Oscar Wilde once described the life of an artist as “one long, lovely suicide,” suggesting that authentic creative lives often involve self-inflicted suffering. Many artists still follow this belief today, sacrificing themselves for their craft. However, there’s an alternative way to fuel your creative spirit without causing distress. Instead of being a martyr, why not become a trickster? Unlike martyrs who rigidly adhere to principles regardless of the cost, tricksters take things lightly, adapting to challenges.

Imagine the trickster as Bugs Bunny, a cartoon rabbit always cool and ready with a joke. Bugs Bunny doesn’t believe he can escape Elmer Fudd’s bullet, but he’s confident the bullet will miss. In a creative process full of challenges, tricksters thrive because of their adaptability. Brené Brown, a friend of the author, learned the value of the trickster’s ways by incorporating trust into her writing process.

Brown, who found producing a novel exhausting and painful, decided to give the trickster a shot. She told stories to her colleagues, who took notes, freeing her from the temptation to agonize over a perfect plotline. Trusting her colleagues allowed Brown to write faster, experience fewer blocks, and enjoy the process more.

Maintaining a day job also provides the safety to be creative. Art success is uncertain, so why pressure your art for money or fame? High expectations can take the fun out of creativity. To create freely without fear, give yourself the security to do so with backup options.