Creativity is often seen as a pursuit of expression, innovation, and meaning. But what if it was also a direct route to happiness? Mo Gawdat, the former Chief Business Officer at Google X and author of Solve for Happy, presents a powerful framework for understanding happiness - not as something to be pursued, but as a state that arises when our expectations align with reality. If we bring this perspective into the creative process, we unlock not only artistic fulfilment but also deep, lasting joy.
The Happiness Equation
Gawdat's core idea is that happiness follows a simple equation:
Happiness ≥ Reality – Expectations
In other words, we are happy when our perception of reality meets or exceeds our expectations. Creativity, then, can be a powerful tool for shaping both our reality and our expectations in a way that fosters contentment.
As Gawdat says:
“Happiness is not about what the world gives you - happiness is about what you think about what the world gives you.”
When we create, we step into the unknown. We take an idea, an impulse, or an inspiration and shape it into something new. But often, our expectations—perfectionism, fear of judgment, or self-doubt—create a gap between what we envision and what we produce. If we can embrace creativity as a process rather than a result, we begin to align our expectations with reality, making space for happiness.
The Creative Mindset: Presence Over Perfection
One of the biggest challenges in creative work is dealing with self-criticism. We often judge our work harshly, expecting it to be flawless from the start.
But Gawdat reminds us:
“We suffer when we resist what is”
Creativity flourishes when we let go of resistance and embrace presence. Instead of obsessing over an imagined perfect outcome, we can shift our focus to the act of creating itself. This shift moves us from expectation to experience, which is where true happiness is found.
Artists, musicians, writers, and innovators often describe a “flow state" - a mental state of being fully immersed in an activity. This state occurs when we lose ourselves in the creative process, free from expectation. It’s in these moments that we find joy, because we are simply being, rather than striving.
Creativity as a Practice of Gratitude
Another key insight from Gawdat is that gratitude is a cornerstone of happiness:
“If you calibrate your brain to look for what’s good, you will find more of it.”
Creativity is an act of seeing. Whether we are painting, writing, composing, or designing, we are paying attention to the world in a different way. We notice details, patterns, emotions and possibilities that others might overlook. This heightened awareness naturally leads to gratitude, as we become more attuned to beauty, connection, and meaning.
By engaging in creative practices—whether through art, music, writing, or even problem-solving—we cultivate a mindset of abundance rather than scarcity. We shift our focus from what is missing to what is possible, reinforcing the happiness equation in our lives.
The Takeaway: Creativity as a Path to Happiness
Happiness and creativity are deeply intertwined. When we create with openness and presence, we align our reality with our expectations, reducing the gap that leads to unhappiness. By embracing imperfection, practicing gratitude, and allowing ourselves to be fully immersed in the moment, we cultivate both artistic expression and inner joy.
“Happiness is your default state. It’s what remains when you remove the sense that something is missing.”
Perhaps, then, the act of creating isn’t just about making something new—it’s about returning to our true nature, where joy is already waiting.
Join us this summer at the Green Door Centre, Bosham, West Sussex, UK
Shakti Sangha is not a typical art workshop. It’s a space where you’re invited to simply show up as you are — no experience required, no expectations, no pressure.
You’ll be surrounded by kindred spirits — each person following their own creative thread — held in a space of quiet encouragement and shared presence. Whether you create in solitude or share your work with others, you’ll feel the quiet strength of the collective holding you.
✔️ No experience needed — just an open heart.
✔️ A rare chance to slow down and listen inwardly.
✔️ A heart-centred space to create and connect.
✔️ Gentle prompts to guide you — but no pressure to create.
✔️ Come as you are. Leave feeling restored.
This is your permission slip to create without expectation — to soften into the present moment and allow creative flow to emerge naturally.
Spaces are limited to keep the experience intimate. If you feel the pull, trust it — your creative spirit is already waiting.
👉 Reserve Your Spot — the moment you say yes, the shift begins.
With warmth and gratitude,
Jo & Tina
Step into the circle. Come home to your creative self.
Curious to Learn More?
Your creativity deserves time, space, and care to flourish.
Discover how we can work together to support your artistic journey, inspire connection, and bring more meaning to your creative life.
Get in contact TODAY on; 07543660185 or use the contact page to send a message.
Until next time, let your creativity bloom in unexpected ways.
