developing creativity esoft skills. module one: getting started creativity and innovation will...

Developing Creativity

eSoft Skills

Module One: Getting Started

Creativity and innovation will improve your chances of success in business and in life. Fortunately, there are steps that can be take to inspire you and develop your creative mindset. By changing the way that you think and overcoming your fear of risk, you will improve you creativity and change your life.

An essential aspect of creativity is not being afraid to fail.

Edwin Land

Workshop Objectives

Define creativity

Engage in

curiosity

Take risks

Module Two: What Is Creativity?

There are different types of creativity, which makes it difficult to define. People often limit their definitions of creativity to art, but this is too limiting. Creativity comes in the form of original thought, divergent thinking, problem solving, inspiration, and imagination.

Creativity involves breaking out of established patterns in order to look at things in a different way.

Edward de Bono

Divergent Thinking

Spontaneous Multiple options

Brainstorming Imagination activities

Problem Solving

Do not make assumptions

Be open to different options

Look at the big picture

Keep looking

Imagination and Inspiration

New experiences

Read

Daydream and meditate

Something Out of Nothing

Imagination

Inspiration

No single method

Case Study

Steve was a logical person who prided himself on his problem solving skills

He focused on the convergent thinking

A manager challenged them to apply creative problem solving

Steve was unimpressed with the idea

Module Two: Review Questions

1. Which of the following thinking is analytical?

a) Engagingb) Divergentc) Creatived) Convergent

2. Which of the following thought process is focused on finding different answer choices?



3. What is often incorrectly assumed?

a) Similar problems share a solutionb) Problems are uniquec) The solution is easy to findd) All of the above

4. What do you need to look at when problem solving?

a) In houseb) It does not matterc) The big pictured) None of the above


5. What is Not a way to improve imagination?

a) Read storiesb) Creativityc) Restd) Daydream

6. What prompts creativity?

a) Imaginationb) Nothingc) Everythingd) Inspiration


7. What do we value?

a) Originalityb) Changec) Inspirationd) All of the above

8. In which setting can you create something new?

a) Scienceb) Artc) Office d) All of the above


9. What best describes Steve?

a) Logicalb) Creativec) Playfuld) Imaginative

10.What did creative problem solving help increase?

a) Happiness b) Salesc) Productivityd) Closures


1. Which of the following thinking is analytical?


Convergent thought is traditional analytical thought that looks for the correct answer. Divergent thought looks for the multiple answers.

2. Which of the following thought process is focused on finding different answer choices?


Convergent thought is traditional analytical thought that looks for the correct answer. Divergent thought looks for the multiple answers.


3. What is often incorrectly assumed?

a) Similar problems share a solutionb) Problems are uniquec) The solution is easy to findd) All of the above

In problem solving, it is easy to assume that similar problems all have the same solution. This is an incorrect assumption.

4. What do you need to look at when problem solving?

a) In houseb) It does not matterc) The big pictured) None of the above

Problem solving requires looking at the big picture. This is done in addition to being open-minded and viewing the problem in different ways.


5. What is Not a way to improve imagination?

a) Read storiesb) Creativityc) Restd) Daydream

Imagination is important to creativity. The other answers are useful for empowering imagination.

6. What prompts creativity?

a) Imaginationb) Nothingc) Everythingd) Inspiration

Inspiration prompts creativity. It provides motivation to people who feel like they should create something.


7. What do we value?

a) Originalityb) Changec) Inspirationd) All of the above

Creativity is thinking of something new. This is why we value originality.

8. In which setting can you create something new?

a) Scienceb) Artc) Office d) All of the above

It is possible to be creative in any setting. The correct answer is all of the above.


9. What best describes Steve?

a) Logicalb) Creativec) Playfuld) Imaginative

Steve is a logical and analytical individual. He was a convergent thinker.

10.What did creative problem solving help increase?

a) Happiness b) Salesc) Productivityd) Closures

As Steve learned creative problem solving, he began to increase his productivity.

Module Three: Getting Inspired

Motivation and inspiration go hand in hand. When you are inspired, you increase your level of creativity. You should not simply wait for inspiration to find you. You need to get in touch with what you are passionate about and what inspires you.

Passion is one great force that unleashes creativity because if you’re passionate about something, then you’re more willing to take risks.

