There's a few things I'm itching to talk about.

REAL MAGIC
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…And now, for my next trick, I need an unsuspecting reader.

Ahh, you! Yes, you…

Hold your hand out, palm up, as if you’re preparing to catch a falling leaf. Visualize in your mind an object, say a book, that doesn’t exist, never before seen. Think of an idea for its title, the design of its cover, its genre, its theme, and even its thickness. Feel its weight in the palm of your hand. Now, with a deep breath, close your eyes and imagine that book materializing, then on the count of three, open your eyes slowly.

One…two…three—Imagine how magical it would’ve felt if when you opened your eyes the book you visualized was resting in your hand.

Well, my friend, that’s exactly how I created this book.

A few years ago, I was struck by an idea for a book that would unveil the extraordinary power of creativity. Like a deep breath, I inhaled countless research studies, biographies, and interviews, absorbing each as a source of inspiration. Then, I exhaled my own findings, perspectives, and insights, condensing them into these pages. That’s how this book, once a mere figment of imagination, came to life. Like magic, I created something out of nothing, bridging the gap between ideas and reality. In alternative cases, this magic happens instantaneously, like during the spontaneous composition of jazz music or improv poetry. Other times, it can take years to materialize, like fulfilling the vision of a classic film or technological innovation.

Regardless of the complexities of an idea, there’s a special key required to unlock the power to bring it to life.

The key is called creativity.

You see, creativity unlocks many magical doors.
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Creativity unlocks the way you think. Your mind opens up to differing viewpoints. You approach challenges with ease, becoming bolder as you embrace failure. You observe the world like a baby with curious eyes, finding joy and beauty in the little things. This leads to a more intentional engagement with the world, enriching your life in the process.

Most importantly, creativity unlocks the pursuit of a deeper understanding of oneself. The act of being creative is a mindful act that can improve your mental health, reduce stress, and boost your mood. You may find that you are more vulnerable with yourself. Creativity is an instinctual natural therapy that will help you process and cope with the roller coaster of life.

Like the trick I performed at the beginning of this chapter, creativity unlocks your potential to transform your ideas into tangible realities. As mystical as that sounds, the real magic happens when you share your creations with the world. Through creative works like literature, film, music, food, business, dance, and art, everyone can share their narrative, fostering global empathy. What starts as an expression of individuality can often make a social impact, influencing pop culture, trends, and societal norms. This key harnesses the potential to change the world for generations to come.
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THE CATALYST
We tend to idolize a very particular type of human. We fill stadiums to sing their songs in unison. We wear their clothes to gain confidence. We fly across the world to gather in a quiet room around a blank wall to stare attentively at their brush strokes. We host worldwide competitions to witness them break records. We build habits around their technology because it makes our daily lives easier.

We admire them so much that we call them legends as if they’re Greek gods. They seem like heroes who possess superhuman abilities. And it’s true. They are superhuman, but they’re not beyond human. Instead, they all have one thing in common. They all hold the key. They use it to unlock a source deep within their humanity and use it to influence the world.

This source possesses great power, yet it doesn’t limit itself to only a small, particular group of people. It’s the most abundant natural resource available to humanity. It’s everywhere, freely flowing through everyone, yearning for people to tap into it. The world is filled with superhumans who are unaware of their superpowers. Chances are, you’re one of them.

But don’t worry. This moment is a crucial part of your heroic journey. This book you’re reading is the catalyst to unlocking your powers.

It’s going to show you that creativity is not what you think. It’s more. It’s transformative, it’s empowering, and it’s one of the most valuable gifts you will ever give yourself.

NOTES ON CREATIVITY
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I structured this book similar to how most creators think, thoughts seemingly scattered and random, but all connecting. It is not written like a long, drawn-out lecture. Instead, each key is packed with short bursts of interesting, interconnected information, studies, and commentary that converge into profound insights.

Over the last few years I’ve dissected the lives of history’s most creative geniuses, read countless research studies on creativity’s effect on humans, and practiced the things I’ve learned in my everyday life. The pages in this book are all of my private notes on creativity packaged into a collection of 48 keys. They’re filled with facts and historical accounts, but I also share my opinions, ideas, and theories. It’s a blend of fact and fiction, reality and imagination, science and art. My journey of researching creativity revealed unexpected truths. If you keep an open mind, my only goal is to teach you the lessons I learned from years of researching creativity.

With each key, you’ll learn about a creative genius, gain a new perspective, a fresh insight, and a powerful tool that empowers you to innovate, inspire, and leave a mark on this world. Use these keys to become a more impactful creator while embarking on a profound voyage of self-discovery, elevating your artistry, your ventures, and your life.

These pages hold the answers to unlocking your creative potential. It’s the elixir of life for your creative soul. Brace yourself for a journey that will change how you perceive yourself, the world, and the boundless realm of creativity. By the end of this book, you will be more able to tap into the endless flow of inspiration at will, think of innovative ideas, develop strategies to execute your ideas, and, in doing so, live a more fulfilling life while inspiring others. I wrote Create or Die: 48 Keys of Creativity for people like me, creative thinkers who have a dying urge to create something great in this world. Maybe you have ideas for hit songs, art shows, movie scripts, YouTube channels, clothing lines, performances, books, apps, or businesses. If you have a dying urge to create something impactful like history’s greatest creative minds, you’re in the right place. Even if only a tiny part of you identifies as an artist, performer, videographer, writer, musician, chef, athlete, influencer, developer, builder, entrepreneur, or any other type of creator, take this key. Read this book. Embrace your catalyst. Unlock your creative potential. It will change your life and, if you wish, it will give you the power to change the world.