Why creativity and life thrive in being ‘too much’
One of my favorite art quotes is from Pauline Kael, the American film critic known for her witty and insightful movie reviews:
“Art doesn’t come in measured quantities: it’s got to be too much or it’s not enough.”
I always think of this quote when I see flowers blooming in the spring. Nature doesn’t hold back—it’s all about extravagance. My roses, for example, have been absolutely over-the-top lately—bursting with vibrant colors and unapologetically abundant blooms.
This kind of unrestrained beauty reminds me of the creative process. True creativity isn’t neat, tidy, or restrained—it’s wild, alive, and messy. As I often share in my workshops, creativity comes from the heart, not the head, and the heart doesn’t deal in half-measures. The most authentic art and self-expression happen when we stop holding back and allow our inner brilliance to flow freely.
Just like the roses don’t apologize for blooming, neither should we. So, may we all remember to be too much today—in our creativity, our joy, and the way we show up in the world. After all, the world could use more extravagance, more boldness, and more beauty.