Yo-Yo Ma

Introspection

Self-examination

In tune with feelings

Journaling and meditation

Read MoreStimulates thinking

Include fictional works

At least 15 minutes a day

Removing the Mental Block

A change of scenery Meditate

Busy work Exercise

Art Inspires Art

Art that speaks to you

Immerse yourself

Art is inspirational

Case Study

Alice had difficulty finding inspiration for her new project

She was constantly distracted

A friend suggested that Alice go to the park

She was able to address her own thoughts and feelings and refocus on the task at hand

Module Three: Review Questions

1. What does journaling improve?

a) Introspectionb) Creativityc) Inspirationd) All of the above

2. Introspection helps identify _______.

a) Creativityb) Understandingc) Inspirationd) Relationships


3. Which type of reading material connects with the imagination?

a) All of themb) Fictionc) Non fictiond) Biography

4. What is true of reading goals?

a) Must be followedb) Must be approvedc) Must be originald) Must be realistic


5. What removes mental blocks?

a) Interest b) Distractionc) Timed) Effort

6. What is not a useful method of removing a mental block?

a) Read b) Busy workc) Exercised) Work


7. Art must speak on which level?

a) Personalb) Collectivec) Creatived) None of the above

8. How should you respond when you find inspiring art?

a) Look for moreb) Remember itc) Immerse yourselfd) None of the above


9. Where did she find introspection?

a) Homeb) Parkc) Officed) Car

10.How did Alice view herself?

a) Unimportantb) Importantc) Successd) Failure


1. What does journaling improve?

a) Introspectionb) Creativityc) Inspirationd) All of the above

Introspection provides self-awareness. Journaling and meditation improve introspection.

2. Introspection helps identify _______.

a) Creativityb) Understandingc) Inspirationd) Relationships

Introspection provides understanding that identifies inspiration. This improves creative thinking.


3. Which type of reading material connects with the imagination?

a) All of themb) Fictionc) Non fictiond) Biography

Fiction stories are necessary to engage the imagination. This helps improve creativity.

4. What is true of reading goals?

a) Must be followedb) Must be approvedc) Must be originald) Must be realistic

Reading goals need to be realistic. Unrealistic goals will not be met.


5. What removes mental blocks?

a) Interest b) Distractionc) Timed) Effort

Mental block affect everyone. Distractions will refocus attention.

6. What is not a useful method of removing a mental block?

a) Read b) Busy workc) Exercised) Work

Distractions are needed to remove mental blocks. Working is not a distraction. The other answers are.


7. Art must speak on which level?

a) Personalb) Collectivec) Creatived) None of the above

Art is inspiring. For a piece of art to inspire creativity, it must speak to you on a personal level.

8. How should you respond when you find inspiring art?

a) Look for moreb) Remember itc) Immerse yourselfd) None of the above

When you find art that speaks to you, you need to immerse yourself in it. This will inspire creativity.


9. Where did she find introspection?

a) Homeb) Parkc) Officed) Car

Alice went to the park to be alone with her thoughts. She found introspection at the park.

10. How did Alice view herself?

a) Unimportantb) Importantc) Successd) Failure

Alice faced how she viewed herself. She believed she was a failure, which hindered her creativity.

Module Four: Beating Procrastination

Whether we are inspired or not, we will always have to fight procrastination. There are always distractions and excuses to prevent us from reaching our goals and keep us in the running behind schedule.

Procrastination is the thief of time.

Edward Young

Get Rid of Clutter

Remove unnecessary items

Put things back where they go

Clean up the area at the end of each workday

Self-Imposed Limitations

Change of mindset

Look at the situation honestly

Set real goals

Build on Small Successes

Focus on success

Setting small goals

Create an environment of

success

Don’t Start at the Beginning

Case Study

Jennifer had goals and ideas, but she found herself constantly procrastinating

She would become and see 20 minutes had passed

She decided to remove the clutter from her workspace

Jennifer was able to see progress after a while

Module Four: Review Questions

1. Which type of nonessential items can you keep?

a) Inspirationalb) Usefulc) Interestingd) None

2. What needs to be done before bringing new items to a clutter free environment?

a) Nothingb) You cannot bring anything new inc) Remove an itemd) Find a place


3. Where do the limitations come from that lead to procrastination?

a) Other peopleb) Ourselvesc) Tasksd) Nowhere

4. Which type of deadline increases focus?

a) Longb) Extended c) Shortd) Impossible


5. How should you begin a goal?

a) Smallb) Large c) Averaged) It does not matter

6. What are you less likely to do if you know that you can complete a task?

a) Complete itb) Procrastinatec) Begin itd) Become creative


7. Where should you begin a project?

a) Middleb) Endc) Beginningd) Where you can complete a step

8. What is important in determining if you should work on a project out of order?

a) You need to save timeb) You work in a groupc) You work aloned) Steps can be tied together


9. Who advised Jennifer?

a) Bossb) Friendc) Mentord) No one

10.What motivated her to avoid falling back into old habits?

a) Nothingb) Mentorc) Fear of failured) Success


1. Which type of nonessential items can you keep?

a) Inspirationalb) Usefulc) Interestingd) None

Removing clutter requires the removal of nonessential items. Inspirational items may remain.

