Defining Creativity

creativity is:
"The ability to generate, connect, or transform ideas, concepts, or solutions in novel and valuable ways."
It involves both originality (coming up with something new) and effectiveness (making it useful or meaningful). Creativity isn’t limited to the arts—it applies to problem-solving, innovation, communication, and everyday life.
Psychologist Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi, who studied creativity extensively, described it as:
"Creativity is any act, idea, or product that changes an existing domain or that transforms an existing domain into a new one."
Symmetricalized Photos By Golda

​People who don't think they are creative often misunderstand what creativity really is. Here are ten crucial things to know about it:

  1. Creativity is a Skill, Not Just a Talent – It’s not something you’re simply born with or without; it can be developed through practice, just like any other skill.
    “Creativity is a habit, and the best creativity is the result of good work habits.” — Twyla Tharp
  2. Creativity Takes Many Forms – It’s not just about art, music, or writing. Problem-solving, cooking, humor, and even organizing your workspace require creative thinking. 
    “Creativity involves breaking out of established patterns in order to look at things in a different way.” — Edward de Bono
  3. Your Brain is Already Creative – Every time you make a decision, adapt to a new situation, or come up with a solution, you’re using creativity. 
    “You can’t use up creativity. The more you use, the more you have.” — Maya Angelou
  4. Curiosity Fuels Creativity – Asking questions, exploring different perspectives, and being open to new experiences naturally enhance creative thinking.  
    “The important thing is not to stop questioning. Curiosity has its own reason for existing.” — Albert Einstein
  5. Constraints Can Boost Creativity – Limitations (like time, money, or resources) often force people to think in innovative ways and come up with original solutions. “
    The enemy of art is the absence of limitations.”     — Orson Welles
  6. Failure is Part of the Process – Mistakes and failures aren’t signs of a lack of creativity; they are essential steps toward breakthroughs and success.  
    "Ever tried. Ever failed. No matter. Try again. Fail again. Fail better.” — Samuel Beckett
  7. Inspiration Comes from Action – You don’t have to wait for a "eureka" moment. Creativity often emerges from doing—starting small, experimenting, and refining as you go. 
    “You can’t wait for inspiration. You have to go after it with a club.” — Jack London
  8. Comparison Kills Creativity – Judging yourself against “naturally talented” people can be discouraging. Focus on your own growth instead of comparing yourself to others.  
    “Be yourself; everyone else is already taken.” — Oscar Wilde
  9. Daydreaming is Productive – Letting your mind wander can lead to unexpected ideas and insights. Some of the best creative moments happen when you’re relaxed. 
    “You get your best thoughts when you’re alone, when you’re showering, when you’re just idly thinking.” — Lin-Manuel Miranda
  10. Collaboration Sparks New Ideas – Talking with others, even outside your field, exposes you to new ways of thinking and can generate unexpected creative solutions. “Chance favors the connected mind.” — Steven Johnson​