SHIFTING YOUR MINDSET - SIMPLE BUT POWERFUL
In my years of leading creative workshops, I’ve witnessed how deeply self-perception about creativity influences creative performance. Many people, convinced that they lack creativity, avoid creative activities altogether. They often view creativity as a fixed trait or an innate talent, and they do not believe they possess it. Even when they do attempt creative tasks, they feel uncomfortable, unsure of where to start or how to proceed, and incompetent.
But I see creativity differently. Rather than being an innate gift, creativity is a potential we ALL possess, something that can be learned and cultivated. Like physical fitness, creativity is something everyone can enjoy, experience, and benefit from. And just like in sports, creativity has the greatest impact when practiced, not merely observed. The more we engage with it, the more regularly we practice, the easier it is to start, the clearer we see our path and the more we progress.
Recent findings from the OECD’s comprehensive study support this view. A key factor influencing creativity is mindset - specifically, whether individuals see creativity as a fixed trait or a skill that can be developed over time. According to the OECD (PISA 2022 RESULTS, VOLUME III © OECD 2024), students who believe in their ability to nurture and improve their creativity tend to perform better in creative thinking assessments than those with a fixed mindset. As the study points out, "on average across OECD countries, holding a growth mindset on creativity was positively associated with creative thinking performance" (PISA 2022 RESULTS, VOLUME III © OECD 2024, p. 164). On the other hand, students who view creativity as an unchangeable ability perform worse on tasks requiring creative thought.
Shifting our mindset to view creativity as a skill everyone can develop, not only benefits individuals but also has the power to transform society. When we collectively embrace and nurture creativity, we open the door to innovation, problem-solving, and progress - but also to more fulfilled individuals and stronger, more vibrant communities. To thrive in an ever-changing world, we must begin to see creativity differently -not just as a personal asset but as an essential tool for growth and well-being.
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