The importance of creativity in business

There is plenty of evidence that being creative is good for the day job. Harvard Business School cites four clear reasons why we should foster creativity:

1.    Creativity accompanies innovation

Creativity is crucial to generate new ideas and find solutions to problems

2.    Creativity increases productivity

Creativity helps to combat stagnation 

3.    Creativity allows for adaptability

Creatively approaching challenges requires adaptability, and change is inevitable in every business setting

4.    Creativity’s necessary for growth

One of the main hindrances to growth is a fixed idea of how things should be done.

There are some simple ways to inject creativity into your business. Networking is certainly worthing considering. One of the lovely things about Lewes Pulse is the shear range of businesses that are represented, from professional legal and financial services, health and wellbeing, marketing and business support, to art, design and print.  It’s fascinating how often a conversation over breakfast can spark an idea or provide insight into another way of doing things.

Making sure your team has time to get together is a great way to foster creative thinking and collaboration. However big or small your team it’s good to put some regular time aside together.

Allowing space in the diary for personal and professional development is really important too. Taking time out, gaining new skills and some objectivity are all helpful ways to get the creative juices flowing.

In an effort to inject some creativity into their week Pulse members Debra Skeen and Loretta Harrison took an afternoon out to throw some pottery with fellow Pulse Member Alexander from Gillshaw Pottery. They thoroughly enjoyed their time, reflecting that it was good to focus on something entirely different and both felt hugely energised by the experience. "In an increasingly digital world, doing something creative, with your hands, is a great antidote. As well as being fun it was very rewarding to actually produce something too.” said Loretta, whose work is office-based. 

Creativity comes in many forms, but do give some thought to how you can inject some creativity into your business. Maybe see you at a Pulse breakfast meeting soon?