WTH is Creativity? And Why You Are More Creative Than You Think

Creativity is one of those buzzwords that gets thrown around a lot now. We hear it everywhere from art, and innovation, to even business strategies. But what does it really mean?

I have lost count of how many people told me, “I’m not that creative, will you help me?”

This one’s to all those people who think some are just born with the silver spoon of creativity— turns out it’s a skill we all possess and can nurture.

Let me break it down!

What even is creativity?

Can we define it in simple terms?

This is how Google defines ‘creativity’

Google definition of creativity, Source: google.com

Now think of the word creativity!

What’s the first thing that comes to your mind?

A picture of a painter or painting? A musician composing a symphony? A piece of a poem? While these are certainly creative pursuits, creativity is much broader than that. At its core, creativity is the ability to generate ideas, and solve problems that are valuable.

• Creativity in everyday life: It’s the parent who invents a game to keep their kids entertained. It’s the engineer who designs a more efficient system. It’s the teacher who finds a new way to explain a complex concept. Creativity is everywhere.

• The science of creativity: According to a study published in the Harvard Business Review, creativity involves two key processes: divergent thinking (coming up with many ideas) and convergent thinking (narrowing down to the best one). This means creativity isn’t just about wild ideas, but making those ideas work.

The Brain on Creativity: It’s Not Just the Right Side

For years, we’ve been told that creativity is all about the right side of the brain. While it’s true that the right hemisphere plays a role in imagination and intuition, creativity is actually a whole-brain activity.

• The default mode network: This part of the brain is active when daydreaming or letting our minds wander. It’s where ideas often come from.

• The executive control network: This is the part of the brain that helps us focus and make decisions. It’s what helps us refine and execute our creative ideas.

• The interplay: A study in Nature Neuroscience found that highly creative people have stronger connections between these networks. In other words, creativity is about connecting the dots.

Why You’re More Creative Than You Think

Here’s the thing: You’re already creative. You might not realize it because we’ve been conditioned to think of creativity as something extraordinary. But it’s only a natural part of being human.

A depiction of creativity. Source: Thin lean six sigma

• The 98% rule: In a famous study by Dr. George Land, 98% of 5-year-olds scored as creative geniuses. By the time they were 15, that number dropped to 12%. By adulthood, only 2% scored as highly creative. Why? Because we’re taught to conform, follow rules, and fear failure.

• Everyday creativity: Think about the last time you solved a problem at work, came up with a clever excuse to get out of plans, or figured out how to stretch your budget. That’s creativity in action.

• The confidence gap: A Forbes study found that 75% of people believe they’re not living up to their creative potential. The truth is, you’re probably more creative than you give yourself credit for—you just don’t recognize it.

What’s Holding You Back?

If creativity is so natural, why do so many of us struggle with it? Here are the top culprits:

1. Fear of failure: The fear of being wrong or making mistakes can paralyze creativity.

2. Perfectionism: Trying to be perfect stifles experimentation. Creativity thrives in the messy, imperfect process.

3. Stress and burnout: Stress reduces cognitive flexibility, a key component of creativity. When you’re stressed, your brain is less able to make the connections that lead to creative ideas.

How to Unlock Your Inner Creative Genius

The good news? You can develop and nurture creativity. Here’s how you can nurture it:

1. Embrace curiosity: Ask questions, explore new hobbies, and stay open to learning. Curiosity is the fuel for creativity.

2. Practice divergent thinking: Set aside time to brainstorm without judgment. The more ideas you generate, the more likely you are to find a good one.

3. Take breaks: Taking breaks improves focus and creativity. So, step away from your desk and let your mind wander.

4. Collaborate: Creativity thrives in diverse groups. Surround yourself with people who think differently than you.

8 ways to boost creativity, Source: theperformanceroom

Small Acts, Big Impact

Creativity is a tool you can use to make your everyday life more interesting and fulfilling.

• At work: Use creative problem-solving to streamline processes, pitch innovative ideas, or find new ways to collaborate with your team.

• At home: Turn mundane tasks into fun challenges. For example, how can you organize your closet in 10 minutes? Or what’s a creative way to use leftovers for dinner?

• In relationships: Surprise your loved ones with thoughtful, out-of-the-box gestures. It could be as simple as writing a heartfelt note or planning a unique date night.

The Future of Creativity: Why It Matters More Than Ever

In a world increasingly dominated by automation and artificial intelligence, creativity is becoming a uniquely human advantage.

• Automation and AI: Machines are great at repetitive tasks, but they struggle with creativity.

• Global challenges: Solving issues like climate change, inequality, and public health requires creative thinking. We need bold, innovative ideas to tackle these complex problems.

• The workforce of the future: A World Economic Forum report lists creativity as one of the top three skills needed for the future workforce. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, employee, or student, creativity will be a key driver of success.

You’re a Creative Powerhouse—Own It

Creativity isn’t a mystical gift reserved for a select few. It’s a muscle you can strengthen, a skill you can develop, and a mindset you can adopt. If you’re brainstorming ideas, solving problems, or just trying to make life more interesting, you’re already using your creative abilities. So, stop doubting yourself and start creating. The world needs your unique ideas.

How about starting now?

Try a new activity this week apart from what you usually do—whether it’s writing, cooking, or even rearranging your furniture. And let me know!