2. What needs to be done before bringing new items to a clutter free environment?

a) Nothingb) You cannot bring anything new inc) Remove an itemd) Find a place

New items must have a place before they are brought to a clutter free environment. This ensures that there is not a buildup of clutter.


3. Where do the limitations come from that lead to procrastination?

a) Other peopleb) Ourselvesc) Tasksd) Nowhere

We often impose limits on ourselves. These limitations lead to procrastination.

4. Which type of deadline increases focus?

a) Longb) Extended c) Shortd) Impossible

Short deadlines can increase adrenaline and improve focus. Impossible deadlines that are too short will result in a lack of focus.


5. How should you begin a goal?

a) Smallb) Large c) Averaged) It does not matter

It is important to begin with small goals. You can build on these as time goes by.

6. What are you less likely to do if you know that you can complete a task?

a) Complete itb) Procrastinatec) Begin itd) Become creative

Procrastination is less likely when people know that they can reach a goal. They are more likely to begin and complete tasks.


7. Where should you begin a project?

a) Middleb) Endc) Beginningd) Where you can complete a step

It is not necessary to start at the beginning of a project. Begin with steps that you can complete.

8. What is important in determining if you should work on a project out of order?

a) You need to save timeb) You work in a groupc) You work aloned) Steps can be tied together

It is possible to work on steps out of order if they can come together correctly.


9. Who advised Jennifer?

a) Bossb) Friendc) Mentord) No one

Jennifer got advice from her mentor. The mentor suggested that Jennifer remove all clutter from her workspace

10.What motivated her to avoid falling back into old habits?

a) Nothingb) Mentorc) Fear of failured) Success

Jennifer saw success from her actions. This motivated her to continue her actions and avoid clutter.

Module Five: Improving Your Creative Mindset (I)

Developing a creative mindset takes time and work. Developing creativity requires flexibility and the ability to move away from rigid thought patterns than blind us from taking advantage of new ways to improve creativity.

Negativity is the enemy of creativity.

David Lynch

Open Mind

Belief system

Introspection

Other points of view

Do Not Judge

Appreciate different points

Watch for personal bias

Empower your creativity

Positive MindsetCount your blessings

Use positive affirmations

Confront negative thoughts

Ask Why?

Questioning will increase

creativity

Find different opinions

Case Study

Marjorie was extremely opinionated

She had no problem letting people know when they were wrong

She continued to alienate the people around her

Her department eventually lagged behind the others

Module Five: Review Questions

1. What requires keeping an open mind?

a) Creativityb) Intelligencec) Educationd) Everything

2. Being open-minded does Not require ______.

a) Listening b) Changing beliefsc) Avoiding emotional responsesd) Admit to not knowing everything


3. What encourages people to make snap judgments?

a) Social networksb) Digital informationc) Mediad) Nothing

4. Different points of view should be ______.

a) Avoidedb) Shunnedc) Met with suspiciond) Appreciated


5. How should you handle negative thoughts?

a) Confront themb) Ignore themc) Avoid themd) Do not have them

6. What is an action to help stay positive?

a) Ignore negativityb) Make friendc) List blessingsd) Meet new people


7. What should we do when faced with new ideas?

a) Questionb) Acceptc) Avoidd) Change

8. What does questioning increase?

a) Information b) Conversationsc) Creativityd) Dialogue


9. How did she view her boss?

a) Competentb) Irrationalc) Incompetentd) Rational

10.What did her department lack?

a) Unityb) Uniformityc) Interestd) Creativity


1. What requires keeping an open mind?

a) Creativityb) Intelligencec) Educationd) Everything

Keeping an open mind exposes people to new ideas. This helps improve creativity.

2. Being open-minded does Not require ______.

a) Listening b) Changing beliefsc) Avoiding emotional responsesd) Admit to not knowing everything

Being open-minded does not require changing beliefs. It does require listening, being reasonable, and admitting you could be wrong.


3. What encourages people to make snap judgments?

a) Social networksb) Digital informationc) Mediad) Nothing

People are naturally judgmental. The speed of digital information encourages people to make snap judgments.

4. Different points of view should be ______.

a) Avoidedb) Shunnedc) Met with suspiciond) Appreciated

It is important to refrain from passing judgment on different points of view. They should be appreciated because they encourage creativity.


5. How should you handle negative thoughts?

a) Confront themb) Ignore themc) Avoid themd) Do not have them

Negative thoughts cannot be ignored. It is important to confront them with the truth to maintain a positive outlook.

6. What is an action to help stay positive?

a) Ignore negativityb) Make friendc) List blessingsd) Meet new people

There are different steps that people can take to stay positive. Making a list of what to be thankful for each day is activity.


