. The point about being bored really resonates with me - it reminds me of that great video you made where you went into a lonely winter cabin in the middle of the woods. No distractions, just paper, books and lots of time to get bored and be creative! Very refreshing!
Your editing skills are truly amazing! You did nothing but just sit in front of a camera and talk, but all the little edits grabbed my attention so much and made me feel intrigued. Your creative expression is a true inspiration to me!
I. Creativity - 00:37 II. Art is Not a War - 03:10 III. Boredom is a Superpower - 06:19 IV. Don't Think - 07:34 V. Creativity is Like a Muscle - 09:37 VI. Developing Your Own Voice - 10:18
I love the how you had the hat on, but didn’t say anything until the end.. it made me laugh to myself, and I think just that small part of your well crafted video shows why I keep watching your videos.
It's ridiculous to think about how long I've known you and how far you've been in literally everything, storytelling, editing, visuals. Feels like it packs a perfect punch every time! Thanks NATHANIEL
This has to be my most favorite of your videos Nate! I loved your quote: “Art is oxygen and I HAVE to breathe.” I felt so inspired and reassured by the ideas and concepts you shared about how to be creative. Totally added to my favorites playlist for future use. Thank you! Also i would love to buy some new merch, congrats!!!
Damn just 1:57 into the video and I paused to say how much I appreciate the light you give out. It's like i can sense its not just words and nice videos, but you're really excited about life and sharing what you learn
I agree, the war of art is a strange book, viewing creativity as a war is a strange and unhealthy perspective. I prefer to view it as play, I don't force anything, I just let myself drift towards what I'm naturally attracted to in the moment.
Thank you so much for mentioning The War of Art! I received it as a gift from a friend and I felt the exact same way about creativity and how I work as a creative. This was really reassuring.
I love the fact your videos are edited to the point that I think u got a whole team of editors. It makes it so easy to keep up with what you're talking about.
this is more like " find your people in the same community". it hits me again by the idea of creativity. You are such a great story teller that I wish I could become. thank you for sharing.
For me, the biggest creativity boost comes from meditation. The first 5 minutes of "cooling down" mentally are just flooded with ideas. Can only recommend!
I just finished editing one of my first videos and the itching feeling you talked about it's really there. Right before starting watching your video I tried to understand how I feel because I've never felt that and you gave me a lot of clarity and a big smile! Also I agree with you. Art is not a war, art is peace of mind.
I am a teacher and was given the opportunity to teach from 8 to 11:30 and end my day at 12. I felt so much better on that schedule. it gave me time to relax, get personal things done, and more time to be a better teacher.
As a part time creator, I've had to find ways to stay productive while avoiding burnout. It can be tough sometimes. You try and balance work, family, and video making and it can be hard. But the more I create, the more I find that little breaks and smaller chunks of work fit better than trying to force everything all at one time. My production process is pretty long and it can be frustrating at times to feel like I need to do more, but it almost always benefits me to rest, so that advice resonated with me and validated something I was already feeling. Thanks for another great video!
I am 66 years old and on the cusp of retiring. I find your videos unique and inspiring. I want to go back to creating and need to find my voice. I am learning from you. Keep going!
"Art is oxygen and I need to breathe" 👏🏾 Soooo many gems dropped in this video. It was also beautiful to watch. Your editing style is amazing, timeless, and clean 🌠 Congrats on the merch launch, I love the Seek Discomfort crew 💕 P.S. My husband swears by Huel. I thought it was gross until I tried the peanut butter flavor 😉 Keep shining 👑
I liked the part a lot where you said about getting enough sleep and not thinking too much cause that doesn't lead us anywhere. Whenever I get stuck I watch your videos and everytime I do that I can feel myself growing and becoming my best self. I recently started bullet journaling and that has helped me a lot to learn about myself and my intention for life. Thank you. Amor fati.
This is such an inspiring video! One of my goals this year is to practice creativity for the sake of creativity. Without realizing it I’ve found myself so stuck on being productive that I’ve ignored my NEED for creativity. I teach my kids there’s no need to be perfect at what you’re doing in order to enjoy it but I rarely give myself that same grace. I see more happiness ahead this year. :)
As someone who has worked for myself for over 10 years in creative industries (writing and investing), I couldn't agree more with all of these ideas. Nathaniel, you're appealing to a fast-growing target market. There are tons of us out here that are trying to balance getting stuff done and managing ourselves. These are all great ideas. Thank you!
I love his point about how to listen and let out hardware AKA our mind/body to act as the vessels for our interpretation of our own creativity, pure genius. I love Nate’s channel!
I think it's also important to take into consideration what systemic forces might be bogging you down. If you have those forces you can't self-care yourself out of them as an individual. Understanding this can help with frustration.
this video made me tear up a bit. i recently discovered I have ADHD and for so many years I had no idea and thought something was horribly wrong with me and I kept pushing back against it. Now that I'm in therapy, and I know and I have support I've been working with it rather than against it. I have immense creativity but it can't flow unless I take care of myself. So daily I probably only spend 2-4 hours in creativity and the rest is for self care, sleeping enough, eating healthy, exercising, being bored, going on walks, watching my shows/movies that inspire me. YOU GET IT HAHA. But this video made me feel seen. So many people around me work for 12 hours a day making videos and when I do that my creativity plummets but now I can see things clearer, I know I am and what I want out of my videos and creativity and it just feels SO MUCH BETTER and more fun. And theres no rules. I create more now rather than feeling forced to keep up with the speed of it all. So thank you for making this. I think it will resonate with so many people.
