It's no secret that creativity is important. After all, it's what drives innovation and progress around the world. But there are a lot of myths about creativity that can hold people back from harnessing their own creative potential.
Here are six common myths about creativity – and why you shouldn't believe them.
WHAT I'VE EXPERIENCED:
Myth One: Creativity Is Only for the "Creative Type"
This is probably the most common myth about creativity. And it's also one of the most damaging. The truth is, everyone is creative. It's not just a trait reserved for artists, musicians, and writers. Everyone can be creative – it's just a matter of tapping into that potential.
Myth Two: Creativity Is All About Coming Up with New Ideas
This is obviously wrong. Creativity is not just about generating new ideas. Anyone can come up with an idea, but it takes creativity to turn it into something tangible.
Myth Three: You Have to Be in a "Creative Mood" to Be Creative
This is another myth that can hold people back from being creative. The truth is, you don't need to be in a specific mood to be creative. Creativity can strike at any time – all you need is the willingness to act on your ideas.
Myth Four: Creativity Is a Solo Activity
While it's true that creativity often starts with an individual, it doesn't have to be a solo activity. In fact, some of the most creative ideas come from collaborations. Brainstorming with others can help you generate new ideas and perspectives you might not have thought of on your own.
Myth Five: There's No Room for Creativity in Business
This is perhaps the most dangerous myth of all. The fact is, creativity is essential for businesses – especially in today's ever-changing, fast-paced world. Companies that embrace creativity are more likely to succeed than those that don't.
Myth Six: There's Only One "Right" Way to Do Things
This is probably the most harmful myth of all. Creativity is all about thinking differently and solving a problem. It’s about coming up with new ways to solve problems. If you're only ever looking for the one "right" way to do things, you'll never be able to tap into your creativity.
So, there you have six myths about creativity that you need to stop believing. Remember, creativity is not just for the "creative type." It's for everyone. And businesses need creativity to thrive. So, do not allow these dangerous myths to keep you from tapping into your creative potential. Instead, embrace your creativity and let it flow.
WHAT THE PROFESSIONALS ARE SAYING:
“Creativity is just connecting things. When you ask creative people how they did something, they feel a little guilty because they didn’t really do it, they just saw something. It seemed obvious to them after a while.” — Steve Jobs
“The worst enemy to creativity is self-doubt.” — Sylvia Plath“Creativity is allowing oneself to make mistakes. Art is knowing which ones to keep.” — Scott Adam
LET'S CHAT
Did you believe in any of the myths mentioned above? Are there any other preconceptions about creativity that were not mentioned?
-I'll catch you in class,
Dante
Dante