Why Nothing Is Truly Original and What That Means for Your Creativity

In episode 9, we’re diving into a concept that might just set your creativity free: the myth of originality.

Inspired by Austin Kleon’s Steal Like an Artist, we’re unpacking what it really means to create in a world where ‘there is nothing new under the sun’ — and how remixing, reimagining, and repurposing can be one of the most powerful creative moves you make.

“Nothing is completely original. Every new idea is just a mashup or remix of one or more previous ideas.” – Austin Kleon

So if you’ve ever felt stuck, frozen by the pressure to be original, or worried your ideas aren’t new enough — this episode is for you.

In This Episode, You’ll Learn:

• Why only chasing originality can block your creativity
• How to remix with integrity and intention
• How to trust your creative perspective
• Why your influences make your work stronger

5 Ways to Practice the Remix Mindset

1. Collect What Resonates
   Start a creative swipe file or digital notebook. Write down one image, quote, or moment a day that inspires you.
2. Study What You Love
   Reverse-engineer your favorite films, scripts, or stories. Ask: Why does this work? What’s the structure underneath?
3. Transform, Don’t Copy
   Think of creativity like a recipe passed down over time — tweak it, remix it, and add your unique flavor.
4. Credit Generously
   Giving credit to your sources isn’t weakness — it’s connection. Be open about your creative lineage.
5. Trust Your Voice
   Two people can use the same ingredients and still create wildly different dishes. Your life experiences are the differentiator.

Listen Now

Episode 9: Why Nothing Is Truly Original and What That Means for Your Creativity
📱 Available on: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen!

👉 Listen on Spotify
👉 Listen on Apple Podcasts

Book Mentioned

• Book: Steal Like an Artist: 10 Things Nobody Told You about Being Creative by Austin Kleon

This Week’s Creative Challenge

🎵 Tune in to find out what this week’s creative challenge is! It’s a fun one!

What I’m Learning This Week

This week, I’m leaning into bold moves.
Taking more risks creatively, trusting my instincts, and remembering that if I want people to see my work — I have to share it.
I’m letting go of the need to get it perfect, I’m being bold, and I’m giving it my all!

If You Loved This Episode…

✅ Share it with a friend or fellow creative
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Visit our podcast page: thehappykind.com/podcast

Upcoming episode: Build Creative Habits That Stick

💌 Bonus: Want a Daily Creativity Boost?

Take the quick, FREE Creative Growth Style Quiz below, to get your shortcut to aligned action, and grab our free Creative Kickstart Kit at the end! Two powerful tools to jumpstart your creative flow in just 10 minutes a day!