Two keys to doing original creative work:

1. A philosophy of life, or a unique perspective, typically developed through broad experience, deep reflection, and, according to Jack London, study across many subjects of inquiry. This philosophy serves as a unique filter through which you interpret the world, ideas, and events. It’s discernible in your work. It’s the stamp that distinguishes your collection of ideas, paintings, or stories from other bodies of work.

2. The confidence to be oneself. Creative Writing teacher Brenda Ueland writes, “Everybody is original, if he tells the truth, if he speaks from himself.” The problem is most people do not tell the truth, because they are afraid to show and be their true selves. They’d rather come off as someone else, often someone more sophisticated or politically correct.

Get those two down and you’ll be miles ahead of the average creative in terms of orignality.