The undeniable urge to innovate is an innate human feature
Whether through art, writing, or even seemingly logical ventures like startups, the urge to create strikes all of us.
Specific brain regions specialize in different tasks; the idea that we use only the ‘left’ for logic and the ‘right’ for creativity is an oversimplification. In reality, our brains operate as an integrated network—engaging both sides fosters divergent thinking and innovation.
That impulse—when embraced—leads to unexpected adventures, shaping who we are and revealing what truly matters to us. Ignoring them can foster tension, frustration, and unfulfilled potential. Don't overlook this itch to build; it's an essential, human outlet.
Creating, Building, and Innovating is as human as it gets
But where does this impulse come from? Why do we feel such urgency to bring our ideas to life?
The inherent desire to create and build is not merely a preference but a deeply ingrained aspect of being human.
We can observe psychology, philosophy, and even anthropology—all studies account for the human behavior that drives innovation.
Psychologist Carl Rogers described an 'Actualizing Tendency'—our innate drive to fulfill our potential and bring ideas into reality. When people say 'we’re all unique individuals,' that uniqueness also applies to how we express our ideas. Our influences shape our unique visions, but all creative expressions share one thing—resilience.
Like flowers through concrete, our urge to create finds a way. When stifled, it doesn’t disappear—it distresses us. We can achieve this by not fighting the craving to turn imagination into reality.
If our ancestors had suppressed their urge to innovate, we wouldn’t enjoy the progress we have today, nor would we have a foundation for future development.
I don’t know how many times I’ve been struck by lightning
There have been many instances in my life where I’ve experienced the exhilarating desire to pursue something. I can’t put my finger on exactly how to describe that feeling. It’s like being struck by lightning—but instead of burning you, it ignites you. You don’t walk away unchanged. Something shifts inside—a clarity, a direction, or even just a spark that won’t leave you alone.
The first time I felt this was when I aspired to be in the field of Public Relations. I still consider that time to be a pivotal moment when I found my ikigai. I wasn’t even aware that the profession existed, but somehow, it resonated with me. I knew that I had to be a publicist.
Driven by a desire to test my theories on media optimization, I created my blog and website. Within a month of posting articles, they garnered significant views and even generated modest revenue, confirming that my instincts about the media landscape were right.
There’s still the story of my NFT Gym Membership venture and the startup I’m currently building—but those deserve stories of their own.
That urge to build something may not always lead to success, but it always leads you back to yourself.
Chasing these ideas came as naturally as breathing air to me. Quite literally, my body moves in pursuit of building them. Writing is also an outlet I enjoy, as it puts me in the ‘flow state.’
I recognize that not everyone experiences this intense urge to create. And that's okay. However, if you've ever felt even a small pull toward something that could genuinely bring you happiness—like the kind portrayed in The Pursuit of Happyness—I strongly encourage you to explore every passion or curiosity you encounter.
Every creative journey may be unpredictable, but it’s always fulfilling. It’s not about perfection or outcomes—it’s about honoring the part of you that refuses to stay quiet.