Funny this video popped up. Lately, I've been on a mission to try to tap back into that intense creativity I used to have as a child. I miss that little girl who used to run through the forest, barefoot, creating worlds in her head and filling them with characters who would keep me company. I miss the little girl who decided to write an entire screenplay based off of three very minor characters in her favorite folk tale. I hated that as I got older, people always told me that I needed to "Get out of my fantasy world". Those were probably the most detrimental words anyone could have ever told me. But now, at the age of 28, I'm determined to delve back into my "fantasy world". To return to the land that once welcomed me with open arms. I've already noticed that my creativity has been a lot better and I've stopped telling myself I can't do certain things. This sense of creative freedom is something I haven't felt in so many years. ❤️
I agree with everything you said. I really like the creativity as a muscle that needs to be worked out analogy. I’m 63 and I am amazed at your thoughtful reflections on life!
That advice about boredom is really indispensable. I have to wonder how many creatives lived their life without really creating much because of how the internet took away all their boredom. I used to be really creative in highschool, but because of a combination of mental illness and "never having to be bored", I haven't created anything in a loooong time.
Wow this video is on another level, the message, the animation and practically everything else, it’s incredible! I agree that creativity is just trying everything and not thinking too much, and I feel like it’s something I still need to work on (while sleeping and taking breaks are my creativity’s life saviors here). Great video, I really needed that.
Thank you so much for this man. I’ve been feeling so burnt out because I’ve been working on my full time job as well as my side business and I’ve never given my time to relax since I feel like I’m wasting time when I’m just hanging out so I’d never do it. After haveing overwhelming anxiety and depression I’ve decided to let myself just take a day off to just relax and and do nothing. Thanks a lot for this man this video was a gem!
I was feeling like in a slump not too long ago. This video was perfectly timed. I personally belive that finding creativity is getting harder as we see/hear it everyday coming from everywhere. Then we start to mimic (something you pointed out). Finding your creative voice is a long process, I'm nearly 20 and I struggle to find it. But I'm going to do like you and take this as a long ride. Also my tia has a saying that's similar to what you belive, "amor fati," she believes "todo es bueno." Really resonates in a similar way.
I've been watching your videos for a while. I've found you to be one of my most genuine creators on UA-cam. I really appreciate that you are adding further evidence to the idea that we are all inherently valuable just by existing, and that peace can be found when we realize this. Thank you for your work, Nathaniel.
brilliant - I was actually just in a coffee shop working on writing a video with my friend yesterday. I had a rush of focus and flow and ideas were pouring onto a google doc for like...three to four hours straight lol. at the end I said to him, "I hate myself for doing work that way, I wish I had just done a little each day over time." And he replied, "Yeah but sometimes sitting down like you just did is the only way to get it done. You can't control when you're feeling like you're onto something." this video just basically affirmed that even though I might dislike the way I work on paper, it's still a valid process and can continue to work in the future :)
I have to confess, I'm NOT really very creative... at least not in an "artistic" way. I was drawn to this vid because I was hoping to steal a few tidbits to help me to think more creatively and maybe BECOME more creative. What I have come to appreciate about you is that (while you are extremely creative) you are willing to put yourself out there... to be open and vulnerable. And THAT (plus really great filmmaking) is what keeps me coming back. That's what I really want to bring to my own posts - a sense of authenticity. Some really good camera skills would be nice also, but mainly it is being able to connect with others in a totally real and relatable way, that makes all the difference. Thank you for continuing to do YOU!! Love the merch also!
I agree with the opinion that boredom is a key to creativity and it completely makes sense. I just love watching your videos, these videos are not just full of information but also provide messages for practical life.
One of the best perspectives pertaining to art & creativity that I've ever heard! None-the-less resonated with in a manner that is extremely difficult to verbalize!
Wow, I'm literally watching this in the middle of editing a project and worrying that I should just keep pushing through for 8 hours straight. Creativity really does come naturally in-between breaks and recharging, not long gruelling hours as if you're working a 9-5 job.
I really enjoyed many of these points particularly how you reject the whole idea of trying to "put in hours" when trying to be creative. Subtle point, but I also really appreciate that for the advertisement, you had a countdown clock. This gesture shows that you respect people's time over your own short-term profits or UA-cam statistics. Thank you, Nathaniel
This video is like I am hearing my first mentor. Word to word. I need to remind myself again. I am an designer and I work in a lot of fields. I am trying to get on new step working 24/7 and move out of the state and shift a lot of things and I found this advice very pure very good and trustful for all kind of artist. Thank you, my soul jut get back and I really enjoyed when you said art is like oxygen I need to breath it got me so deep. It is meaning of my life and I don't wanna to think where it will take me.
Every single sentence that came out of your mouth was so beautiful I had to pause multiple times throughout this video to let the words sink in to my heart. My absolute favorite was "Art is oxygen and I have to breathe". I mean... wow. I also really enjoyed the animation and very excited for the merch!
this is gold, I so needed to hear this. I am in the final weeks of my MA Architecture and been feeling very stressed, anxious and depressed about the work. Now I think I am finally having a breakthrough, but I will only get there by taking care of myself. Amazing content, you're such an inspiration!
