To create is to be creative. It may seem like a redundant statement, but I believe it’s worth repeating. Creativity is not just about artistry—it’s about putting something into the world rather than always consuming what’s handed to us. We live in a world constantly urging us to consume, from social media scrolling to binge-watching TV shows. This constant consumption can make it hard to tap into our own creative abilities. It’s a cycle that can feel impossible to break if we’re not intentional about it.

However, some people, even amidst this pressure to consume, still find a way to leave their mark on the world. I see you, and I appreciate you. It takes real skill, effort, and creativity to push past the noise and create something meaningful. Meaningful is subjective, so as long as it’s meaningful to you, that’s all that matters. As long as you’re doing some creating to balance out the ample amount of consumption around us.

The one thing with creativity and creating, though, is that it can be a struggle. So, if you’re like me, and share values aligned with being an OG Millennial, you probably go through some internal battle to break the cycle of constant consumption. You feel that urge to tap into your creative side but you often aren’t sure where to begin. Well, I’ve got a hack that’s worked for me, and I feel compelled to share. Whether you’re just starting your creative journey or looking to elevate your craft, these steps will help you move from 0 to 1. The rest is up to you.

Step 1: Discover What You Love to Consume

To be creative, you don’t need to get ultra strict with yourself and completely stop consuming. As OG Millennials, we understand the importance of balance. Start by observing your everyday life. What are the things you love to consume? It could be anything:

• Food (e.g., trying new dishes or experimenting in the kitchen)

• Music (e.g., enjoying certain genres or sounds)

• Movies and TV shows (e.g., a particular director or genre)

• Social media (e.g., certain types of content or creators)

• Sports (e.g., basketball, golf, etc.)

• Podcasts, books, YouTube videos

Take note of what you consume often and with genuine interest. For me, it’s reading. I love acquiring new knowledge through books and articles.

Step 2: Identify the Specifics You Enjoy

Once you’ve pinpointed what you love, dive deeper into the specific aspects you enjoy most about it. Get as detailed as possible. It could be:

• The transitions in YouTube videos

• The commentary on TikTok

• The bass drops in your favorite tracks

• The flavors in your favorite restaurant dish

• The precision of your favorite makeup artist’s technique

• The ambiance of a well-designed bar

For me, it’s the perfectly crafted paragraph. That sweet spot where it’s not too long, not too short, but just enough to keep you engaged and make you pause with appreciation. That’s what ignites my creativity.

Step 3: Choose Your Mode of Communication

Now that you know what excites you, it’s time to decide how you’ll communicate your creativity. There are three main modes of communication, and thanks to technology in 2025, your options are within these three modes are almost endless. The three main modes of communication are:

• Photo

• Video

• Written

For me, it’s writing. I’m on a quest to create my own version of the perfect paragraph. You might choose video or photography—it’s all about what aligns with your strengths and interests.

Step 4: Just Do It

This is often the hardest part. The fear of failure, judgment, and imposter syndrome can stop many people before they even start. My advice? Creativity is deeply personal. It’s unique to you, and by nature, it will never be like anything else out there.

Your creation doesn’t need to be perfect—it just needs to be yours. Only you get to decide what’s good and creative for you. Don’t let the external noise stifle your ability to create.

Step 5: Focus on Progress, Not Perfection

Now, the final hurdle: perfection. We’ve all heard it before—perfection is impossible. Every piece of work can be improved, but the goal is to progress. “Progress over Perfection” is one of my mottos, and I encourage you to embrace it. The key is continuous improvement—each creation will be better than the last.