I try to be a performer first. So I don't create to create. Sometimes I stumble upon something on my own. and play with it. May even use it for kicks. More of a creative exercise for me. I don't need to work on creating a new double lift or color change or pass, as there are already a million different ones that suit my needs and desires.
Well said. I stand on the shoulders of those that came before me and use their creations and ideas to create... magic. I use others moves with my plot and my patter to show my audiences what is impossible.
I suspect that learning a sleight takes less than 10% of the time as inventing one. While other folks invented (or re-invented) a move, I learned at least 10 sleights.
Also, how many of the moves you've invented do you use in a effect (other than a "look I can find your card in a really unique way") with patter (other than than the typical "say-do-see" explanation of what is happening)?
And yes, I'm a little cranky this morning.