You have to make yourself work to get creative task achieved, but time spent doesn’t translate to creative value. If it isn’t perfectly clear I’m not disagreeing I’m just further expounding on this thought.
Nathaniel… you are certainly an amazing creator. Simply amazing! Graphics, lighting, special effects, editing, audio, story, presentation… all absolutely amazing!
I have to say animations in this video were another level , so well done and helped the content! I think we have to thank your brother for that ? So talented , great job.
Hey Nathaniel 👋 thanks for this video - it's one of your stand out pieces and i love how the graphics are just there to amplify your points and don't distract from it.
Nathaniel, absolutely right there with you on the entirety of the content in this video. Thanks for putting this out there, SO many more people need to understand these truths. Also, love the dope animations as always!
WHAT THE... Dude, this is just MIND BLOWING!!! This video is just out of this world. The moment you begun talking I just had this huge grin on my face, your positive energy is sooo contagious. And the animations?! Wow, just wow. One of the best videos I've seen on this platform...
Thanks Nathaniel, I needed this! Lately so frustrated with a project. I've been trying for months to just put a structure to it. I just know it has to be done. I really appreciate you mentioning meaningful quotes from the great thinkers. They have a way of saying things that make a light bulb go off in your head.
Art is oxygen, and I have to breathe... such a good line man. Reminds me of something Jerry Seinfeld once said when asked what his favorite joke was. "The joke that gets me to the next joke. Like what is your favorite breath? the one that gets me to the next breath" Best to you man. One of these days hopefully our time in Mexico City will line up and hope to meet you on that day!
I found your advice extremely helpful and not just that, hopeful too. I often wonder how I can expand my creativity and how to maintain that creative energy and your tips and ideas have planted me in a more positive direction for my life. Thank you, Nathaniel.
Great video! Purposely walking away from whatever I’m working on to clear my mind helps in so many way. Most often, the solution to the problem I’ve been trying to solve appears out of the blue when I step away and go for a walk. It’s invigorating! Also, your brother is doing amazing work with these motion graphics.
Also the editing in this video is so well done. It just feels right. Blends in so naturally to the video. Been a while since I’ve seen one of your videos and I’m glad the good old youtube algorithm brought me here.
I work as a management consultant and practically everything said in this video is antithetical to what you learn in business school. There is no right or wrong -- it depends on the problem you're trying to solve and the individual (or team) trying to solve it. Love your work.
Beautiful video Nathaniel! You manage to communicate in such a clear poetic way that it seems like every word must be written down, and yet it's so natural that it simultaneously seems like nothing is scripted.
I definitely agree with you on some level. I personally struggle sometimes with my creative work. When I create to publish content or further my career, I often forget why I create in the first place. I lose track of this need to express myself and learn about myself through art. Then I get into a slump and my art feels less honest, like a shadow of what it used to be. Then I have to come back to those first principles and only create for myself before sharing anything with the world. It's a struggle to find balance and I guess that's what makes the whole process interesting.
Josh this is so nice what you wrote, touching. I've read it many times. It's honest and astute and what artist can't relate? Well I'm prejudiced, the "learn about myself through art", is a high calling. Just think of the artists who have worked that way. Flipping back and forth because you have to make a living is probably an unavoidable sacrifice that might lead to you figuring out how to do that without getting bummed out. Wishing you the very best. note: Patty Smith writes every morning, always has, even when the kids were young, very early before they got up. That says so much. She never lost track of herself! Obviously.
@@susand484 Yeah it really is a difficult nut to crack. I find myself falling out of love with the craft sometimes and that’s hard on the mental. And I’m new to this whole world so I’m mostly learning. Thank you for the encouragement and also I appreciate the note on Patty Smith. Maybe starting the day by creating for myself might just provide the right headspace to work!
This video is very profound. I feel you touched a couple of subjects that I really identify with/ I feel like actively setting a goal to be "creative" for around 4 hours. has made me a much more efficient, well rounded, and happy person. The idea that creativity (and learning) is not linear is something that has to be implemented in the way our society thinks of these processes.
I really needed to watch this video. Sometimes we are so hard on ourselves! It happens to me a lot, always wanting to reach the most creative and clever ideas without thinking this won't happen by magic; it needs nurturing. Thanks for your video!
I really started to think I was a lazy person that finishes all the work in the same amount of hours but with less work but really sleeping and taking a lot of breaks helps me be very creative and productive. Thank you for explaining this to us !!!
Really your editing skills astonished me for a while. In fact after watching this video two times I subscribed your channel , reason behind this act is your editing and high vedio quality. Generally in my country there are few content creators like you.
I so miss having someone like you in my life. So thankful for the internet and the possibility to, through UA-cam, have a glimpse of your energy in my life. Ordered your Amor Fati hoodie yesterday. So excited for it to arrive here in Germany :).
This is so soo sooo good!! Right on Nathaniel👍Art is oxygen. Don’t think, just do. Feel the buzz. There is no getting there. Well said!!!! You nailed here buddy! As a creative. I agree 110% You nailed it 🙏❤️
The animations felt like from a disney movie - bright, fun, cool, captivating! Awesome video quality and loved all the points you made, definitely learned some new things about creativity!
All great advice! One thing I would add is how Robert Lax (Poet, mystic....) approached problems, HE SLOWED DOWN AND HE WAITED. You just can't rush things as much as we all want to. Thanks for sharing what you have learned over the years, at 69 I am just starting to understand these things!
