Creativity is not Madness
Creativity is not only doing something new, something original, something unconventional, but also something that has a purpose, that is good for something. Yes, some artists have a streak for … unconventional or eccentric behavior and the archetype of a creative scientist is usually a little mad, but being creative does not mean just throwing color at the canvas or tinkering with machinery without knowing what it does. If you (act like you) are insane you are original, but no one (but your wardens) will care. You have to be different from the rest to be original but still be able to keep the contact with the people around you and the facts so that others can understand you. Explore new worlds but keep a trail behind you so that others can follow you. Cross rivers but leave bridges.
Pitfall: Becoming a madman
It might be tempting to act like a madman, violating the norms of decency (in art) or of ethics (in science). But the rules or norms are there for a reason, if only to make you think very hard if you have a really good reason for breaking it. While acting like a maniac might give you instant reputation, it will rarely be the recognition you strive for. Unless you have an aim that can be seen in your work (other than getting famous, that is), people will see right through you. If not immediately than after some time and once you got you reputation as mad idiot your career (in art and science) is pretty much finished. While artists might be difficult to judge, it is actually easier for scientists and engineers: their work must lead to predictions that can be supported by empirical evidence (science) or they must simply work (engineering).
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