In neuroscience, creativity is defined as the ability to produce original and relevant ideas in each context to solve a problem or improve a situation.

Creativity relies mainly on two brain networks: the “default network”, when our brain is not actively engaged in a task, we daydream and spontaneously generate ideas by association; and the “executive network”, which evaluates ideas and selects those that are relevant.

To sum up, according to Steve Jobs, “creativity is simply about connecting things”, and after a while this seems obvious.

How does the creative process unfold in our brain?

According to Graham Wallas’ model, there are 4 stages:

  • Preparation: this is the phase during which we immerse ourselves in the subject, reading, observing, asking questions to understand the problem or challenge at hand
  • Incubation: once we’ve accumulated enough information, we stop consciously working on the problem. During this phase, the brain continues to process information in the background, often without our being aware of it. This is a period of maturation of ideas, when new connections can be formed
  • Illumination: this is the “eureka!” moment, when the creative idea suddenly emerges. Illumination usually occurs unexpectedly, often after a period of relaxation or activity unrelated to the problem
  • Verification: this phase involves a critical review of the idea to make it applicable in a real-life context. It will be evaluated, tested, refined and perhaps even rejected, so that the cycle can be repeated if necessary.

Creativity is not a linear process and may involve going back and forth between these stages to arrive at a creative solution.

 

What factors can positively influence creativity?

  • Positive emotions such as joy or excitement can enhance creativity
  • A wide range of knowledge and experience provides more material for creativity and enables unexpected connections to be made
  • An open attitude and natural curiosity are conducive to creativity. A curious mindset drives individuals to explore and experiment
  • The physical environment can stimulate creativity, such as a quiet place or bright colors
  • Access to technology or tools enables creative ideas to be explored and realized.

 

How to activate your creative power?

Whether you think you’re creative at heart or not, creativity is a skill you can always develop:

  • Practice meditation, like Steve Jobs who meditated to sharpen his ability to innovate
  • Explore new fields, like Elon Musk who draws inspiration from a variety of disciplines
  • Regularly practice divergent thinking, which involves generating the most original ideas in the shortest possible time. Jeff Bezos encourages his teams to ask unlikely questions to explore unconventional scenarios
  • Change your surroundings like Mark Zuckerberg, who uses “walking meetings” to clear his head and think more clearly
  • Participate in creativity workshops offered by your company to practice generating new ideas.

What small changes can you make today to activate your creative power?

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Léna AKA

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