Brooooooooooooooooooooooooooo YOUR advice combined with your sound design and video editing skills is a truly perfect matrimony of Entertaining Education
Okay, first of all - your editorial skills are mind blowing( so aesthetic !). And second, you are one of the small amounts of human beings who charge me with excitement for life. Thank you❤️
I don’t know how, but man you somehow always drop a video on the right subject at the right time for me. Thank you very much for sharing your thoughts on here because it really does help!
Aweomse video, loved it! I really like how you put a timer on the sponsored segment, probably one of the first sponsored segments I've voluntarily sat through because I knew it wouldn't be too long, plus I love hearing your take too
I looove that you're sponsored by Huel! Me and my boyfriend started with huel 3 months ago because of snacking + post workout re-fuel, and it's the best. Haven't seen another creator sponsored by them so this is awesome!!
Wow! This message really spoke to me. As an art student it’s often hard to not get frustrated when projects don’t go they way you wanted them to. This video really reminded me to take breaks more often and let creativity flow through you like it wants to. I really don’t think we can control it, it controls us.
How does your production quality keep getting better and better in every video?! Damn! Thank you for this, your points are really invaluable for a new creator like me! 😇🙏🏽
Thank you for this video. This has helped me break past my self imposed limitations and FINALLY post my first (of many to come) music related content. Amazing!
I've been subscribed to you for probably two or three years now, and this is easily my favorite video of yours so far. I feel like as a creative person I've heard that I'm not going to make any money after I graduate college with my creative skills and I have constantly wished I was better at math or science so I could major and start a career in something that won't make me financially stressed. but this video gave me a new perspective on my creative passions. thank you drew
Exactly this! We are so focused on getting in 40 somewhat hours a week, but honestly to me it is so much more productive to completely let that go. What you said: what will help more - staring at a screen for x hours trying to make it work. - getting inspired by the outside world and in the end being able to create in a much deeper way even. Thanks for this video
thank you so much for exploring this topic-it could not have come at a better time for me!! as a young person in college who has a good idea of what creative path he wants to take in life/work but has trouble starting to put it into practice, i have been thinking a lot about being creative recently. after watching and thinking about this video, i feel so much more motivated to leave myself space for boredom and let my creative juices flow 🌄
I loved this video so much! I am not an "active artist" but your words speak to me. This NATURAL way of experiencing things is useful for everything. Thank you as always!!
best video i’ve seen in yeeeeears and god knows how many videos I watch everyday !! cette vidéo m’a tellement perturbée je me suis sentie visée/inspirée c’était étrange aha mais juste WOW thank you for that !! maybe one day we’ll come across each other in Paris 🤞🏼
Nate like how can your videos get better and better!?!?!? like they're so good! I love the topics you normally gravitate towards and this one was just perfect for me just rn. A different perspective on creativity that's incredibly true, it has happened to me so many times that the task that took me 2 hours one day... on a rested mind I'm literally done in 15 min. Thanks for your videos! on my way to get me some merch 😝
Literally worked 4 hours today and I was like “I need to take a walk to think more creatively when I’m back” I agree - take better care of yourself. I find better sleep is always a good antidote to brain fog!
You only have 4 hours of 'mental energy' a day Like how you can only Sprint for 10-20 sec at max speed a day
@@rajunaidu7751 not sure it’s 4 hours my friend I ran a business for 18 months before this and was working 16 hours per day. It wasn’t sustainable but I was able to do it for a short period of time. Would love to know where you found that you only have 4 hours of mental energy? That would be great to know as I love learning and have never read any literature to support that hypothesis. However, that doesn’t mean it’s not true! Please let me know look forward to learning more!
You can’t mentally work for 8 hours straight. Maybe you can but it’s not sustainable. I used to work as consultant in a technical field (engineering). The majority of my day was occupied by writing worksite specifications, technical reports and service proposals. So basically, being creative in a technical way. I was mentally exhausted at the end of my 40h week. Even though I tried to take an hour long lunch break and some coffee breaks here and there, I felt like I was always reaching the limits of my mental capacities.
@@ShaunHolden you've definitely read How to win friends and influence people
@@KevinPetersdp I may or may not have had it in my hand about 2 hours ago too! 🤔 haha! How are you Kevin? How long have you followed Nathaniel for? Nice to meet you albeit virtually!
Incredible video! I love the advice, graphics and animations. The point about being bored really resonates with me - it reminds me of that great video you made where you went into a lonely winter cabin in the middle of the woods. No distractions, just paper, books and lots of time to get bored and be creative! Very refreshing!
Does anyone have any idea how he did does light animations? They were beautiful and so captivating.
@@zacharyramsumair23 He has a Brother that does animations
@@Xanderex98 thanks so much. You are godsent
Can we just take a moment to appreciate the animations in this video? Amazing work, Nathan!
Dude it was great. Do youhave any idea how he did does light animations? They were beautiful and so captivating.
I think he's said before on one of the Patreon streams that his brother does the animations!
They are soo Good!
He lighted up man, I loved
Your editing skills are truly amazing! You did nothing but just sit in front of a camera and talk, but all the little edits grabbed my attention so much and made me feel intrigued. Your creative expression is a true inspiration to me!
I believe they’re made by his brother! Nathaniel did a Q&A with him on the “No Backup Plan” UA-cam page
The little graphics and the sound design behind them... "*chefs kiss* "You're getting better and better at this Nathaniel!
I. Creativity - 00:37
II. Art is Not a War - 03:10
III. Boredom is a Superpower - 06:19
IV. Don't Think - 07:34
V. Creativity is Like a Muscle - 09:37
VI. Developing Your Own Voice - 10:18
The book "the war of art" is not about creativity being a war, it's about the resistance and procrastination.
Tq
THE LEGEND HERE ^^^^^^
I love the how you had the hat on, but didn’t say anything until the end.. it made me laugh to myself, and I think just that small part of your well crafted video shows why I keep watching your videos.
It's ridiculous to think about how long I've known you and how far you've been in literally everything, storytelling, editing, visuals. Feels like it packs a perfect punch every time! Thanks NATHANIEL
My man, every time the edits blow my mind with how good they are, the next video takes it to ANOTHER level. You wizard.
This has to be my most favorite of your videos Nate! I loved your quote: “Art is oxygen and I HAVE to breathe.” I felt so inspired and reassured by the ideas and concepts you shared about how to be creative. Totally added to my favorites playlist for future use. Thank you! Also i would love to buy some new merch, congrats!!!
Damn just 1:57 into the video and I paused to say how much I appreciate the light you give out. It's like i can sense its not just words and nice videos, but you're really excited about life and sharing what you learn
I agree, the war of art is a strange book, viewing creativity as a war is a strange and unhealthy perspective. I prefer to view it as play, I don't force anything, I just let myself drift towards what I'm naturally attracted to in the moment.
💯 👍 "Almost all creativity requires purposeful play." ~ Abraham Maslow
thats an amateur's approach. not conducive to an actual career in art
@@gabriellas amateurs approach is the play or the war?
Thank you so much for mentioning The War of Art! I received it as a gift from a friend and I felt the exact same way about creativity and how I work as a creative. This was really reassuring.
I love the fact your videos are edited to the point that I think u got a whole team of editors. It makes it so easy to keep up with what you're talking about.
this is more like " find your people in the same community". it hits me again by the idea of creativity. You are such a great story teller that I wish I could become. thank you for sharing.
For me, the biggest creativity boost comes from meditation. The first 5 minutes of "cooling down" mentally are just flooded with ideas. Can only recommend!
You can definitely be proud of this video Nathaniel!
man the quality of this video is sooo good the animations ahhhh and the content also so deep and relatable
Whoa, these animations are next level! Very insightful as always, and timely!
I just finished editing one of my first videos and the itching feeling you talked about it's really there. Right before starting watching your video I tried to understand how I feel because I've never felt that and you gave me a lot of clarity and a big smile! Also I agree with you. Art is not a war, art is peace of mind.
I am a teacher and was given the opportunity to teach from 8 to 11:30 and end my day at 12. I felt so much better on that schedule. it gave me time to relax, get personal things done, and more time to be a better teacher.
As a part time creator, I've had to find ways to stay productive while avoiding burnout. It can be tough sometimes. You try and balance work, family, and video making and it can be hard. But the more I create, the more I find that little breaks and smaller chunks of work fit better than trying to force everything all at one time. My production process is pretty long and it can be frustrating at times to feel like I need to do more, but it almost always benefits me to rest, so that advice resonated with me and validated something I was already feeling. Thanks for another great video!
My favorite part of your clips is when you voice over your philosophical thoughts over visuals of your adventures, it’s just stunning to watch.
I am 66 years old and on the cusp of retiring. I find your videos unique and inspiring. I want to go back to creating and need to find my voice. I am learning from you. Keep going!
i HATE how good of editing you always have. Teach me your ways master. such a great vid
"Art is oxygen and I need to breathe" 👏🏾 Soooo many gems dropped in this video. It was also beautiful to watch. Your editing style is amazing, timeless, and clean 🌠 Congrats on the merch launch, I love the Seek Discomfort crew 💕 P.S. My husband swears by Huel. I thought it was gross until I tried the peanut butter flavor 😉 Keep shining 👑
I liked the part a lot where you said about getting enough sleep and not thinking too much cause that doesn't lead us anywhere. Whenever I get stuck I watch your videos and everytime I do that I can feel myself growing and becoming my best self. I recently started bullet journaling and that has helped me a lot to learn about myself and my intention for life. Thank you. Amor fati.
This is such an inspiring video! One of my goals this year is to practice creativity for the sake of creativity. Without realizing it I’ve found myself so stuck on being productive that I’ve ignored my NEED for creativity. I teach my kids there’s no need to be perfect at what you’re doing in order to enjoy it but I rarely give myself that same grace. I see more happiness ahead this year. :)
As someone who has worked for myself for over 10 years in creative industries (writing and investing), I couldn't agree more with all of these ideas. Nathaniel, you're appealing to a fast-growing target market. There are tons of us out here that are trying to balance getting stuff done and managing ourselves. These are all great ideas. Thank you!
I love his point about how to listen and let out hardware AKA our mind/body to act as the vessels for our interpretation of our own creativity, pure genius. I love Nate’s channel!
Does anyone have any idea how he did does light animations? They were beautiful and so captivating.
I think it's also important to take into consideration what systemic forces might be bogging you down. If you have those forces you can't self-care yourself out of them as an individual. Understanding this can help with frustration.
