"Creativity is not a gift from the gods...but is the product of preparation and effort," says Twila Tharp, the great American choreographer, in her book, The Creative Habit.  Though all of us are born with certain gifts and talents, it is in the development of these gifts that we bring them into their fullest potential.  This year, I've seen evidence of this on the reality show, American Idol.

Now, the artists among us will look with skepticism on American Idol as a resource of creativity.  What I have witness, however, amidst the programming and popularity contest, are moments that illustrate Ms. Tharp's assertion.

This week, we're down to the final 7 in the competition, but earlier this year hundreds of contestants vied for these spots.  One, Tatiana Del Toro, embodied the "I'm the center of the universe" drama-queen-diva, using her powerful personality and above-average pipes to bulldoze her way to the top 36.  She had three key opportunities to sing for the judges, and each time, she sang the same song, "Saving all My Love for You," originally performed by Whitney Houston.  Her third performance was in the "wild card" slot, a total gift from the judges.  Following her performance, Simon asked her some critical questions.  View her performance and most of the judges' comments; Simon's scrutiny begins around 3:20.

Simply put, Tatiana performed the same song three times because she didn't have another song ready. Simon called this lack of preparation "rubbish."  As I often do, I agreed with Simon this time.  Here she stood, on a national stage, with an opportunity that thousands of people longed to have, and she was unprepared.  Only one song in her repertoire; performed reasonably well, but not the show-stopper she needed to advance in the competition.  Opportunity dashed.

Those who aspire to the creative life should take a lesson from Tatiana: Get ready.  Or as our Boy Scouts might say, "Be Prepared." 

Another contestant embodies the results of time invested in preparation and effort: Adam Lambert.  The 26-year-old contestant admits that from an early age, he knew he wanted to be a performer, and has pursued that goal through musical theater, live musical reviews, talent shows, etc.  This experience has garnered him tremendous stage presence, confidence in his abilities, a wide repertoire of songs and styles to perform.  Certainly, he has been gifted with an extraordinary voice and handsome presence, but it is his investment in his craft that has brought him to this moment.  Each week, he brings a fresh take to the song he performs.  Here's just one example of his work.  Watch through to the end to see Simon's reaction.  Browse his other performances and one thing is clear: Adam is ready.

Creatives, take note!  Opportunities will come our way--are we ready to rise to the occasion?

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Author's note:  I've been away from Time2Muse for a while as I launched two more blogs and books!  Please visit the Prepare Your Heart Series sites:

Prepare Your Heart and Be a Great Mom
Prepare Your Heart for a Great Christmas