What Parents Can Learn From Rajo Laurel About Creativity and the Inner Child

We’ve all been children once—curious, imaginative, unafraid. We explored freely, asked endless questions, and believed anything was possible. But somewhere between growing up and taking on adult responsibilities, we’re often told to “be realistic,” to toughen up, to leave childish things behind.

And while maturity has its place, Rajo Laurel believes that losing touch with our inner child can also mean losing a vital source of inspiration.

In a candid conversation on Stephanie Zubiri’s podcast Soulful Feast, the fashion designer opened up about creativity, fear, and the importance of staying curious—lessons that resonate not just with creatives, but with parents navigating growth, change, and self-discovery alongside their children.

Here are some of the insights Rajo shared—and why they matter for today’s families.

How do you unlock innate creativity?

For Rajo, creativity begins with acknowledging the inner child.

“That inner child is what drives innate creativity,” he shared. “When you’re four or five, you’re fearless. There are no rules—just pure joy in creating.”

As adults and parents, responsibility can weigh heavily, often leaving little room for imagination. But reconnecting with that childlike sense of play, even briefly, can spark fresh ideas and renewed energy. It’s also a powerful reminder for parents: creativity isn’t something we teach our children—it’s something we model, and we can learn from.

Why fear fuels creative growth

Fear is often seen as the enemy of creativity, but Rajo sees it differently.

“You have to embrace fear because fear is also what drives you forward,” he said. “Feelings are fleeting, but they can be harnessed to feed your creativity.”

This perspective can be grounding. Whether it’s fear of failure, change, or making mistakes, acknowledging fear—and moving forward anyway—teaches resilience not just to ourselves, but to our children watching us closely.

Balancing structure with spontaneity

Life can feel overwhelming, especially during peak seasons of work and family demands. Rajo shared how he intentionally takes breaks, sometimes stepping into unfamiliar spaces to reset.

“I try to pause somewhere I feel free—or go somewhere new,” he said, recalling a recent trip with his partner, Nix Alanon.

Though he admits to being a planner, he appreciates how Nix introduces spontaneity into their lives. “There has to be balance,” he explained. “A little order—but not too much.”

For Rajo, curiosity thrives in the unknown. And for families, allowing room for surprise—unplanned moments, detours, and discovery—can be where the most meaningful memories are made.

The power of acceptance in parenting

Acceptance, according to Rajo, can play a powerful role in inspiration.

“The more you accept and realize how blessed you are, the more the world opens up,” he shared.

Learning to say yes—to opportunities, to growth, to change—is a mindset that nurtures creativity. For parents, acceptance also means allowing ourselves and our children the grace to evolve at our own pace.

Reframing mistakes as possibilities

Mistakes, according to Rajo, are not setbacks—they’re lessons.

“Mistakes open you to possibilities,” he said. “You realize, ‘Pwede pala iyon?’ or ‘I didn’t know that would work.’”

When we open our hearts and minds to the idea that things can go wrong—and still turn out well—we create space for growth. It’s a reminder that perfection isn’t the goal, for us or our children.

Learn to Listen to Constructive Criticism

Rajo recalled receiving a harsh critique early in his career. His father’s advice stayed with him: listen to what helps you grow, and let go of what doesn’t.

“As a creative, you have to remember you have an audience,” he said. “Not everyone will be your cup of tea—and that’s okay.”

For parents raising confident children, this lesson is invaluable: teach discernment, not people-pleasing.

Blocks Will Come—But Keep Going

Inspiration doesn’t always arrive on cue. When it doesn’t, Rajo believes in resetting and simply starting anyway.

For parents and kids alike, the message is simple: try. Begin. See what happens.

Creativity, after all, often reveals itself when we least expect it.