7. What should we do when faced with new ideas?

a) Questionb) Acceptc) Avoidd) Change

We should question everything. New thoughts or ideas do not need to be accepted or rejected out of bias.

8. What does questioning increase?

a) Information b) Conversationsc) Creativityd) Dialogue

Questioning engages the mind and requires thinking. It will actually increase creativity.


9. How did she view her boss?

a) Competentb) Irrationalc) Incompetentd) Rational

Marjorie believed that her boss was emotional and irrational. She used this reasoning to ignore his advice.

10. What did her department lack?

a) Unityb) Uniformityc) Interestd) Creativity

Marjorie’s department all had similar views. This impeded their creativity, which her employer pointed out.

Module Six: Improving Your Creative Mindset (II)

The ability to think creatively and change your mindset requires you to make discoveries and associations. It is necessary to question, be self-aware, and develop confidence in order to increase your creative thought.

Creativity is the soul of the true scholar.

Nnamdi Azikiwe

Make Associations

Natural to make associations

Tie unrelated topics together

Build creativity with time

Keep a Journal

Choose the right time

Choose the spot

Be comfortable

Question Assumptions

What is the assumption?

What if it not true?

Affect my decision-making?

Creative Confidence

Play to your strengths

Stay positive

Create what speaks to you

Case Study

Ginny had tried journaling but gave up after a few weeks

She decided to give it one last try and downloaded an app to help

Her new self-awareness helped her improver her creativity

Her company was using some of her creative ideas

Module Six: Review Questions

1. Making which type of associations will increase creativity?

a) Unusualb) Normalc) Associatived) Disassociate

2. What tool is used to create unusual associations?

a) Free associationb) Forced associationc) Creative writingd) None of the above


3. What is the main reason why people fail in journaling?

a) Make it too simpleb) Lack of interestc) Make it complexd) None of the above

4. What should be remembered in journaling?

a) Journals should be editedb) Journals require rewritingc) It needs to be reviewedd) It does not need to be perfect


5. Assumptions are based on which of the following?

a) Interest b) Personal experiencec) Factsd) Opinion

6. What should you do when encountering assumptions?

a) Accept themb) Ignore themc) Change themd) Question them


7. What often cost confidence?

a) Self-comparisonb) Self-promotionc) Creativityd) Procrastination

8. What should guide creative confidence?

a) Ignore themb) Ask people to resubmit themc) Inspirationd) Answer them


9. What did Ginny use to help her journal?

a) Appb) Computerc) Bookd) Accountability partner

10.How much did revenue increase?

a) 6%b) 10%c) 15%d) 12%


1. Making which type of associations will increase creativity?

a) Unusualb) Normalc) Associatived) Disassociate

Everyone makes associations naturally. Unusual associations will help increase creativity.

2. What tool is used to create unusual associations?

a) Free associationb) Forced associationc) Creative writingd) None of the above

Forced association is a method of brainstorming. It forces you to develop unusual associations.


3. What is the main reason why people fail in journaling?

a) Make it too simpleb) Lack of interestc) Make it complexd) None of the above

People who fail in journaling make it too complicated. A simple process will help you succeed in journaling.

4. What should be remembered in journaling?

a) Journals should be editedb) Journals require rewritingc) It needs to be reviewedd) It does not need to be perfect

Journaling should be a comfortable experience. It does not have to be perfectly written or edited to be useful.


5. Assumptions are based on which of the following?

a) Interest b) Personal experiencec) Factsd) Opinion

People make assumptions based on personal experience, not facts. This is why assumptions are not always accurate.

6. What should you do when encountering assumptions?

a) Accept themb) Ignore themc) Change themd) Question them

Assumptions affect creativity. Questioning them when they are encountered will help show the truth.


7. What often cost confidence?

a) Self-comparisonb) Self-promotionc) Creativityd) Procrastination

Confidence is essential to creativity. Unfortunately, self-comparison is common, which harms self-confidence.

8. What should guide creative confidence?

a) Ignore themb) Ask people to resubmit themc) Inspirationd) Answer them

Creative confidence needs to be guided by inspiration. This helps motivate creative action.


9. What did Ginny use to help her journal?

a) Appb) Computerc) Bookd) Accountability partner

Ginny downloaded an app for journaling. She preferred this tool to traditional methods of journaling.

10. How much did revenue increase?

a) 6%b) 10%c) 15%d) 12%

After 6 months of journaling, the company used Ginny’s ideas. Revenue increased by 15%.

Module Seven: Curiosity

Curiosity is a trait that people typically associate with children. Curiosity, however, is a trait that we should all cultivate. A lack of curiosity is associated with depression. People who engage and cultivate curiosity are happier and more creative than those who do not.

It is a miracle that curiosity survives formal education.

