First, some definitions
To answer the question, let's first define what it means to be creative and creativity. For creative:
relating to or involving the imagination or original ideas, especially in the production of an artistic work.
– Dictionary.com
One of the best definitions I've come across for creativity is:
Creativity is defined as the tendency to generate or recognize ideas, alternatives, or possibilities that may be useful in solving problems, communicating with others, and entertaining ourselves and others.
– Robert E. Franken
Why is being creative important?
You may be asking yourself why is this even important. Well, let me answer with a list. Being creative:
- is essential to problem-solving and innovation
- opens the mind and broadens our perspectives
- can save you from boredom
- can make work fun
- can help you feel more fulfilled
- will challenge your mind
- can help others and make positive changes in the world
- can give you the ability to think outside the box
- can change old patterns or habits of thinking
- can make you more flexible and open to change
- makes facing challenges easier
- creates continuous, self-perpetuating improvement
- is often entertaining or fun to ourselves and/or others
- helps us overcome prejudices
- gives you a voice and allows you to express yourself
- reduces stress and anxiety
- gives you a sense of purpose
- can lead to feelings of accomplishment and pride
- enables us to challenge perceptions
- improves your mood
- increases your knowledge
And those are only a few reasons.
10 ways to be creative
- Through a variety of crafts and hobbies such as pottery and ceramics, soap making, or metal work.
- Write poems, a book, a blog, or freelance articles on topics you know well. Keep a journal.
- Draw, paint, and doodle on paper, canvas, or on a digital device.
- Watch a TED Talk or listen to a podcast.
- Make your surroundings as beautiful and comfortable as you can. Some more ideas.
- Add ambiance to your surroundings through lighting.
- Make even more art, crafts, and sewing.
- Through photography – whether with a DSLR or your phone's camera — using these great ideas.
- Find a new recipe to cook for dinner.
- Go outside in nature, collect small items, and create a shadow box featuring natural items that are native to your area. Make it a keepsake for your family or give it away as a gift.
Sure, the above examples may appear all over the place and there are many more I could list here, but you get the sense that the potential to be creative is everywhere.
Take the quiz
Everyone is creative and to varying degrees. The capacity and ability are within all of us. If you are curious about your level of creativity, take my quiz:
