Testing: Develop a Creative State of Mind

 Hi there!

Below is a link to my first prezi - (if you have not heard of it and do presentations, you might wanna click the link just to explore the site). Anyway, if you have time, please check it out - why?  Harnessing your creativity is essential to living more creatively.  A core belief in creative thinking is something called the Dynamic Balance - this is like yin and yang -- but here, you are balancing divergent and convergent thinking. Plus, I would love your  thoughts, so go on -> click that link!   I will be adding script soon, but please feel free to ask questions here or in an email.... your feedback is welcome.

Thanks and have a creative day!

PREZI link below :)

Develop a Creative State of Mind

Does Grassroots Creativity Education Need Nourishment?

Here’s a familiar scene for a budding creativity specialist. You’re at a party and small talk is the mainstay. Upon introducing yourself, your new acquaintance asks that time-honored question -- “So, what do you do for a living?” How do you respond? As a new creativity expert, I reply, “I’m in graduate school in Creative Studies.” At first, their quizzical stares intimidate me as I fumble for the words to explain myself. I begin with a simple definition that supports the field’s credibility, “It’s the psychology behind creative thinking or behavior.” The head tilt becomes a little less severe, but I can tell they still need more information. So then I say, “We do creative problem solving, or come up with ideas for innovation.” Usually they seem to vaguely understand by this point. However, there are times when all I can connect with them on is the term originated by Alex Obsorn – Brainstorming (1953).

Brainstorming, the well-known technique used in idea generation, is often mistaken for the act of creative problem solving. This is one of the many misconceptions regarding creativity. Another myth that hinders creative behavior is the belief that is reserved only for special people or endeavors. (Richards, 2007, p. 25). At the International Center for Studies in Creativity (ICSC) at Buffalo State College (BSC), myth busting is happening through awareness and a solid education. The department has instituted a fairly new vision: “Igniting creativity around the world: Facilitating the recognition of creative thinking as an essential life skill” (International Center for Studies in Creativity, n.d.). We have all been affected in various ways by the ongoing global changes. Now more than ever, the need for creativity combined with community is at an all-time high. Half a later and Osborn’s words still ring true, “…there is a crying need for more creative thinking” (1953, p. 5).

Background
Alex Osborn’s book, Applied Imagination (1953), brought the concept of creative thinking into the light and since then it has spawned a field of research that continues to be controversial. Due to the nature of the topic, it lends itself to being subjective and ambiguous, even in the eyes of its researchers. Many theories and models exist regarding the phenomena and it has had a long journey in gaining recognition and credibility among academics. Is it any wonder that one gets puzzling looks when trying to explain it to the average person? I have sat through many thought-provoking and insightful lectures regarding creativity. In the application of creative thinking, I’ve noticed that despite the importance stressed on creativity’s benefit in everyday living, much of the content is geared toward organizations, leadership and formal education, primarily the education of children. (Personal observation, 2010, 2011). This made me wonder if the outreach for creativity education was actually trickling down to a grassroots level. That is, has the average person been exposed to the basics of creativity and if yes, how well? Utilizing social media to solicit responses, I created a quick survey to further examine my questions.  

A Quick Creativity Survey
Upon reviewing the most common myths surrounding creativity, I posed eight simple yes or no questions, as well as one that was open-ended. It was entitled A Quick Creativity Survey and those who participated provided their answers anonymously. To my surprise, the reaction was incredible - - within approximately an hour, more than 50 responses had been collected and the numbers continued to rise. The sample group of consisted of 211 people. The survey indicated interesting results as seen in Figure 1. The most standout observation was that 98% of the respondents believe that creativity was important in daily life, and 75% were interested in learning more. Another misconception surfaced when 40% of those polled believed that Brainstorming and Creative Problem Solving (CPS) were the same thing. Similarly, 41% also thought creativity and innovation were the same -- despite the fact that 39% said they have had some education in creative studies. A limitation of my quick survey was that my populace was not thoroughly investigated. Therefore, generalizability cannot be established. A prime example of a question worth examining further regards creative studies education – what was learned and where was this education procured? More information would certainly affect the future results.

Fig. 1. A Quick Creativity Survey. Developed by Dana Calanan, 2011.  