The editing in this video was soooo good 🤌🤌
this video made me tear up a bit. i recently discovered I have ADHD and for so many years I had no idea and thought something was horribly wrong with me and I kept pushing back against it. Now that I'm in therapy, and I know and I have support I've been working with it rather than against it. I have immense creativity but it can't flow unless I take care of myself. So daily I probably only spend 2-4 hours in creativity and the rest is for self care, sleeping enough, eating healthy, exercising, being bored, going on walks, watching my shows/movies that inspire me. YOU GET IT HAHA. But this video made me feel seen. So many people around me work for 12 hours a day making videos and when I do that my creativity plummets but now I can see things clearer, I know I am and what I want out of my videos and creativity and it just feels SO MUCH BETTER and more fun. And theres no rules. I create more now rather than feeling forced to keep up with the speed of it all. So thank you for making this. I think it will resonate with so many people.
ALSO- I am really stoked to buy that hat haha :)
Funny this video popped up. Lately, I've been on a mission to try to tap back into that intense creativity I used to have as a child. I miss that little girl who used to run through the forest, barefoot, creating worlds in her head and filling them with characters who would keep me company. I miss the little girl who decided to write an entire screenplay based off of three very minor characters in her favorite folk tale. I hated that as I got older, people always told me that I needed to "Get out of my fantasy world". Those were probably the most detrimental words anyone could have ever told me. But now, at the age of 28, I'm determined to delve back into my "fantasy world". To return to the land that once welcomed me with open arms. I've already noticed that my creativity has been a lot better and I've stopped telling myself I can't do certain things. This sense of creative freedom is something I haven't felt in so many years. ❤️
The editing in this video is next level.
I agree with everything you said. I really like the creativity as a muscle that needs to be worked out analogy. I’m 63 and I am amazed at your thoughtful reflections on life!
Broo those animations and graphics perfectly complement the storytelling! Awesome!
That advice about boredom is really indispensable. I have to wonder how many creatives lived their life without really creating much because of how the internet took away all their boredom. I used to be really creative in highschool, but because of a combination of mental illness and "never having to be bored", I haven't created anything in a loooong time.
How many animations can you put in one video?
Nathaniel: yes
Really love this shift in direction when compared to your old videos. It seems like you're flowing with life now rather than trying to force it.
Wow this video is on another level, the message, the animation and practically everything else, it’s incredible! I agree that creativity is just trying everything and not thinking too much, and I feel like it’s something I still need to work on (while sleeping and taking breaks are my creativity’s life saviors here). Great video, I really needed that.
Thank you so much for this man. I’ve been feeling so burnt out because I’ve been working on my full time job as well as my side business and I’ve never given my time to relax since I feel like I’m wasting time when I’m just hanging out so I’d never do it. After haveing overwhelming anxiety and depression I’ve decided to let myself just take a day off to just relax and and do nothing. Thanks a lot for this man this video was a gem!
I was feeling like in a slump not too long ago. This video was perfectly timed. I personally belive that finding creativity is getting harder as we see/hear it everyday coming from everywhere. Then we start to mimic (something you pointed out). Finding your creative voice is a long process, I'm nearly 20 and I struggle to find it. But I'm going to do like you and take this as a long ride.
Also my tia has a saying that's similar to what you belive, "amor fati," she believes "todo es bueno." Really resonates in a similar way.
I've been watching your videos for a while. I've found you to be one of my most genuine creators on UA-cam. I really appreciate that you are adding further evidence to the idea that we are all inherently valuable just by existing, and that peace can be found when we realize this. Thank you for your work, Nathaniel.
brilliant - I was actually just in a coffee shop working on writing a video with my friend yesterday. I had a rush of focus and flow and ideas were pouring onto a google doc for like...three to four hours straight lol. at the end I said to him, "I hate myself for doing work that way, I wish I had just done a little each day over time." And he replied, "Yeah but sometimes sitting down like you just did is the only way to get it done. You can't control when you're feeling like you're onto something." this video just basically affirmed that even though I might dislike the way I work on paper, it's still a valid process and can continue to work in the future :)
I have to confess, I'm NOT really very creative... at least not in an "artistic" way. I was drawn to this vid because I was hoping to steal a few tidbits to help me to think more creatively and maybe BECOME more creative. What I have come to appreciate about you is that (while you are extremely creative) you are willing to put yourself out there... to be open and vulnerable. And THAT (plus really great filmmaking) is what keeps me coming back. That's what I really want to bring to my own posts - a sense of authenticity. Some really good camera skills would be nice also, but mainly it is being able to connect with others in a totally real and relatable way, that makes all the difference. Thank you for continuing to do YOU!! Love the merch also!
I agree with the opinion that boredom is a key to creativity and it completely makes sense. I just love watching your videos, these videos are not just full of information but also provide messages for practical life.
“Art is not a war” got me - would love to see you do a whole video on that concept & your perspective
One of the best perspectives pertaining to art & creativity that I've ever heard! None-the-less resonated with in a manner that is extremely difficult to verbalize!
Wow, I'm literally watching this in the middle of editing a project and worrying that I should just keep pushing through for 8 hours straight. Creativity really does come naturally in-between breaks and recharging, not long gruelling hours as if you're working a 9-5 job.
I really enjoyed many of these points particularly how you reject the whole idea of trying to "put in hours" when trying to be creative.
Subtle point, but I also really appreciate that for the advertisement, you had a countdown clock. This gesture shows that you respect people's time over your own short-term profits or UA-cam statistics.
