Bold Idea: Creativity Can Be Learned
5 lil' ways to cultivate your creativity by shaking up your status quo.
Creativity isn’t an innate trait reserved only for artistic pursuits, we each use it to innovate and problem-solve. And we all have untapped creative potential – even those who entered the world with an explosion of glitter, belting out a high C (you know who you are).
“We are all naturally creative and, like every other skill, some people have more natural talent than others. However, everyone can increase his or her creativity, just as everyone can increase his or her musical or athletic ability, with appropriate training and focused practice. We can all learn tools and techniques that enhance creativity, and build environments that foster innovation.”
– Tina Seelig, faculty director of the Stanford Technology Ventures Program
In today's rapidly changing world, where challenges emerge constantly, creativity has become crucial to our survival.
5 Lil’ Ways to Cultivate Your Creativity
Get out of your comfort zone. Challenge yourself to experience new things outside of your routine.
Get curious about everything around you. What if you were seeing everything for the first time and nothing had a name? Be present in the moment.
Collaborate with others. Partner with folks who have different strengths and skill sets. [This gets my Introvert stamp of approval. No man is an island.]
Surround yourself with inspiration. Connect with people who challenge themselves, and fill your space with items that inspire you.
View failure as a mid-point instead of the end. Trying and failing and trying again leads to breakthroughs in thought patterns.
WATCH: Can We Create a New Future?
It’s so important to learn how to consistently step outside of your comfort zone. When you try new things or approach a problem from a different perspective, it can stimulate creativity and lead to surprising solutions.
When I decided that my life would be an exploration, I had to open myself up to a journey that tests me, my skills, stamina, abilities, and agility. Of course, I try to figure out shortcuts and hacks that make the journey easier and the pitstops more joyful. Hence, Lil’ Habit.
If this bold idea resonates with you, make it stick by discussing it with someone.