Why Explain Creativity?
Explaining creativity is necessary for the acceptance of its use by an individual. Due to societal norms, creativity generally dissipates soon after childhood and most of us have experienced creativity as something frivolous and “artsy.” This alone is a reason to take the time to explain creativity to the layperson. They too can experience that, “it [creativity] is something we can all tap into, and it is possible that creativity has its greatest impact on a personal level” (Swahn & Svahn, 2008, p. 3).  

Public Creativity Education Outreach
From sitcoms to annual reports, the words: create, creativity, imagination and innovation and various forms of similar phrases are more and more seeping into the public’s consciousness. But are the theories or even the definitions behind these buzz words being fully understood? It appears that the terms are being used in ways that liken them to the latest fad or gadget. My research suggests that there is a need for some clarification. Despite the numerous sites dedicated to the encouragement of being creative, those geared toward teaching the fundamentals of creative behavior and thinking on a public level are hard to find. Until recently, BSC offered the only accredited Master’s program in the entire world. However, more academically based programs are beginning to surface elsewhere. As of 2010, there were 54 known curriculums worldwide (Yudess, p. 139). The World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) – a specialized United Nations agency that rewards creativity – now lists on their website -- www.wipo.int -- only eleven recognized programs in the world that offer Creativity outreach aimed at the general public. Interestingly, the United States is represented by only by the National Inventors Hall of Fame. To me, this fact seems to add to another common myth of creativity – that it is reserved only for geniuses.  

Discussion
There is a great deal of research regarding everyday creativity as well as creative behavior in many other aspects of life. My view, now from both an academic and a pop culture perspective, is that the public is hearing words and phrases, but have not been given the foundational thinking behind them. The ICSC appears to be addressing this issue based on one of the Big Hairy Audacious Goals: “We aim to extract the fundamental principles taught in our curriculum and to incorporate them into public programs that will be available to learners throughout the world interested in developing their creativity” (International Center for Studies in Creativity, n.d.). Though my survey may not be substantial in its methods, it has revealed a niche -- creativity education on a grassroots level. The impact of such an outreach regarding the basics of creative studies could positively affect the quality of life for many people. Explaining creativity “… will lead to a more creative society, and will enhance the creative potential of our families, our workplaces, and our institutions” (Sawyer, 2006, p. 5). More research is needed to support a hypothesis for this paper, but there seems to be a short in the circuit between creativity research and the very people with whom they are trying to connect.  

Conclusion
The influence that creative thinking has on one’s life is not in question. It has been established that it is vital to our growth and can be taught. The real question is whether or not it is being cultivated by and with the general public. While the lines of communication are open -- creativity buzz words are seen and heard nearly everywhere -- sometimes you have to bring the learning more directly to the people. The conditions are ripe for this to happen now and there is a definite need for developing self-sustainability in individuals, and in turn society. I believe the field of creativity has the perfect opportunity to harness the interest that has already been piqued by marketing giants and the burgeoning list of creativity experts. Parnes (1992) wrote “…people who care about creative ability in others, can learn to better understand and tap their own creative potential, as well as nurture it more fully in individuals and groups about whom they care” (p. 145). I invite those with the expertise to impart the fundamentals of creativity to the general public, to do so now.

References
International Center for Studies in Creativity. (n.d.). Mission and vision. Retrieved from    http://www.buffalostate.edu/creativity/mission.xml
International Center for Studies in Creativity. (n.d.). Big hairy audacious goals. Retrieved from http://www.buffalostate.edu/creativity/x952.xml
Osborn, A. (1953). Applied Imagination: Principles and procedures of creative thinking. New York, NY: Charles Scribner’s Sons.
Parnes, S. J. (Ed.). (1992). Creative Problem-Solving and visionizing. In Source book for Creative Problem Solving: A fifty year digest of proven innovation processes. Buffalo, NY: Creative Education Foundation Press.
Richards, R. (Ed.). (2007). Everyday creativity and new views of human nature: Psychological, social, and spiritual perspectives. Washington, D.C.: American Psychological Association.
Sawyer, R. K. (2006). Explaining creativity: The science of human innovation. New York, NY: Oxford University Press.
Swahn, A. L. & Svahn, S. (2008). Creativity: A science-based outlook on life and work. Bloomington, IN: AuthorHouse.
World International Property Organization. (n.d.). Creativity and innovation: Outreach aimed at the general public. Retrieved from http://www.wipo.int/ip- outreach/en/tools/guides/examples/creativity/general/
Yudess, J. (2010). Colleges and universities with degree or certificate bearing programs in Creativity. Journal of Creative Behavior, 44(2), pp. 140 – 142.