Albert Einstein

Spark Your Curiosity

Choose tasks related to curiosity

Assign points

Assign rewards

Keep score

Curiosity is the Engine of Creativity

Ask questions regularly Learn something new every day

Communicate with people

Engage

Get to know people

Connect over shared passions and ideas

Share your expertise

Ask Open-Ended Questions

Explores the topic

Essay type question

No specific answer

Case Study

Heath always tried to reach conclusions as quickly as possible

He became frustrated with a new project

A friend suggested that increasing his curiosity and working with others might help

The project ended better than he expected it to be

Module Seven: Review Questions

1. Satisfying curiosity is an example of _______.

a) Motivationb) Intrinsic rewardc) Gamificationd) Extrinsic reward

2. Which reward system is based on game theory?



3. Satisfying curiosity requires _____.

a) Mental stimulationb) Artc) Inspirationd) Understanding

4. How often should you learn something new?

a) Weeklyb) Monthlyc) When you have the timed) Daily


5. What is necessary to mental health and creativity?

a) Solitudeb) Homepagec) Human interactiond) None of the above

6. Connect with people over ______.

a) Dislikesb) Shared passionsc) Creativityd) Activities


7. What type of question encourages curiosity and creativity?

a) Open-endedb) Closedc) All d) None

8. What is an example of an open-ended question?

a) Where did you find it?b) Why do you like this?c) How long have you known this?d) What is it?


9. What type of thinking did Heath avoid?

a) Abstractb) Concrete c) Analyticald) Convergent

10.How did he approach the problem?

a) Work aloneb) Find introspectionc) Create a support groupd) Talk to a friend


1. Satisfying curiosity is an example of _______.


Rewards will improve curiosity. Satisfaction is an internal or intrinsic reward.

2. Which reward system is based on game theory?


Gamification is a method of extrinsic motivation. It is based on gaming theory and rewards curiosity.


3. Satisfying curiosity requires _____.

a) Mental stimulationb) Artc) Inspirationd) Understanding

All of the answers help improve creativity. Satisfying curiosity requires mental stimulation.

4. How often should you learn something new?

a) Weeklyb) Monthlyc) When you have the timed) Daily

Learning something new sparks interest and curiosity. It should be done daily.


5. What is necessary to mental health and creativity?

a) Solitudeb) Homepagec) Human interactiond) None of the above

Human interaction is important for physical and mental health. It can help build creativity.

6. Connect with people over ______.

a) Dislikesb) Shared passionsc) Creativityd) Activities

Engaging with people is easier when you share something. Shared passion is the best way to engage with other people.


7. What type of question encourages curiosity and creativity?

a) Open-endedb) Closedc) All d) None

Open-ended questions explore topics. They are best for encouraging curiosity and creativity.

8. What is an example of an open-ended question?

a) Where did you find it?b) Why do you like this?c) How long have you known this?d) What is it?

The second answer is an open-ended question. The other answers are closed because they ask for specific answers.


9. What type of thinking did Heath avoid?

a) Abstractb) Concrete c) Analyticald) Convergent

Heath preferred concrete thinking. He did not like abstract thought, which means he will most likely avoid abstract thought.

10. How did he approach the problem?

a) Work aloneb) Find introspectionc) Create a support groupd) Talk to a friend

Heath created a support group to address the problem. A friend gave him the advice to do so.

Module Eight: Take Risks

There is no certain success when it comes to creativity. Every creative endeavor requires taking a risk. Developing creativity demands that you face your fears and act with confidence. Learning to accept yourself and ignore harmful criticism will give you the strength and confidence that you need to take the risks that creativity demands.

Creativity takes courage.

Henri Matisse

Be ConfidentTrust yourself

Leave your comfort zone

Accept praise

Scared to Fail?

Embrace mistakes

Say yes to opportunities

Accept advice and help

Fake It Till You Make It

Dress the part

Relax and smile

Be aware of your body and

posture

Use the appropriate vocabulary

Afraid to Be Judged

Assess how judgmental you are

Look at yourself honestly

Value yourself

Case Study

Theresa was an accomplished dancer, but she never performed for people

Afraid of making a mistake again, she chose to only dance in private

One day, a coworker suggested that she perform in a televised talent show

She decided to take a chance and perform again

Module Eight: Review Questions

1. What does a lack of confidence cause?

a) Creativityb) Curiosityc) Engagementd) Self-doubt

2. Accepting praise does not hinder _____.

a) Arrogance b) Humilityc) Self-doubtd) Engagement


3. What is true of failure?

a) It can be avoidedb) It is destructivec) It is inevitable d) Nothing

4. What is the healthy way to view failure?

a) Learning opportunityb) Personal flawc) The end of a careerd) None of the above


