Eight Myths About Creativity and Innovation
Myth: Some Folks Have a Creative Gene, and Some Folks Don’t
Reality: Creativity isn’t a gift bestowed upon the fortunate few. Everyone is capable of contributing to a good idea.
Myth: If Innovation isn’t Happening, Just Wait for a “Eureka!” Moment
Realty: Sorry, but winning concepts are built through hard work over time.
Myth: You Can Motivate Employees to Think Inventively Through Various “Perks” and Rewards
Reality: Extrinsic tools generally do not produce impactful thinking.
Myth: Brainstorming Sessions Always Generate Great Ideas
Reality: While brainstorming has its place, especially for collaboration, it’s unrealistic to think that you can come up with something novel during one 60-minute group session.
Myth: Dazzling Creativity Only Happens When Teams are Unleashed to Pursue It
Reality: All innovative initiatives must be checked by reasonable constraints, such as deadlines, market realities and stakeholder expectations.
Myth: You Have to Bring in Experts to Nail a Breakthrough
Reality: No, it’s more effective to gain from the insights of those with a genuine connection to a strategic need, as opposed to a self-designated expert whom you pay to whip up a flimsy theory.
Myth: All Great Concepts Are Original Thoughts
Reality: They’re rarely exclusively unique to themselves. Remember that the Beatles were heavily influenced by the Beach Boys’ Pet Sounds while recording Sgt. Pepper.
Myth: Fabulous Creations are Instantly Recognized as Such
Reality: Actually, they’re rarely celebrated at first. Which means your organization needs to give them time and support to gain traction.
