.Sunday, June 13, 2010 ' 1:25 PM Y
Upon seeing this phrase 'self-reflection leads to creativity or depression?', many questions and theories began to appear in my mind. It may seem absurd that a simple method of self-reflection can end up to a depressed state of mind.
What defines self-reflection? On the surface, this word actually means to reflect on oneself, processing thoughts and need be, to make changes for the better. As we advance deeper within the meaning of this word, is there actually a chance whereby self-reflection leads to creativity, or even a more serious consequence, depression?
Research has shown that writers and artists are more commonly found to have depressive symptoms and disorders, as compared to the general population. Writers and artists need to think before they pen down their stories and paint their artwork respectively. Writers who have a flair for writing are able to capture the readers' minds and to evoke emotions in the readers' hearts. On the other hand, artists have the ability to convey meanings through the portrayal of their beautiful paintings. Simple as it may sound, but to be able to succeed in their goals is another issue. As a result, writers and artists are required to think before they commence on their work. Thinking can be a long and tedious process. Besides, each person also hopes to stand out among a crowd of other 'colleagues'.
Writers and artists try to be creative in every possible way. When they run out of brilliant ideas to carry on their work, this may cause them to suffer from depression. They have the ideas, but are they confident that their ideas will work out? Will their works be big hits?
Of course, it is unfair to discriminate writers and artists to be the ones who may suffer from depression as a result of always having to self-reflect, but to conceal their thoughts at the same time before revealing them to the readers or admirers of paintings . Ordinary workers or even students may also suffer from depression. Depression symptoms comprises of severe mood swings, loss of interest in activities, feelings of helplessness, self-loathing, appetite and sleep changes and attempts of suicide. It is unpredictable in terms of who may suffer from depression. However, symptoms persist for long periods before leading to the end result- depression. A positive reminder- one can walk out from depression, an essential factor is to have determination to emerge from the depression pit.
When one self-reflects after saying something or carrying out an action, it may be considered as an advantage to a certain extent. This helps to
improve the behaviour for the better or
to correct the action. To consistently reflect upon normal issues is fine. However, to dwell upon unhappy incidents all the time, especially for prolonged periods then becomes a problem. This builds up anger, frustration, anxiety and unhappiness emotions within the person. In time to come, the person will suffer from an inferiority complex and lose confidence in himself/herself. Those who self-reflect should
reflect about an issue and get over with it. Through this, they can learn and be aware of their words said or action committed, instead of being depressed regardless of whether it is a minor or major issue. They should
learn to let go and continue to lead a normal everyday life.
Creative ideas can be established within the process of self-reflection. When our minds start to reflect on an issue, this branches out to other similar issues that occurred bofore and this brings back past memories. Human brains are able to recall incidents etched in our minds. Through reflection, we can let our
thoughts run free and wild and be creative, to come up with unique topics or subjects that are out of the box.
Regardless of whether self-reflection leads to creativity or depression, we should be concerned about the effects of the long route of self-reflection in the incorrect way.
To self-reflect benefits the soul. As human beings with feelings, we should try to
let go of past matters and look forward to future events. Most importantly, we should always
maintain an optimistic mindset and regard self-reflection as a helpful way of thinking.
-Pearlyn :D-
Labels: Self-reflection leads to Creativity or Depression?