5. What does faking it till you make it create?

a) Self-fulfilling prophecyb) Mental clarityc) Nothingd) Curiosity

6. What will Not increase self-confidence?

a) Clothingb) Focusc) Postured) Smiling


7. Value comes from _____.

a) Judgmentb) Self-worthc) Criticismd) All of the above

8. What will reduce you fear of judgment?

a) Nothingb) Self-comparisonc) Judgmentd) Stop judging others


9. What was Theresa’s mistake?

a) Lack of talentb) Fall c) Lack of creativityd) There was none

10.How did fear change Theresa’s life?

a) It did notb) Kept her from her desired professionc) Made her avoid successd) It kept her from making friends


1. What does a lack of confidence cause?

a) Creativityb) Curiosityc) Engagementd) Self-doubt

A lack of confidence causes self-doubt. This will hinder creativity and development.

2. Accepting praise does not hinder _____.

a) Arrogance b) Humilityc) Self-doubtd) Engagement

Accepting praise is necessary to create confidence. Refusing to accept praise is not humility.


3. What is true of failure?

a) It can be avoidedb) It is destructivec) It is inevitable d) Nothing

Failure is inevitable. Fearing failure will inhibit growth but not decrease the risk of failure.

4. What is the healthy way to view failure?

a) Learning opportunityb) Personal flawc) The end of a careerd) None of the above

Failure is inevitable, but it is not to be feared. Every failure should be treated as a learning opportunity.


5. What does faking it till you make it create?

a) Self-fulfilling prophecyb) Mental clarityc) Nothingd) Curiosity

Faking confidence will create confidence. Believing something creates a self-fulfilling prophecy.

6. What will Not increase self-confidence?

a) Clothingb) Focusc) Postured) Smiling

Focus may or may not increase self-confidence, depending on the focus. The other answers will help fake confidence.


7. Value comes from _____.

a) Judgmentb) Self-worthc) Criticismd) All of the above

Personal value should come from self-worth. It should not be based on the judgment of other people.

8. What will reduce you fear of judgment?

a) Nothingb) Self-comparisonc) Judgmentd) Stop judging others

People who judge others are more likely to fear judgment. Stopping judgment will create better perspective.


9. What was Theresa’s mistake?

a) Lack of talentb) Fall c) Lack of creativityd) There was none

Theresa fell, and was humiliated. This caused her to fear the judgment of others and stop dancing.

10. How did fear change Theresa’s life?

a) It did notb) Kept her from her desired professionc) Made her avoid successd) It kept her from making friends

Theresa refused to dance in public. This kept her from becoming a professional dancer and doing what she loved.

Module Nine: Think Like a Child

Children are naturally creative. Unfortunately, we lose some of this creativity as we grow up. We lose our curiosity and forget to daydream and play. When we forget to have fun, we forget to be creative. By remembering how to think like a child, we activate our creativity.

The worst enemy of creativity is ‘good’ sense.

Pablo Picasso

Daydream

It is natural

Useful tool that the mind needs

They inspire us

Be Curious

Not afraid to ask question

Do not be discouraged

Activate your curiosity

Play Games

Useful motivators

Sharpens your mind

Inspires

Experiment

Step out of safe zone

Try new things

Expand horizons

Case Study

Darla was a bookkeeper who never varied from her routine

Darla was uncomfortable with the idea of change

For her New Year’s resolution, she decided to try something new

After a few weeks, she discovered that she enjoyed dancing

Module Nine: Review Questions

1. What is a misconception about daydreaming?

a) It is a waste of timeb) Everyone daydreamsc) Daydreams are usefuld) They connect with goals and desires

2. What is the longest time you should daydream while taking a break?

a) 10 minutesb) 5 minutesc) 15 minutesd) It does not matter


3. We should question like _______.

a) Academics b) Ourselvesc) Followersd) Children

4. What do children believe about the questions they ask?

a) The answers cannot be foundb) They can find the answersc) The answers are hidden from themd) All of the above


5. Games should be part of ____.

a) Daily routinesb) Weekly routinesc) Scheduled fund) All of the above

6. What type of games should be tried?

a) Computerb) Puzzlec) Social d) Variety


7. How should experiences be greeted?

a) With a yesb) With a noc) With hesitationd) They should not be

8. What do adults create with routines?

a) Risks b) Creativity c) Rewards d) Comfort zones


9. How did Darla take her first risk?

a) New jobb) Dance classc) New friendsd) All of the above

10.What opportunity came as a result of her initial risk?



1. What is a misconception about daydreaming?

a) It is a waste of timeb) Everyone daydreamsc) Daydreams are usefuld) They connect with goals and desires

Many people are taught that daydreaming is a waste of time. This is a misconception because daydreaming is very useful.

