Raul Cuero and Creativity

Raul Cuero's interview on creativity was not just engaging, but it rung with many irrefutable truths. He encouraged people to put down their phones, turn off their televisions, and simply talk to one another. Cuero commented on the increasingly anti-social, conversationally challenged society we live in today, noting that the main contributor to this was in fact the advent of technology. Before technology, creativity was everywhere. People found ways to occupy their time in more reflective, constructive ways. Furthermore, he encouraged individuals to enjoy life for what it is, a series of conflict, a multi-step process. In accepting that good things do in fact take time, our satisfaction with our lives is sure to increase as will our tolerance of others. Lastly, he advised people that when faced with the prejudice views of others, the best thing to do is ignore their criticisms and attacks, but rather to take it on the chin with maturity and optimism. This interview was especially relevant because Cuero not only reflected on the affects of technology on society, but he also compared the world of today with his own growing up in Columbia. 

Prejudice, preconceived notions that are acquired without any factual evidence or basis. Cuero shared his personal experiences with prejudice as a young man. As a child he was surrounded by people of the same background and culture, but when he moved on in his studies, he encountered something he never had before, racial prejudice. Cuero described in his interview how ostracized he felt by his peers. He strived to prove his intellectual capabilities, but people still judged him solely by his background, instead of by his character. Outside the basketball court Cuero felt cast aside in relation to the other students at his university, as if he as a person, held no value.

This interview was intriguing, inspiring, and heartfelt. I feel like many people not only relate to some of the feelings Cuero describes, but that there is value in the lessons he chose to impart. In his interview, Cuero told viewers to develop a "universal mindset," when confronted with challenges. My understanding of the universal mindset is that whenever I am faced with uncertainty, I must look at the situation outside myself for perspective. In doing so, I realize that problems are everywhere. There is a global community of people experiencing the same hardships and emotions I am. Although I cannot see them, they are all there with me navigating these issues. Secondly, Cuero advised that whenever we feel ostracized, or whenever we come across prejudice in our lives, we should not focus on this negativity, rather we should choose pacifism and turn the other cheek. I can apply this in my life by choosing to ignore the harsh criticisms of others, and by continuing to improve myself for my personal growth. 

Lastly, I can apply the words Cuero shared in his interview by choosing to be more engaged with my surroundings and my family. Today is a world of distractions, whether it is the latest film to come out, the spiciest piece of gossip circulating the tabloids, a deadline we must meet, a meeting to attend, or a bill to pay, there are a plethora of things to take our attention; however, we do not realize how distractions can negatively impact our creativity. There is a solution to this problem. By choosing to cast aside the allure of my cell phone and instead spending time with family and engaging in meaningful conversation, or by simply meditating outside on my own without external interference, I can tap into the inner creative spirit that resides in all human beings. Small changes like these can make a world of a difference as we learn to quiet our minds and take better care of our bodies and minds, while simultaneously setting the stage for artistic and creative thinking.