In fact, today, as I sit down at my PowerBook - screen glowing, machinery humming - with this subject on my mind, I feel the intimidation is even more present. When I turn on this device I'm even told how many megabytes are available, in effect reminded just how huge, in technological terms, this blank sheet of paper really is.

As an advertising writer for 20 years I've faced the blank sheet of paper on thousands of occasions. And each time I've asked myself the same question, "Am I creative enough?"

Yes, I've pulled through many, many times before. But each time it's a new challenge. And each time I have to ask myself all over again, "Am I creative enough? Can I do it this time? Am I good enough?"

That's the question, psychologists tell us, that plagues most people with "problems".

"Am I good enough?"

Well, I'm not a psychologist. Will never pretend to be. And I don't intend to make light of such a deep, potentially damaging notion as a human being asking for such an all-telling judgment.

But I will tell you that I believe the insecurity articulated in the expression "Am I creative enough?" can actually be one of the more powerful motivators in any creative pursuit.