2. What is the longest time you should daydream while taking a break?

a) 10 minutesb) 5 minutesc) 15 minutesd) It does not matter

Daydreaming should be done in short bursts. The maximum amount of time you should spend daydreaming is 15 minutes.


3. We should question like _______.

a) Academics b) Ourselvesc) Followersd) Children

Children are curious and constantly ask questions. We should ask questions like children do.

4. What do children believe about the questions they ask?

a) The answers cannot be foundb) They can find the answersc) The answers are hidden from themd) All of the above

Children ask questions to find answers. They believe that the answers to their questions can be found.


5. Games should be part of ____.

a) Daily routinesb) Weekly routinesc) Scheduled fund) All of the above

Games increase creativity and keep our minds sharp. They should be included in daily routines for the best effect.

6. What type of games should be tried?

a) Computerb) Puzzlec) Social d) Variety

Each game has its own strengths and benefits. It is important to play a variety of different games to get the most benefit and decide what you enjoy.


7. How should experiences be greeted?

a) With a yesb) With a noc) With hesitationd) They should not be

New experiences move beyond comfort zones. They should be embraced and told yes.

8. What do adults create with routines?

a) Risks b) Creativity c) Rewards d) Comfort zones

Adults create routines and safe, comfort zones. These create boredom and stifle creativity.


9. How did Darla take her first risk?


Darla decided to deviate from her routine by taking a dance class. This was her first risk.

10. What opportunity came as a result of her initial risk?


Darla made friends at her class. One of them had an open position that appealed to her. The opportunity came from her taking a risk.

Module Ten: Environmental Factors

The environment you work in affects your creativity. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to control of your environment and develop creativity. Make your work area inspiring, go to locations that increase creativity and take care of yourself to increase your creative mindset.

I found that when I built my own place and just shut the door, creativity was endless.

Billy Sherwood

Work Area

Add small touches

Emotional items

Additional Environments

Atmosphere that you find inspiring

Coffee shop

Soak up some inspiration

Get Enough Sleep

Variables

Light Color

Smell Sound

Music People

Case Study

Brian is known as a creative problem solver

He has not been able to focus well lately

He keeps hitting a wall trying to choose the direction in which to take the company

His mentor who tells him to sleep on the decision

Module Ten: Review Questions

1. What should your work area reflect?

a) Youb) The jobc) The companyd) Nothing

2. What should be avoided when bringing inspiring items to a work area?

a) Whimsyb) Dark colorsc) Clutterd) Nothing


3. What type of atmosphere do additional environments provide?

a) Dramaticb) Anyc) Grittyd) Funny

4. Where should you look for additional environments?

a) Onlineb) Nationwidec) In the stated) Local city


5. What is necessary for dreaming?

a) Creativityb) REM sleepc) Sleep cycled) Nothing

6. What is not conducive to sleep?

a) Darknessb) Routinec) Smartphonesd) Schedule


7. How should you choose variables?

a) Experimentb) Memoryc) You do notd) All of the above

8. Variables you choose should make you feel _____.

a) Anxiousb) Interestedc) Curiousd) Comfortable


9. What decision is Brian trying to make?

a) Direction for companyb) Company changesc) Hiring decisions d) None

10.What advice did the mentor give?

a) Make a listb) Sleepc) Visualized) Brainstorm


1. What should your work area reflect?

a) Youb) The jobc) The companyd) Nothing

Your work area should be inspiring. It needs to reflect you and your passions.

2. What should be avoided when bringing inspiring items to a work area?

a) Whimsyb) Dark colorsc) Clutterd) Nothing

Inspirational items should be in the work area. They are not an excuse to bring in more clutter.


3. What type of atmosphere do additional environments provide?

a) Dramaticb) Anyc) Grittyd) Funny

Additional environments can provide any type of atmosphere you need. They are inspiring to you.

4. Where should you look for additional environments?

a) Onlineb) Nationwidec) In the stated) Local city

Additional environments need to be accessible. You should look locally to find them.


5. What is necessary for dreaming?

a) Creativityb) REM sleepc) Sleep cycled) Nothing

REM sleep is part of the sleep cycle. REM sleep is necessary to dreams.

6. What is not conducive to sleep?

a) Darknessb) Routinec) Smartphonesd) Schedule

Smartphone screens will inhibit sleep. The other answers are conducive for sleep.


7. How should you choose variables?

a) Experimentb) Memoryc) You do notd) All of the above

Variables affect work environments. It is necessary to experiment with different variables to know which one will be effective for you.

8. Variables you choose should make you feel _____.

a) Anxiousb) Interestedc) Curiousd) Comfortable

Your environment should make you feel safe and comfortable. The variable will contribute to this environment.


