You’re absolutely right—creativity often comes when you run out of other options. For most of my life, I tried to find a job, even positions below my qualifications. Every door seemed closed: job applications, studying abroad, or any other attempt. But when I ran out of options, I learned to be creative and launch online businesses. That’s why I’m here on substack writing today, and creating content on LinkedIn.
Honestly, the Cheesecake Factory part made me laugh, and have to agree on the same time because you’re right, most people try to build a Michelin kitchen with food-truck resources and then wonder why it collapses.
I even believe the moment you stop relying on unlimited resources and start solving problems with whatever you already have, your brain becomes sharper than any AI model.
Thanks for the piece. I’m largely aligned, though I’d frame it a bit differently.
If we define creativity as forming new connections from existing knowledge, then it doesn’t matter whether that knowledge comes from a human mind or an LLM. The source is secondary. What counts is whether those connections are fresh instead of default.
Most people default to the first answer that comes to mind. Models do the same when you don’t push them. But once you stress them with divergent prompts, perspective shifts, and conflicting angles, they start producing the kind of variety solopreneurs rarely get on their own. It’s a practical way to escape personal bias and see options that time and budget normally block.
So for me, the question isn’t human beats AI. It’s human AND AI to get really funky.
This post is a masterclass in why human creativity outpaces AI. Constraints, failure, and unique perspectives force leaders to innovate in ways algorithms can’t predict.
Great point! Creativity is an ambiguous term in itself but it does encompass those terms you mentioned. I just don’t see it as ai bad and creativity good, though, but rather creativity is the launching point that can be aided and often executed on with the help of ai.
I see your point clearly, thanks for reading and for bringing it up!
This was so fun to write, thanks Joel!
Love reading it myself :)
Love the cheesecake factory reference. It's like reading a book everytime you go... talk about decision fatigue.
hahaha yes!! So stressful
I’ve learned that creativity shows up strongest when structure exists.
Systems don’t kill creativity, they give it somewhere to land. That’s how I stay consistent without burning out... with "My Accountability Partner"
How do you keep creativity alive when things get chaotic?
Designing a new business is the ultimate creative challenge
It rlly is!
You’re absolutely right—creativity often comes when you run out of other options. For most of my life, I tried to find a job, even positions below my qualifications. Every door seemed closed: job applications, studying abroad, or any other attempt. But when I ran out of options, I learned to be creative and launch online businesses. That’s why I’m here on substack writing today, and creating content on LinkedIn.
Maryam, thank you for sharing! Let's connect on LinkedIn, I'd be glad to support however I am able
Thank you for the kind offer, Joel Jan. I’d be glad to stay connected and learn from your experience in leadership. I appreciate your support.
agree!
Yes, Destiny!
Creativity can't ever be replaced.
James, I love to see your comment here, you are one of the top proponents of creativity paired with AI here on substack
Thank you for saying that! It’s a bit part of my mission :D
And that’s clear!!
Honestly, the Cheesecake Factory part made me laugh, and have to agree on the same time because you’re right, most people try to build a Michelin kitchen with food-truck resources and then wonder why it collapses.
I even believe the moment you stop relying on unlimited resources and start solving problems with whatever you already have, your brain becomes sharper than any AI model.
Michelin kitchen with food truck resources is such a clear analogy!
Thanks for the piece. I’m largely aligned, though I’d frame it a bit differently.
If we define creativity as forming new connections from existing knowledge, then it doesn’t matter whether that knowledge comes from a human mind or an LLM. The source is secondary. What counts is whether those connections are fresh instead of default.
Most people default to the first answer that comes to mind. Models do the same when you don’t push them. But once you stress them with divergent prompts, perspective shifts, and conflicting angles, they start producing the kind of variety solopreneurs rarely get on their own. It’s a practical way to escape personal bias and see options that time and budget normally block.
So for me, the question isn’t human beats AI. It’s human AND AI to get really funky.
I really like how you framed that, Yetvart! I especially like the last line, that needs to be printed and put on a T-shirt!
This post is a masterclass in why human creativity outpaces AI. Constraints, failure, and unique perspectives force leaders to innovate in ways algorithms can’t predict.
I think so too! @Anjeanette Carter s work is amazing
Creativity 🧡 thanks for sharing this brilliant piece
A lot of it reminded me of pieces of wisdom You shared in or interview
I’ve learned that creativity shows up strongest when structure exists.
Systems don’t kill creativity, they give it somewhere to land. That’s how I stay consistent without burning out... with "My Accountability Partner"
How do you keep creativity alive when things get chaotic?
Systems give creativity somewhere to land, I love that!!
Thanks Joel
Great point! Creativity is an ambiguous term in itself but it does encompass those terms you mentioned. I just don’t see it as ai bad and creativity good, though, but rather creativity is the launching point that can be aided and often executed on with the help of ai.
I see your point clearly, thanks for reading and for bringing it up!