Developing Creativity

Written by Leigh Martinuzzi 

Creativity is often seen as a novel pursuit, one that is characterised by a false reality combined with some degree of realism. Some might argue that creativity is of little value. There to entertain an individual or group or people with dreams and story. To transport us to a world lacking logic or rationality and therefore usually an activity without any actual purpose.

Is creativity a wasted pursuit?

Does it solely exist to bring joy to the creator?

Does it lack any tangible reward?

Is creativity purposeful to our survival and human progression?

What is considered by value? Firstly, the value or worth of something is determined by a collective or individual perspective. It is what we would regard as of quality, importance, or usefulness. Something may have a materialistic or monetary value, or it may be less tangible and carry an emotional, psychological or physiological value. What I value you may not.

Based on that as our definition of value, in my opinion, any creative pursuit indeed does contain some level of significance. Is creativity a wasted pursuit? It ultimately boils down to the exchange one may receive as a direct result of their creative pursuits.

I enjoy writing! It’s my creative ritual. It brings me joy in learning and self-expression. I don’t see it as a wasted pursuit and yet others might. Value also results from the rewards others may receive. If someone reads a blog of mine, they may gain the satisfaction through stimulated curiosity or joy. It may even assist them in finding more meaning in life. Will my work change the world, not likely! Could it have a positive impact on the quality of another’s life? I suppose it could. That then is valuable.

Unlike the creative workings of some of our modern-day superheroes, in an example, Elon Musk’s creativity leads to a significant amount of value that is redefining the reality of our existence. Twenty years ago, what he dreamt of may have been seen as a very novel state or idealism and yet through his creative endeavours and that of his team they have introduced us to incredible advancements in technology and how we do things. The progression of the humankind arises most often because of our creative processes and pursuits.

In Yuval Noah Harari’s book, Sapiens, he argues that humans are the leaders of the earth because of our ability to communicate and tell stories. Stories and the way we relay them is a creative process. Creativity is a fundamentally human process. Without it, we may no longer exist.

Cognitive thought combined with a creative flare allow us to solve some of our toughest problems so that we can evolve and progress. The ability for humans to create tools have ensured our longevity without them we may not have been able to eat and build homes providing us with warmth, good health and protection from beasts more endowed with genetic strengths. Global warming, rapid advances in tech, food shortage, and over-population may be overcome through our united creative pursuit.

Yes, creativity serves a purpose from the very moderate to the highly valuable. It is purposeful for our survival and progression. It has many intangible qualities, too. Self-expression, joy, stories – a gateway to better relationships, problem-solving, shifting perspectives, momentum and flow. I might argue that it has more purpose then much of the other rubbish that consumes a lot of our modern-day lives. So, enough said, go out there and get creative.

Further Reading and Resources 

TED Talks: Ideas worth spreading

Psychology Today: Psychology Today is devoted exclusively to everybody’s favourite subject – Ourselves

Life Hack: Tips for Life

Elite Daily: The Voice of Generation Y

Four Hour Work Week: How to escape the 9-5, live anywhere and join the new rich.

The Minimalists: How to pursue a minimalist lifestyle and be happier.

Mind Hacks: Tips and Tricks for Using Your Brain

Rich Roll: Plantpowered Wellness Advocate

The Art of Charm: Build confidence, feel comfortable and networking differently.

American Psychological Association: The largest scientific and professional organization of psychologists in the United State

The Art of Manliness: Encouraging men to be better husbands, fathers, brothers, citizens.

Tiny Buddha: Simple wisdom for complex lives.

Brain Pickings: An inventory of cross-disciplinary interestingness, spanning art, science, design, history, philosophy, and more.

Mind Body Green: Lifestyle media brand dedicated to inspiring you to live your best life.

Zen Habits: Find simplicity and mindfulness in life.

Creative NonFiction: “true stories well told.” 

Addicted 2 Success: Motivation & Inspiration Website full of quotes and inspiring articles for entrepreneurs.

Barking Up the Wrong Tree: science-based answers and expert insight on how to be awesome at life.

The Positivity Blog: Practical articles on happiness, self-esteem, productivity and social skills.