The Role Of Creativity In Innovation

Doing The Invisible Work

When it comes to creating our best work, we often forget the power of creativity and wonder. This is partially because staring out the window at your office is usually seen as a sign of being unproductive instead of a moment of self-reflection and inspiration.

But doing the invisible work of turning inward is the key to our most authentic selves. When we allow ourselves to ask the “whys” and the “what ifs,” we start to solve problems in ways we hadn’t thought of before.?

In addition, our ability to toggle between wonder and rigor is what allows us to operationalize and activate our problem-solving capabilities.?

Remembering The Mind-Body Connection

The mind-body connection is another important source of innovation.?

Too often we forget that the brain is attached to the spinal cord. But separating our mind from how we feel in our gut doesn’t aid us. In fact, it hurts our impact.

In a position of leadership, it’s important to remember that the mind-body connection is one of the most powerful places from which to pull ideas. And when you lead with creativity, you will attract and retain the best talent and flourish.

People want to be seen and heard. They want their creativity to flow out of them. They’re simply looking for opportunities to do so!

Embracing Solitude?

Solitude is a significant component of the innovation puzzle. However, we live in a society where it’s hard to take time away to reconnect with ourselves and our souls.?

Recently, I treated myself on a 2-night retreat to reignite my curiosity and reflect. It was such a positive experience that I’ve since made it a planned priority, scheduled in my calendar, once a quarter.?

It’s during this time that I do things like read fiction and wonder. And it’s also a way for me to ask deep questions and build my capacity to empathize with others.?

It doesn’t matter if you’re in sales, marketing, or another industry entirely, if you can’t empathize with your audience or with your partners, you can’t connect to them as deeply or impact them from a leadership perspective.?

Solitude, curiosity, and empathy are vital components of success.?

Having The Audacity To Wonder??

As you’re connecting to the creativity inside you, remember that wonder is about audacity, awe, and deep curiosity.?

When you allow your creative self to ask questions, that invisible work can become a powerful method of innovation.?

No matter what industry you’re in, tuning into that mind-body connection and embracing where your mind takes you is one of the most effective leadership styles there is.?

For a deeper dive into understanding how practicing wonder and rigor can change your life, snag your copy of my book, The Creativity Leap , to get started!

???Click here to get more of Natalie’s scintillating creativity tips!