Welcome!

Hey there and welcome to my blog. Be sure to check out the "About Me" section and sign up for email notification. More creativity tips, book reviews and education opportunities to follow! Have a Creative Day!! Dana

Book Review: Creativity & Divine Surprise

Here is my latest book review...

Kincannon, K.M. (2005). Creativity and the Divine Surprise: Finding the Place of Your Resurrection. Upper Room Books: Nashville, TN.


A Pilgrim’s Journey: A Book Review

Karla M. Kincannon’s Creativity and the Divine Surprise: Finding the Place of Your Resurrection touches on some very important concepts related to the creative process, and how tapping into these energies can help a person heal from various traumas to body, mind and soul. The author is sure to thank Rollo May - a humanistic psychologist and creativity pioneer – for showing her, “the connection between creativity and faith” (p.11). She states on page 14: “As we engage our creativity in the service of our spirituality, we discern the frequency of our soul’s yearnings and the deeper currents of life” (p. 14). This message is made abundantly clear throughout the book.
The first chapter, Invitation begins this introspective, creative journey. Here, we are invited to become “pilgrims”, on our way out of the darkness in order connect to God’s divine light. The reader continues on a “pilgrim’s path”, which is closely based on Wallas’ four-stages of the creative process. However, Kincannon offers six entitled: Encounter, Preparation , Frustration, Incubation, Illumination, and Elaboration. She takes time to explain Wallas’ theory and urges that each stage of the process is equally important to the next.
The Encounter chapter showcases Kincannon’s belief that this “mysterious and mystical element” is essential, otherwise, “the creative process is less than it can be and less than it is intended to be” (p.22). I can relate to this feeling, having been on my own quest to recover my creative spirit and wounded soul, however, I found myself having trouble getting past the heavily peppered Christian overtones of this highly topical book. Nonetheless, Kincannon’s well-researched process is fleshed out neatly and straightforward for the “pilgrim”.
Each section begins with an empowering passage from the Bible and ends with an exercise that correlates to that chapter’s teachings. Much of the work is focused on taking a close look at one self - wholly and truthfully - and gives ample opportunities for the reader to learn techniques in overcoming common creativity blocks. Along with these practical exercises, she supports the “pilgrim” with engaging stories and personal reflections.
For someone who is not Christian, the overt religious nuances may muddy the course. Personally, I find her book worthwhile and was able to convert the author’s religious beliefs into something to more my liking. Creativity and the Divine Surprise: Finding the Place of Your Resurrection is a welcome addition to the growing bookshelf of explaining creativity to the general public and for those wishing to use creativity as a process for healing. For those readers who are Christian and interested in these topics, this would be great start.



Please contact the author for permission to redistribute.

Book Review: A Brilliant Thinker

With a quick pace and even flow, Paul Sloanes' How to Be a Brilliant Thinker: Exercise Your Mind and Find Creative Solutions is a comprehensive blend of interesting facts, mental exercises and foundational thinking in the field of creativity. Topics range from multiple intelligences to improving one’s intra- and interpersonal relationships. There are even questionnaires throughout the book to test one's own skill level within that particular chapter. While introducing creative thinking newcomers to the reasons why creativity is important, Sloane also reminds the avid creativity professional that sometimes skills or the lack thereof can be taken for granted, resulting in wasted opportunities for success. And for a little book (just 208 pages), this one packs a good punch with 32 chapters covering the basics of creative thinking and tips on how to become not only a brilliant thinker, but a well-rounded person as well.

In what seems to be the creativity field’s focal message, Sloane begins the book with the reasons why a need for creative thinking continues to exist. He gives examples showing how using/not using creative thinking may either enhance/hinder applications not only in business, but history as well. Historical events are examined with an eye toward how thinking creatively may have produced significantly different outcomes. Right from the get-go, the author engages the reader to stretch the mind with mental exercises that are proof-positive of the incredible power of change that creative thinking brings to every discipline. He also reminds us that everyone can use some brushing up on skills that are often lost due to laxity over time.

