Inside the Mind of a Creative

Co-Author: Grace Arana

One thing about creativity is it resents routine. A bright idea doesn’t just present itself on a day-to-day basis, whenever it is needed or asked for. So, as a Digital Marketer, it is often a challenge for me and my team to immediately produce results with the assurance that each one of our intellectual offspring will be a big hit to its targets.

When people think of creativity, they often picture vibrant visuals, stunning animations, and impressive artwork. During brainstorming sessions, clients might suggest numerous ideas and expect immediate results, not realizing the complexity involved in the creative process. Creativity is frequently misunderstood and undervalued, with the mistaken belief that it should come effortlessly. This can put undue pressure on creative professionals, who may be unfairly labeled as lazy or unprofessional if they don’t deliver quickly.

In reality, creativity is not something that can be easily summoned out of a person. Contrary to what most people has been made to believe, ideas do not come as sudden as a blink of an eye. It requires deep research, thoughtful contemplation, and often inspiration from unexpected sources. Creative professionals frequently grapple with doubt and frustration, especially when they come up with great ideas outside of work hours but struggle to execute them later. Nothing is more frustrating than coming up with an idea while you're in the bathroom, or on your way home from work, or when you're trying to sleep at night, then not having anything to present or contribute during meetings. It is hard to grasp the whole idea of being creative.

Is it a skill or is it something that's inherent in a chosen few of us? Its hard to determine whether you have the capabilities or not, or if you will still have the ability to create as time passes.

As a leader, I believe in giving my team the freedom they need to spark their creativity. Creativity often flourishes when team members take breaks, listen to music, or engage in unrelated activities. While some might view this as unproductive, I know that allowing my team to work in ways that suit them best enhances their skills and effectiveness. Avoiding micromanagement and embracing innovative thinking are essential for fostering a creative environment.

I give them freedom to do what they want because I trust that they will comply at the end of the day. I hired them because I saw their potential and the promises they hold. Other employers might not see them as the typical ideal employee, but I see them as assets and I believe that the freedom I extend to them will significantly improve and develop their skills. I can't just tell them what to do. I am not all-knowing, and my way might not be the best way all the time. To create is to go beyond limitations and restrictions. This is what I am encouraging them to do, I want them to soar high and be the best that they can be in their chosen paths, and for that to happen, I do not allow myself to clip their wings when they start to grow.

Select the right people and give them room to get the job done. Don’t kill creativity, don’t micromanage. Let your people work for the company. Not just work according to a schedule or a routine, but to work in a way that makes them genuinely effective.

Steve Jobs once said:

“It doesn't make sense to hire smart people and then tell them what to do; we hire smart people so they can tell us what to do.”

I firmly believe in this approach. Embracing diverse perspectives and empowering team members to share their insights are crucial for driving innovation. Supporting creativity means going beyond limitations and encouraging exploration of new ideas.

How do you nurture creativity in your organization? Share your strategies and insights—I’d love to hear how you support creative thinking in your team.