9. What decision is Brian trying to make?

a) Direction for companyb) Company changesc) Hiring decisions d) None

Brian is trying to decide which direction to take his company. He keeps hitting a wall with this decision.

10. What advice did the mentor give?

a) Make a listb) Sleepc) Visualized) Brainstorm

Brian was awake for days trying to decide. His mentor advised him to sleep on the decision before making it.

Module Eleven: Individual Brainstorming

Individual brainstorming can be effective in your personal or business life. Following the tips in this module will help improve brainstorming and divergent thinking to increase creativity.

If you wish to advance into the infinite, explore the finite in every direction.

Johann Wolfgang von

Goethe

Generate A Lot of IdeasFocus on the problem

Limit distractions

Mind Mapping

After ideas have been generated

Organize informationConnect ideas to the main

concepts

Visualization

Choose an idea or solution

Relax

Visualize

Organize and Bring Ideas Together

Step away from the brainstorming

Consider the best way to organize

Can you combine ideas?

Case Study

Wendell hated brainstorming

Wendell met with his mentor who taught him the art of free writing

It took practice, but he was able to stop self-editing

He began to develop truly unique ideas in his brainstorming

Module Eleven: Review Questions

1. What is the goal of brainstorming ideas?

a) Quantityb) Qualityc) Interestd) Curiosity

2. What activity aids in brainstorming quantity?

a) Editingb) Free writingc) Researchd) Word association


3. What is the first step to mapping?

a) Create linksb) Identify connectionsc) Identify main ideasd) None of the above

4. When can new ideas be added to the map?

a) They cannot beb) At the beginning of the mapc) At the end of the mapd) Any time


5. Where should visualization take place?

a) Anywhereb) Outsidec) In the darkd) Where it is relaxing

6. When should you envision ideas being implemented?

a) Pastb) Presentc) Future d) It does not matter


7. What should be done before organizing ideas?

a) Take a breakb) Create prioritiesc) Get adviced) None of the above

8. When is your list of ideas finished?

a) After the organization b) Before the next brainstorming sessionc) Neverd) At the end of the day


9. What did Wendell dislike?

a) Brainstormingb) Creatingc) Organizingd) Mapping

10.What technique helped Wendell brainstorm effectively?

a) None b) Free writingc) Mappingd) Visualization


1. What is the goal of brainstorming ideas?

a) Quantityb) Qualityc) Interestd) Curiosity

The goal is to create a large quantity of ideas. Focus on quality will limit the ideas generated.

2. What activity aids in brainstorming quantity?

a) Editingb) Free writingc) Researchd) Word association

Free writing is a creative writing activity. It will aid in brainstorming activity.


3. What is the first step to mapping?

a) Create linksb) Identify connectionsc) Identify main ideasd) None of the above

The first step to mapping is providing the main ideas. The other concepts are connected to the main ideas in the map.

4. When can new ideas be added to the map?

a) They cannot beb) At the beginning of the mapc) At the end of the mapd) Any time

New ideas can be added to the map at any time. There is no reason to limit new ideas.


5. Where should visualization take place?

a) Anywhereb) Outsidec) In the darkd) Where it is relaxing

Visualization requires relaxation. It can take place anywhere as long as the location is relaxing.

6. When should you envision ideas being implemented?

a) Pastb) Presentc) Future d) It does not matter

Different ideas need to be visualized. They should be visualized as though they have been implemented and are operating in the present.


7. What should be done before organizing ideas?

a) Take a breakb) Create prioritiesc) Get adviced) None of the above

Before organizing ideas, you should step away, maybe even sleep on the idea. This allows you to refocus before you make your decisions.

8. When is your list of ideas finished?

a) After the organization b) Before the next brainstorming sessionc) Neverd) At the end of the day

You should not limit your ideas. Continue to add to them regularly.


9. What did Wendell dislike?

a) Brainstormingb) Creatingc) Organizingd) Mapping

Wendell disliked brainstorming. He was not comfortable with it and was not productive.

10. What technique helped Wendell brainstorm effectively?

a) None b) Free writingc) Mappingd) Visualization

Wendell’s mentor taught him how to free write. This improved his brainstorming ability.

Module Twelve: Wrapping Up

Although this workshop is coming to a close, we hope that your journey to improve your Creativity skills is just beginning. Please take a moment to review and update your action plan. This will be a key tool to guide your progress in the days, weeks, months, and years to come. We wish you the best of luck on the rest of your travels!

If you did not look after today’s business, you might as well forget about tomorrow.

Isaac Mophatlane

Words from the Wise

Sylvia Plath

• The worst enemy to creativity is self-doubt.

Edward de Bono

• It is better to have enough ideas for some of them to be wrong, than to be always right by having no ideas at all.

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