This book encapsulates many of the concepts that professionals in the field of creativity have touched upon previously. Sloane’s mainstream concept is an interesting experience with a fast, easy-to-read style. As a matter of fact, I was completely engaged and finished the book within a couple of days. His swift writing is intelligent, but not so heavy or cerebral in tone that the average person might not understand the principles or be turned off by the material.

There is definitely something for everyone here. Although I am familiar with much of the content, I found the chapterson mathematics and probability quite challenging. I took it as a persuasive nudge to face the facts and build my on my skills and knowledge, rather than run away from my discomfort in dealing with such content. My non-preference for clarification came through loud and clear as I read, and I have vowed to make a stronger effort to remedy this shortcoming. Other key points that I took away were different strategies that will prove to expand my knowledge base, such as new ideation techniques and the inspiration to improve on my communication skills in order to become a more confident presenter and facilitator.

The beginning of the book was more scholarly-based as opposed to the later chapters where the some of the content tended to be no-brainers for those persons who are already apt to use positive thinking and goal setting to succeed. For the creativity scholar or professional, this book may seem a bit elementary. However, it is highly beneficial for those of us who may have reverted back to our comfort zone to be reminded of the many forms of multiple intelligences that we all possess. Although some of Sloane’s writing may seem repetitive, it is done in a way as to more effectively implant and reinforce the thought, as opposed to merely being a way to simply fill the book.

I found How to be a Brilliant Thinker to be a useful addition to my own creative studies library and I recommend it not only to someone not well versed in the subject of creativity, but to my colleagues as well. It is a quick refresher for those of us striving to stretch our minds and a sufficient introductory guide for new creative studies students. In short, this book can prove beneficial to any person seeking to hone creative thinking skills in their personal and professional lives.

Please contact author for permission to distribute.

Go create!

How I Became A Vegetarian

*** This only lasted for a few months, when I realized that I am sensitive to soy and substituting meat with it made me quick ill. At the time, it did however help me with my loss. One of my loves, Clive had to be euthanized about two weeks ago. He was a special cat. We shared 15 1/2 years together. As he lay there on the cold metal table, I had a split second thought of "Why or [or more so] how do I eat meat?" I felt his fur for one last time, kissed him on his nose and closed the door behind me.

The days passed and I continued to eat meat as usual. A friend who was helping me move out of my grieving state, suggested that I go sit in nature and ask Clive's spirit to help. He had been visiting me in my dreams and knew that he was with still with me.

Luckily for me I have a backyard at my apartment building that I tend to. I come to find peace when I am reconnecting there. So last Tuesday, I sat and meditated to help remove any negative energy in general. As I was loving my garden, remembering Clive and being in the stillness, I got an impression telling me not to eat meat. It occurred to me, that if I have a love for the earth and animals as I say and think I do, than I would not aid the harm of both.

I immediately came in and visited GOVeg.com to see how I should go about it. I began watching videos of what I have been ignoring all these years. Animals are subjected to horribly cruel practices. I felt the love I have for Clive when I saw these poor animals fighting for their lives - with no chance of survival. My heart broke and without a beat - I went cold turkey ( no pun intended ).


I am starting as lacto. Organic, of course - whenever possible.

We Are Never Truly Departed

I am getting better each day as I remember that Clive is alive in me. His soul speaks to mine and he guides through the sorrow of his crossing.

I was really depressed for the past two weeks. I didn't want to get out of bed or talk to anyone except my mom. I could not dismiss my feelings of grief, but I soon remembered that in death there is rebirth. And my boy would not want me to "live" this way. When the sad feelings come up I try to replace them with visions of him happy - not of his last moments....they just continue the suffering. Our suffering. His and mine.

I was feeling guilty; not for taking away his pain by euthanizing him, but for going on with life "without" him. I feel he was a gift from God to help me love, trust and grow. And with his passing, he continues to teach me.

And though I know the sadness will linger, but I can honor him by blessing his life and being grateful he was in mine.

I am sending loving and healing energy to everyone who is in mourning and hope that peace comes to you all.