Closing the Creativity Gap

Creativity. The spark of inspiration that ignites invention. The place where imagination creates magic and original ideas are born. The beating heart of forward progress in society. The rocket that propels our economy to even greater heights.

Creativity is the fuel that inspires people to become entrepreneurs or take the leap to go self-employed. It also offers a chance to explore new business solutions and societal challenges. Research by Investors in People shows that in an outperforming organisation, creativity is integral to success, suggesting it also impacts on an organisation’s bottom line.

According to the Adobe State of Create Report in 2012, only 1 in 4 people surveyed believe they are living up to their potential to be creative. Yet 8 in 10 people believe that unlocking creativity is critical to economic growth. This leaves a gaping void – a gap between the raw potential and the actual realisation of our nation’s creativity.

Despite this gap, creativity is more in demand than ever before in the workplace. A significant 58% of employers expect creativity skills to grow in importance over coming years. It’s a vital skill now and for the future. So how can employers encourage creative thinking and close the creativity gap?

Research shows that people are most creative in an environment where individual ability is recognised, new approaches are encouraged, and leaders set good examples. Where there is a focus on the challenges of the future. Here are my top three ways to close the creativity gap:

1. Make time to be creative

It may sound obvious, but in our frenetic paced home and working lives, it’s important to put time aside for creative thinking. This critical skill can be used to create solutions to even complex problems, making work easier and more enjoyable.

2. Ensure you have the right tools to help you create

Apps like SimpleMind help you conjure up new ideas, to organize your thoughts and keep a hold of things when they come to mind. Tools like this enable you to order your thoughts and to mind map, even on the move..

3. Be inspired by others

Mingle with people who have created in their own unique ways; from arts through to business and sciences. Allow yourself to be immersed in their creative worlds and to be inspired by their journeys. Be inspired by watching TED Talks to feed your curiosity.

Perhaps most importantly of all, we need to think of creativity more broadly. Creativity is not just the domain of artists, musicians or designers. This important and coveted skill is essential for a successful society and is waiting to be unleashed in every single one of us