Over the last several years, I’ve been reflecting on what defines human nature. Initially, my thoughts were rooted in the idea that humans are fundamentally driven by two basic needs: the drive to eat and the drive to reproduce. These instincts, ingrained deeply within our biology, are essential for survival and the continuation of our species. I believed that any flaw or disruption in either of these drives could lead to significant adverse outcomes in a person’s well-being.

While I still hold that these two drives are foundational, my perspective has evolved. Through years of observation, reflection, and study, I’ve come to realize that survival and reproduction alone are not enough to fully capture the essence of what it means to be human. There’s more to our existence than simply sustaining life and passing on our genes. Humanity’s essence lies in something deeper—something that transcends survival.

This realization has led me to identify two additional elements that I believe are fundamental to human nature. Together, I call them the Creativity Principle.

The Creativity Principle: A Basic Human Need

At its core, the Creativity Principle states that all people have a basic need to create. However, creativity, in this sense, isn’t limited to artistic pursuits like painting, music, or writing. Creativity is much broader—it’s a fundamental expression of identity. It’s how we shape the world around us, how we leave our mark, and how we connect with others through the unique contributions we make. Whether it’s solving problems, building relationships, or designing a better future, creativity is inherent in our humanity.

But as simple as this idea may seem, it’s often misunderstood or undervalued. And worse, it is frequently stifled by an insidious internal force: self-judgment.

Self-Judgment: The Enemy of Creativity

Self-judgment is, in my view, the single most toxic enemy of creativity. It’s the silent voice inside us that questions our worth, our talents, and our contributions. It’s the force that whispers, “You’re not good enough,” “You’ll never succeed,” or “Why even bother trying?”

This internal critic doesn’t just dampen our willingness to create—it creates fear. Fear of failure. Fear of rejection. Fear of being vulnerable. And when these fears take root, they often lead to a troubling cycle: the belief that we’re inadequate. Over time, this belief can fester into self-hate and an unwillingness to express ourselves at all.

When creativity is suppressed by self-judgment, it doesn’t just stifle individual potential—it can lead to emotional and psychological consequences. A person’s inability to create and express themselves freely can result in feelings of frustration, emptiness, and even despair. Just as disruptions in the drives to eat or reproduce can harm a person’s physical well-being, disruptions in the drive to create can harm their emotional and mental health.

Why Self-Judgment Is the Most Basic Limiting Factor

Over the years, countless scholars and thinkers have observed that humans are their own worst enemies. I’ve often wondered why this is such a universal truth. What lies at the root of this internal conflict?

I believe self-judgment is the core reason people struggle against themselves. When we constantly critique, doubt, and diminish our own efforts, we create barriers to growth, joy, and fulfillment. This doesn’t just limit individual lives; it limits humanity’s potential as a whole. If each person has the capacity to create—to add something meaningful to the world—then self-judgment is a force that holds us back from achieving the best version of ourselves and our collective future.

Embracing Creativity Without Fear

We must learn to silence our inner critics. We must replace self-judgment with self-compassion, curiosity, and courage. This isn’t an easy task, especially in a world that often values perfection over authenticity. But it’s a necessary one.

When we create, we’re not just making something external—we’re also shaping ourselves. Creativity helps us understand who we are, what we value, and how we see the world. It’s an act of connection—to ourselves and to others.

By nurturing creativity and challenging self-judgment, we open doors to new possibilities. We allow ourselves to be vulnerable, to take risks, and to grow. And in doing so, we honor a fundamental part of our humanity.

A Call to Action

As I continue to explore the idea of human nature, I see the Creativity Principle as a lens through which we can better understand ourselves. If you’ve ever felt the weight of self-judgment or doubted your ability to create, know this: your creativity matters. It doesn’t have to be perfect, and it doesn’t have to conform to anyone else’s standards. It just has to be yours.

So, the next time you hear that critical inner voice, pause and remind yourself: You are enough. Your creativity is a gift, not just to yourself but to the world. Embrace it, and see where it takes you.