Do you think it's okay to only consume, and not create?

[PigsawJuzzle]

I consume constantly: books, podcasts, TV shows, crossword puzzles, articles, reels, social media posts. I go to art galleries and recitals and plays and gigs.

It has occurred to me that I don't create anything. I don't write or draw or paint or craft or make videos to post on social media. I don't decorate cakes, or pottery vases, or knit jumpers or act or play the harpsichord.

As a marvellously average person, I don't think the world especially needs me to create anything. Nobody is missing out!! But from the perspective of living a balanced life, do you think it's a good thing to create as well as consume?

Do you create or consume? Do you think we ought to do both?

What I'm really asking is, should I take up glass blowing?

You should definitely take up glass blowing, even if it's only for the experience!

It's fine to only consume, as a lot of people do. It's also good to create things if you enjoy it and if it helps you to relax. I like reading and writing, knitting, sewing and attempting to play various musical instruments.

I don't create either OP. I'm just not a creative person. I like reading and running. I think that's fine.

Really interesting question. I am the same, a big consumer and not creative. However, I think it's rare that someone is purely a parasite and creates nothing at all. I imagine that if you work, there may be some creative element to your work. There is a creative element to mine even though it's a boring professional job. Perhaps you cook meals for other people or make an effort to decorate your house nicely. There are ways to be creative even if you don't have a specific skill (like glassblowing).

You owe it to yourself to create if you feel you can do it, you only live once.

I do cook well. I can create lovely meals. I used to bake, and decorate birthday cakes when the children were little.

And you're right about being creative at work. I'm a teacher so I suppose I create lessons and experiences and resources every day.

I have remembered something I do create. I make all my kids' birthday cards. Always have.

I think I'll try glass blowing.

I think there are other ways to contribute to society that aren't creating. You're involved in raising the next generation through your job which is a huge contribution, as well as raising your own family.

My DB did glass blowing. Made some amazing things. Very hit and dangerous.

I sing and play music regularly so I guess that’s creating!? But there is such a wonderful enjoyment in performing a concert which goes really well and the audience love and are really engaged in.

While it is great making music for its own sake, it is a totally different and really rewarding experience creating that music for someone else to consume, and we both gain (hopefully the audience do anyway!) from the performance.

I worry about this too, I don't contribute anything meaningful to society.

I'm a good friend and I get a lot of satisfaction from my job helping people professionally but that's it really 🙃

When you consume other people's performances (music, dance) or output (art) , you are supporting their creativity.
See @Dokushozanmai ' s post above.