Meaning:
This quote by Garson Kanin, a renowned playwright and director, encapsulates the essence of finding fulfillment in the process of creation and work rather than solely in the end result or success. Kanin's words convey a deep appreciation for the journey of crafting and building, emphasizing the intrinsic value of the creative process over the external validation of achievement.
In the first part of the quote, Kanin highlights the significance of the "working part" and the "creative part" as the most enriching aspects of one's life. This assertion underscores the idea that the act of engaging in meaningful work and tapping into one's creativity is where true satisfaction and fulfillment are derived. Kanin's emphasis on the "creative part" suggests that the process of generating, conceptualizing, and bringing ideas to life is inherently rewarding and nourishing for the spirit.
Kanin's assertion that he loves to succeed acknowledges the importance of achieving goals and reaping the rewards of one's efforts. However, he distinguishes this from the "real spiritual and emotional excitement" found in the process of doing—implying that the joy and fulfillment derived from the act of creation surpass the transient elation of success. This perspective challenges the prevailing notion that fulfillment is exclusively tied to external markers of achievement and instead advocates for finding genuine joy in the act of creating and working towards one's goals.
The quote also suggests that the process of creative labor is inherently spiritual and emotionally stirring. By characterizing the act of doing as the source of "real spiritual and emotional excitement," Kanin underscores the profound and profound impact of engaging in meaningful work and creative endeavors. This sentiment resonates with the idea that the act of creation can be a deeply transformative and cathartic experience, allowing individuals to connect with their innermost selves and experience a sense of purpose and fulfillment that transcends mere material success.
Kanin's perspective on the intrinsic value of the creative process aligns with the concept of "flow," as described by psychologist Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi. Flow refers to the state of deep absorption and enjoyment experienced when fully immersed in an activity, often characterized by a sense of timelessness and effortless focus. Kanin's emphasis on the joy found in the "doing" echoes the idea of finding flow in the process of creative work, where the act of creation becomes its own reward and source of profound satisfaction.
In conclusion, Garson Kanin's quote encapsulates a profound appreciation for the intrinsic value of the creative process and the spiritual and emotional fulfillment derived from engaging in meaningful work. By emphasizing the joy found in the act of doing and creating, Kanin challenges the notion that success and external validation are the primary sources of fulfillment. Instead, he invites individuals to embrace the journey of creativity and labor as a source of profound satisfaction and emotional excitement. Kanin's words serve as a poignant reminder of the transformative power of engaging in meaningful work and the intrinsic rewards found in the process of creation.