Skip to content

Cease Quote by Margaret J. Wheatley

“When error holds so much power, play disappears. Creativity ceases.” quote by Margaret J. Wheatley
Download Open image
“When error holds so much power, play disappears. Creativity ceases.”

Margaret J. Wheatley

About This Quote

Source Book: Leadership and the New Science, Margaret J. Wheatley, 1992

When fear dominates, the freedom needed for play and creative thinking vanishes, stifling innovation.

In simple terms: Fear kills play and creativity.

Key Takeaway

Reduce fear to foster creativity.

Themes

fear creativity leadership play

Mood

anxious reflective

Type

advice inspirational

When to use this quote

  • team meetings
  • design workshops
  • education
  • personal projects

Key Concepts

psychology risk tolerance innovation

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does fear affect your creative process?
  • What steps can you take to create a safer space for play?
A Different Perspective

Fear can also motivate caution, which may be necessary in high‑risk contexts.

4.6 out of 5 (9 ratings)

More by Margaret J. Wheatley

Explore all 112 Margaret J. Wheatley quotes

More Cease quotes

Browse all 1,358 Cease quotes