We all suffer to some degree from chronic discontent. As a result, we seek out the next goal to achieve, a new relationship, a new job, or “something else” that will rid us of this unceasing desire for the next thing. We even silently chant to ourselves a mantra, “When I get there, I will feel fulfilled and then I will be happy.” Yet when we obtain the object of our desire it only temporarily quiets the hungry voice and before we know it, the yearning starts all over again.

Religions and philosophies have often referred to this as “A Divine Discontent.” They recognize its gift as a fountain of energy, which prompts us to grow and strive toward our full potential.

In his book, The Path of Least Resistance, Robert Fritz, compares discontent to a rubber band that is stretched to a point of tension and with a natural tendency to return to its previous form. If our current reality does not match up to where we desire to be, a strong urge to resolve it arises. Fritz believed within this tension lies a creative energy that commonly precedes a major breakthrough or epiphany, on the way to something greater.

How does divine discontent play out in the creative process? It rears its face in the initial stages of an idea then becoming a drive to bring the vision into fruition. It motivates the artist to return again and again to the sculpture, painting or novel until completion. Only to leave him or her once again unfulfilled and driven to birth another idea.

In Mark Epstein’s book, Open to Desire he further explains this restlessness. He writes, “But allowing oneself to fall into the space that desire cannot span makes the experience complete. The little bit of lack that remains, after even the most satisfying resolution of desire, is a window into something important, something true.”

Divine Discontent is part of being human and especially being an artist. It navigates us through moments of creative block and compels us to seek out innovative ideas. If we welcome the presence of Divine Discontent we allow it to be the incentive that drives us towards our creative potential.