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Creativity is not exclusive to certain people; it can be acquired and enhanced through practice, continuous learning, and the development of specific skills critical to its growth.
Creativity is a multifaceted term with various profound meanings and connotations. Linguistically, it refers to innovation and creating something unsurpassed. Terminologically, it is the ability to invent and create something new that did not previously exist– whether solving issues, inventing new tools and devices, or achieving goals in distinctive and unique ways.
In essence, creativity embodies foresight and the ability to view things from different perspectives. Creative individuals excel at solving problems, developing beneficial ideas and alternatives, and turning them into reality to foster development and progress, thereby enhancing the quality of life.
Creativity plays an important role when confronted with new challenges and unfamiliar questions. It drives the search for unconventional solutions and answers, stimulates imagination, and encourages distinctive thinking, often called “innovation” or “creative thinking.” The value of creativity depends on how fundamentally it improves existing things or creates new ones that lead to significant advancements and address previously unmet needs.
Recognising or even anticipating problems before they occur is the first step to generating creative ideas and innovative solutions. Attentive observation is vital for this process. It can be honed by focusing on the present moment, paying attention to the small details of one’s surroundings, including shapes, colours, and sounds, and asking numerous questions along the way. Practising meditation and mindfulness activities daily can also help enhance observational skills.
Effective problem-solving begins with analytical thinking, brainstorming, asking many questions, exploring different perspectives, and gathering information from various sources. It also entails breaking down complex information into smaller pieces, analysing them carefully, understanding their relationships, and connecting thoughts to develop innovative solutions and new ideas.
Mind maps are excellent tools for visually analysing and organising ideas, facilitating understanding, and generating innovative solutions.
The value of creative ideas and solutions depends on the ability to communicate and deliver them effectively so that they can be optimised, developed, and turned into reality. Effective communication involves using simple and direct language that is easily understood and presenting ideas in an organised and coherent manner, whether orally or in writing.
It also requires active listening, showing genuine interest in others’ viewpoints, and asking questions to understand ideas and perspectives better. This, in turn, enriches discussions, promotes idea sharing, and leads to better outcomes.
Open-mindedness involves accepting new ideas and experiences without preconceived biases or strong attachments to personal opinions. It encompasses accepting differences, embracing diversity of ideas and cultures, and recognising everyone’s different perspectives. This openness makes adapting quickly to different situations and developing creative ideas and new problem-solving methods easier.
Additionally, open-mindedness allows for the free exchange of innovative ideas without fear of criticism. It encourages flexibility in changing behaviours and beliefs based on new evidence and different experiences to achieve better outcomes.
Acquiring and improving openness can be achieved through effective listening and expanding horizons by taking on new challenges and adventures, such as travelling to different places and learning about other cultures. It can also be achieved by stepping out of the comfort zone, embracing mistakes as learning opportunities, and gaining valuable experiences.
The United Arab Emirates fully understands the importance of creativity and innovation in driving sustainable development and progress. To this end, it has implemented various national initiatives and strategies to consolidate a culture of creativity and innovation and foster a supportive and motivating environment.
Among these strategies is the National Strategy for Advanced Innovation, adopted in 2018. This strategy aims to reinforce the UAE’s position as one of the world’s leading innovators. It encourages creativity, thoughtful risk-taking, and the search for creative, forward-looking solutions that align with the themes and objectives of the UAE Centennial 2071.
Another notable initiative is the National Grant Program for Culture and Creativity, launched by the UAE Ministry of Culture and Youth. This program is designed to support creative professionals in the UAE across seven main areas: writing and publishing, cultural heritage, music, performing arts and theatre, film and television, visual arts and design, and video games.
In conclusion, creativity is a journey that requires great self-confidence, a strong belief in one’s abilities, and sufficient time to develop creative skills. It also necessitates learning effective methods and strategies for analysing and organising ideas, such as brainstorming and mind mapping.
On the other hand, it is equally essential to avoid self-criticism and negative thinking, embrace new beginnings without fear, accept failures when they occur, and perceive them as opportunities to learn, develop, and gain new experiences.
References
[1] u.ae, Innovation and Creative Thinking Strategy
[2] indeed.com, Useful Creative Thinking Skills: Definition and Examples
[3] betterup.com, How to improve your creative skills for effective problem-solving
[4] verywellmind.com, How to Boost Creativity
[5] u.ae, National Program for Culture and Creativity Grants
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