Many of us think that creativity is a special talent, reserved for the lucky few, the artists, or performers. We also think that it is a luxury that only the gifted have – something us ordinary people can do without.
The world-renowned artist Pablo Picasso said: “Art is a fraud that helps us better, to understand life.”
As never before, creativity and creative thinking have become vital skills that we all need for daily problem solving and to lead meaningful lives. We are all born creative in some way, and the time has come to reconnect with our own creativity. As the same Picasso said: “Every child is an artist. The problem is how to remain an artist once he grows up.”
I believe that this is our challenge – to reconnect with the creative child in us and to reclaim that which we have lost through fear, conditioning, and self-doubt. We have it in us to make a difference in the world – but this can only be done with a new, creative approach to everyday life.
People have the unique ability to create the improbable and sometimes the impossible. Creativity relies on areas in the brain involved in focussed attention, goal setting, and the flexibility to adapt to a changing environment. Our creativity starts as a simple thought process, or sometimes a dream. If we respond with enthusiasm, instead of killing the creative fire in us, we open our minds to new solutions and a new way of looking at life’s challenges.
We often hear of “thinking outside the box” when it comes to solving problems. Truly creative people might ask “which box?” because they have taught themselves not to be boxed in. They have learned to define questions and problems creatively before they start looking for answers or solutions. How do you access your own creativity? By firstly believing that it is there. The second step is the most difficult – to kill the internal critic who fears imperfection. Ask yourself which activities make you feel the most creative and alive. Go for a walk to open your thought processes.
Let go of inhibitions and the voice of self-doubt. Allow yourself to play without worrying about the end product. Get creative by rediscovering your inner creative child. This will not only make you come alive but will make a difference in your life and who knows, to the world around you.
