Creativity is a valuable skill in any career, but many people believe some myths that limit their creative potential and performance. In this article, you will learn about the most common creativity myths that hold back your career and how to overcome them.
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One of the most widespread myths is that creativity is a rare talent that only some people have. This myth implies that creativity is fixed and innate, and that you cannot improve it. However, creativity is not a trait, but a skill that can be learned and developed. Everyone has the capacity to be creative, and you can enhance it by practicing, experimenting, and learning from others.
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In the modern business world, creativity is valued as the most important skill. For organizations, the environment of creativity and innovation are the number one strategic priorities. Many researchers would agree that solving problems and exploiting opportunities requires thinking creatively to find useful and original ideas. Creativity is an integral part of today's work, not just for strategists or CEOs, but for everyone.
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1- Creativity is an inherent talent within all of us as human beings. However, it is crucial to establish an environment where this talent can flourish. Simultaneously, it's important to discern what constitutes creativity in specific cases and to recognize the various levels of creativity within the domains of work or learning.
Another common myth is that creativity is only for artists or people in creative fields. This myth assumes that creativity is only about producing artistic works, and that other domains do not require or value creativity. However, creativity is not only about aesthetics, but also about solving problems, generating ideas, and finding new ways of doing things. Creativity is relevant and useful in any field, and you can apply it to any challenge or opportunity you face.
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I used to think that to be creative, you have to be "artsy"--however, it wasn't until someone asked me what being creative means to me that I realized I was restricting what creativity ACTUALLY was.
I realized that my creative strengths came from my unique project ideas within internships, creative programs I made for residents, and creating communications for employer branding. The point is: You define your way of creativity; don't limit yourself to thinking that being creative is only for artists.
When challenging yourself to be creative, think of something interesting that wouldn't normally be done for what you're doing, and start brainstorming.
You're creative in YOUR way--don't conform to anything (or one) that says otherwise.
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Creativity is no longer seen only as what artists and musicians process. It's a crucial skill for professionals in all fields. Creativity is the act of turning new and imaginative ideas into reality. It is characterized by the ability to perceive the world in new ways, find hidden patterns, make connections between seemingly unrelated phenomena, and generate solutions. It involves two processes: thinking and producing. It requires passion and commitment, as it brings to our consciousness what was previously hidden and points to a new existence.
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2- A quote from Vincent van Gogh aligns with my perspective on this concept: "I am seeking. I am striving. I am in it with all my heart."
Adopting this mindset holds significance; it doesn't matter in which area of your life you apply it. Know that if you feel this way, it's a signal that you are in the process of creating.
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**Creativity is equal to problem-solving with relevance and novelty**
Creativity, often misunderstood as a trait solely for artists, actually extends far beyond artistic realms. It is the art of solving problems in relevant and novel ways. This universal skill is not confined to the arts. Everyone exercises creativity as we all solve problems daily. Whether crafting unique solutions at work or improvising in everyday life, creativity merges practicality with ingenuity. It's not just about being original, but also about effectively addressing challenges. Thus, creativity is a versatile, everyday skill, accessible to everyone, not just those in traditionally creative fields.
A third myth is that creativity comes from inspiration, and that you have to wait for the right moment or mood to be creative. This myth suggests that creativity is spontaneous and unpredictable, and that you cannot control or influence it. However, creativity is not a result of inspiration, but a process of exploration and iteration. You can be creative anytime and anywhere, and you can stimulate it by seeking feedback, asking questions, and testing assumptions.
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Creativity is not a magical gift given to a few lucky people, it is a skill that you can hone and develop. The trick is figuring out how to flex your creativity muscles.
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The act of creating something is an outcome of a process that involves blending skills, context, and inputs such as information, coupled with the practice of doing. The latter two, practice and deeps into information, are pivotal concepts that underscore the idea that creativity is not a magical gift given to a few lucky people like Metztli Milán Román says.
I would like to use another quote to illustrate this: âInspiration exists, but it has to find you working.â Pablo Picasso
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While we often view creativity as a spark of magical inspiration, the truth is much more grounded and hopeful. Creativity isn't just a fleeting moment of genius; it's a skill deeply rooted in problem-solving, something we can all cultivate and grow.
Think of Thomas Edison and his 1000 patents. His success wasn't a solo act of brilliance but a symphony of collaborative efforts. It shows us that creativity blooms not in isolation, but in the rich soil of teamwork and shared ideas.
This means that each of us has the potential to be creative, not because we're touched by some mystical talent, but because we all have the ability to look at problems and think of solutions in our unique way.
A fourth myth is that creativity is individual, and that you have to work alone to be creative. This myth implies that creativity is personal and isolated, and that collaboration or input from others will hinder or dilute it. However, creativity is not a solitary activity, but a social one. You can be more creative by working with others, sharing perspectives, and building on each other's ideas.
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Relationship creativity is in our DNA. We can decide to engage differently with others and even with ourselves. We can decide to connect people in different and new ways. Everyone explores different ways of relating to others. Think about it, we move forward, we move backward, we pivot, we circle back in order to create an ongoing relationship. We all do this, regardless of who we are and even in the most restrictive environments.
A fifth myth is that creativity is always original, and that you have to come up with something new and novel to be creative. This myth expects that creativity is about inventing or discovering something that has never been done before, and that copying or adapting from others is cheating or lazy. However, creativity is not always original, but often a combination or remix of existing elements. You can be creative by borrowing, modifying, and integrating ideas from different sources.
A sixth myth is that creativity is without rules, and that you have to break or ignore them to be creative. This myth believes that creativity is about freedom and rebellion, and that constraints or guidelines will limit or stifle it. However, creativity is not without rules, but often thrives on them. You can be creative by embracing or creating rules, and using them as a framework or a challenge to guide your thinking.
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Me permito añadir 3 mitos más:
Mito 7: La creatividad sólo surge en momentos de libertad total. En realidad, la creatividad a menudo florece bajo ciertas restricciones o desafÃos, que pueden servir como catalizadores para el pensamiento innovador.
Mito 8: La creatividad es siempre espontánea y rápida. Contrariamente, el proceso creativo puede ser lento y requiere paciencia. La incubación de ideas a menudo implica tiempo y reflexión antes de que surjan soluciones efectivas.
Mito 9: La creatividad disminuye con la edad. La creatividad no está limitada por la edad; de hecho, la experiencia y el conocimiento acumulados pueden enriquecer la capacidad creativa.
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I think another one is that there's a common myth that to be creative, you need to do grand, monumental things, like painting a massive mural, designing the next revolutionary car, or always having the latest tools. But true creativity often thrives in the small, everyday steps. It's like nurturing a garden â you don't need to plant an entire forest to make an impact. Even the tiniest seed can grow into something beautiful.
Just like in the concept of atomic habits, small, consistent actions can lead to significant changes over time. You don't need to make a big splash; sometimes, it's the subtle ripples that create the most lasting effects. Each day, try to add a little more creativity to your routine.