Thank you, Nathaniel
This video is like I am hearing my first mentor. Word to word. I need to remind myself again. I am an designer and I work in a lot of fields. I am trying to get on new step working 24/7 and move out of the state and shift a lot of things and I found this advice very pure very good and trustful for all kind of artist. Thank you, my soul jut get back and I really enjoyed when you said art is like oxygen I need to breath it got me so deep. It is meaning of my life and I don't wanna to think where it will take me.
Every single sentence that came out of your mouth was so beautiful I had to pause multiple times throughout this video to let the words sink in to my heart.
My absolute favorite was "Art is oxygen and I have to breathe". I mean... wow.
I also really enjoyed the animation and very excited for the merch!
this is gold, I so needed to hear this. I am in the final weeks of my MA Architecture and been feeling very stressed, anxious and depressed about the work. Now I think I am finally having a breakthrough, but I will only get there by taking care of myself. Amazing content, you're such an inspiration!
Thanks!
Loved the message and animation of all the graphs. Especially the part with time worked not equating to creative output, that really hit home for me.
You have to make yourself work to get creative task achieved, but time spent doesn’t translate to creative value. If it isn’t perfectly clear I’m not disagreeing I’m just further expounding on this thought.
@@JonJosephKuhn whats up my brotha!
@@DerekBearzi yo brother!
Does anyone have any idea how he did does light animations? They were beautiful and so captivating.
The animations, sound design, and message of this video is incredible. An inspiration and one of your best so far.
Does anyone have any idea how he did does light animations? They were beautiful and so captivating.
1. the information in this video, INCREDIBLE. 2. your animations make me happy, thanks!
Nathaniel… you are certainly an amazing creator. Simply amazing! Graphics, lighting, special effects, editing, audio, story, presentation… all absolutely amazing!
I have to say animations in this video were another level , so well done and helped the content! I think we have to thank your brother for that ? So talented , great job.
Does anyone have any idea how he did does light animations? They were beautiful and so captivating.
Hey Nathaniel 👋 thanks for this video - it's one of your stand out pieces and i love how the graphics are just there to amplify your points and don't distract from it.
Nathaniel, absolutely right there with you on the entirety of the content in this video. Thanks for putting this out there, SO many more people need to understand these truths. Also, love the dope animations as always!
WHAT THE... Dude, this is just MIND BLOWING!!! This video is just out of this world. The moment you begun talking I just had this huge grin on my face, your positive energy is sooo contagious. And the animations?! Wow, just wow. One of the best videos I've seen on this platform...
WHAT A VIDEO. One of your most compelling. Loved it loved it loved it. Thank you for your work!
Thanks Nathaniel, I needed this! Lately so frustrated with a project. I've been trying for months to just put a structure to it. I just know it has to be done. I really appreciate you mentioning meaningful quotes from the great thinkers. They have a way of saying things that make a light bulb go off in your head.
Art is oxygen, and I have to breathe... such a good line man. Reminds me of something Jerry Seinfeld once said when asked what his favorite joke was. "The joke that gets me to the next joke. Like what is your favorite breath? the one that gets me to the next breath" Best to you man. One of these days hopefully our time in Mexico City will line up and hope to meet you on that day!
I found your advice extremely helpful and not just that, hopeful too. I often wonder how I can expand my creativity and how to maintain that creative energy and your tips and ideas have planted me in a more positive direction for my life. Thank you, Nathaniel.
These videos are so dam refreshing. Please continue to drop these gems. And I’m also loving how you and the yes theory team are collaborating.
Great video! Purposely walking away from whatever I’m working on to clear my mind helps in so many way. Most often, the solution to the problem I’ve been trying to solve appears out of the blue when I step away and go for a walk. It’s invigorating! Also, your brother is doing amazing work with these motion graphics.
I adore the way you speak, so eloquent and a sense of humor too. You are my favorite youtuber and I absolutely love your content, thank you!
Also the editing in this video is so well done. It just feels right. Blends in so naturally to the video. Been a while since I’ve seen one of your videos and I’m glad the good old youtube algorithm brought me here.
I work as a management consultant and practically everything said in this video is antithetical to what you learn in business school. There is no right or wrong -- it depends on the problem you're trying to solve and the individual (or team) trying to solve it. Love your work.
Beautiful video Nathaniel! You manage to communicate in such a clear poetic way that it seems like every word must be written down, and yet it's so natural that it simultaneously seems like nothing is scripted.
damn bro even ur sit n talk kinda videos are very engaging. super job
I definitely agree with you on some level. I personally struggle sometimes with my creative work. When I create to publish content or further my career, I often forget why I create in the first place. I lose track of this need to express myself and learn about myself through art. Then I get into a slump and my art feels less honest, like a shadow of what it used to be. Then I have to come back to those first principles and only create for myself before sharing anything with the world. It's a struggle to find balance and I guess that's what makes the whole process interesting.
Josh this is so nice what you wrote, touching. I've read it many times. It's honest and astute and what artist can't relate? Well I'm prejudiced, the "learn about myself through art", is a high calling. Just think of the artists who have worked that way. Flipping back and forth because you have to make a living is probably an unavoidable sacrifice that might lead to you figuring out how to do that without getting bummed out. Wishing you the very best. note: Patty Smith writes every morning, always has, even when the kids were young, very early before they got up. That says so much. She never lost track of herself! Obviously.
@@susand484 Yeah it really is a difficult nut to crack. I find myself falling out of love with the craft sometimes and that’s hard on the mental. And I’m new to this whole world so I’m mostly learning. Thank you for the encouragement and also I appreciate the note on Patty Smith. Maybe starting the day by creating for myself might just provide the right headspace to work!
This video is very profound.
I feel you touched a couple of subjects that I really identify with/
I feel like actively setting a goal to be "creative" for around 4 hours. has made me a much more efficient, well rounded, and happy person.
The idea that creativity (and learning) is not linear is something that has to be implemented in the way our society thinks of these processes.
I really needed to watch this video. Sometimes we are so hard on ourselves! It happens to me a lot, always wanting to reach the most creative and clever ideas without thinking this won't happen by magic; it needs nurturing. Thanks for your video!
I really started to think I was a lazy person that finishes all the work in the same amount of hours but with less work but really sleeping and taking a lot of breaks helps me be very creative and productive. Thank you for explaining this to us !!!
Really your editing skills astonished me for a while. In fact after watching this video two times I subscribed your channel , reason behind this act is your editing and high vedio quality. Generally in my country there are few content creators like you.
I so miss having someone like you in my life. So thankful for the internet and the possibility to, through UA-cam, have a glimpse of your energy in my life. Ordered your Amor Fati hoodie yesterday. So excited for it to arrive here in Germany :).
This is so soo sooo good!! Right on Nathaniel👍Art is oxygen. Don’t think, just do. Feel the buzz. There is no getting there. Well said!!!! You nailed here buddy! As a creative. I agree 110%
You nailed it 🙏❤️
The animations felt like from a disney movie - bright, fun, cool, captivating! Awesome video quality and loved all the points you made, definitely learned some new things about creativity!
All great advice! One thing I would add is how Robert Lax (Poet, mystic....) approached problems, HE SLOWED DOWN AND HE WAITED. You just can't rush things as much as we all want to. Thanks for sharing what you have learned over the years, at 69 I am just starting to understand these things!
i couldn't take my eyes away, but to watch this🙌🏻 usually i dont watch colloquial videos, but yours is just on another level
truly amazed
Brooooooooooooooooooooooooooo
YOUR advice combined with your sound design and video editing skills is a truly perfect matrimony of Entertaining Education
Okay, first of all - your editorial skills are mind blowing( so aesthetic !). And second, you are one of the small amounts of human beings who charge me with excitement for life. Thank you❤️
I don’t know how, but man you somehow always drop a video on the right subject at the right time for me. Thank you very much for sharing your thoughts on here because it really does help!
The editing on this one was juste remarkable Nathaniel. So much insights. Thank you!
Aweomse video, loved it! I really like how you put a timer on the sponsored segment, probably one of the first sponsored segments I've voluntarily sat through because I knew it wouldn't be too long, plus I love hearing your take too
I looove that you're sponsored by Huel! Me and my boyfriend started with huel 3 months ago because of snacking + post workout re-fuel, and it's the best. Haven't seen another creator sponsored by them so this is awesome!!
Wow! This message really spoke to me. As an art student it’s often hard to not get frustrated when projects don’t go they way you wanted them to. This video really reminded me to take breaks more often and let creativity flow through you like it wants to. I really don’t think we can control it, it controls us.
How does your production quality keep getting better and better in every video?! Damn!
Thank you for this, your points are really invaluable for a new creator like me! 😇🙏🏽
Does anyone have any idea how he did does light animations? They were beautiful and so captivating.
Thank you for this video. This has helped me break past my self imposed limitations and FINALLY post my first (of many to come) music related content. Amazing!
I've been subscribed to you for probably two or three years now, and this is easily my favorite video of yours so far. I feel like as a creative person I've heard that I'm not going to make any money after I graduate college with my creative skills and I have constantly wished I was better at math or science so I could major and start a career in something that won't make me financially stressed. but this video gave me a new perspective on my creative passions. thank you drew
The coincidence though! You had to post this just when I needed it! 😌
Exactly this! We are so focused on getting in 40 somewhat hours a week, but honestly to me it is so much more productive to completely let that go. What you said: what will help more
- staring at a screen for x hours trying to make it work.
- getting inspired by the outside world and in the end being able to create in a much deeper way even.
Thanks for this video
thank you so much for exploring this topic-it could not have come at a better time for me!! as a young person in college who has a good idea of what creative path he wants to take in life/work but has trouble starting to put it into practice, i have been thinking a lot about being creative recently. after watching and thinking about this video, i feel so much more motivated to leave myself space for boredom and let my creative juices flow 🌄
I loved this video so much! I am not an "active artist" but your words speak to me. This NATURAL way of experiencing things is useful for everything. Thank you as always!!
Wow, that editing was on another level. You are getting so good!
best video i’ve seen in yeeeeears and god knows how many videos I watch everyday !! cette vidéo m’a tellement perturbée je me suis sentie visée/inspirée c’était étrange aha mais juste WOW thank you for that !! maybe one day we’ll come across each other in Paris 🤞🏼
Nate like how can your videos get better and better!?!?!? like they're so good! I love the topics you normally gravitate towards and this one was just perfect for me just rn. A different perspective on creativity that's incredibly true, it has happened to me so many times that the task that took me 2 hours one day... on a rested mind I'm literally done in 15 min. Thanks for your videos! on my way to get me some merch 😝
Thank you so much. I’ll need to watch this many times