We live in a complex and disruptive world. Our knowledge is growing exponentially. During the time that children spend their 10 to 13 years at school, their knowledge develops so immensely through science that assumptions made at the beginning of the school year can be completely outdated by the end.
To cite Albert Einstein: "Creativity is intelligence having fun."
To thrive in this disruptive environment as a company we need intelligence. We need people who really enjoy using their brains to find new solutions, to develop new ideas and products. We can't keep on doing things the way previous generations did. We have to explore new possibilities and ways of solving challenges.
What Does Creativity Have to Do With It?
We need open and brave minds to bring together the knowledge of individuals. To think out of the box, we need the courage to be creative. Creativity allows us to explore new ways of thinking, of organizing and of finding extraordinary solutions. Something completely new doesn't derive from the good old best practices.
So, we need creativity to become remarkable — as an individual, as a company and even as a global society.
Creativity in the Workplace
Enhanced Problem-Solving: Creative thinkers approach challenges from multiple angles, often arriving at solutions that conventional thinking would miss.
Increased Adaptability: Creative teams are better equipped to handle change and uncertainty — a crucial advantage in our VUCA world.
Greater Employee Engagement: When people are encouraged to be creative, they feel more valued and engaged. They bring their full selves to work.
Competitive Advantage: Innovation is born from creativity. Companies that foster creative cultures consistently outperform their less creative competitors.
Stronger Collaboration: Creativity encourages teams to build on each other's ideas, fostering a culture of collaboration and mutual respect.
How to Foster Creativity in Your Organisation
- Create psychological safety: People need to feel safe to share unconventional ideas without fear of ridicule.
- Embrace diverse perspectives: Bring together people with different backgrounds and ways of thinking.
- Allow time for exploration: Allow time for experimentation and play.
- Celebrate failure as learning: Treat failures as valuable learning experiences.
- Lead by example: Leaders who demonstrate creative thinking inspire their teams to do the same.
About the Author
Claudia Frahm is a Systemic Coach, Trainer, and New Work Enthusiast. She helps companies meaningfully implement agile working and supports them with creative workshops for further development. She is known for her eye-level work, humor, and her surprising changes of perspective.
