Creativity

"Brittany, you are too creative to be a scientist." This statement was uttered by a friend of mine months and months ago. He said it to me a few times while we were hanging out during his visit. At first, I laughed it off. People tend to think I am an artist rather than a scientist. I can see how people may get that impression from my fluid lifestyle and colorful articles of clothing. I can understand how people have this impression since I do not fit the stereotypical science mold.

However, after hearing this statement repeated to me it began to resonate in my head. I began questioning this statement. Why are scientists seen as drones? Robots who are incapable of feelings, interacting with humans, smiling, doing anything but locking themselves in a windowless room solving the mysteries of the universe. Obviously, with the robot's high intellect they are essentially devoid of any creative fiber. Where did this picture come from and why is it proliferated?

I have to say that is the absolute furthest thing from the truth. Scientists are amongst the most creative creatures on earth. Scientists and artists follow a very similar lifestyle. They dedicate their lives to learning technical skills to create their picture. This effort is done to communicate the abstraction in their mind to the rest of the world. Scientists and artist can find themselves completely enthralled in their craft. They share similarities when they become so absorbed in a particular idea that they may forget to eat or sleep. That is just part of the creative process.

Contrary to scientist lore - we are incredibly social. The whole system of science caters to both the social and anti-social aspects of each human. Scientists have to work on articulating their ideas so people can understand them. They most do this in the form of spoken and written word by writing papers, giving presentations, and engaging others in informal discussions. An important aspect of the scientific balancing act is working alone to make sure you understand your work. However, that's not the only thing scientists do.

Scientists are creative. 

Scientists are social.

Scientists are fun.

image credit : sungazing.com + addicted2success.com