As we approach 2025, many of us are rethinking our goals, both personally and professionally. One area gaining particular attention is the pursuit of creativity and the cultivation of a more flexible, creative mindset. The good news is that creativity isn’t simply a magical trait you’re born with—it’s a skill you can develop and maintain over time. Here is the science. According to a quantitative review by Scott, Leritz, and Mumford, creativity training and structured practice can significantly improve a person’s ability to generate original ideas and solutions.^1
Staying creative matters for several reasons. On a personal level, creativity can make daily life more enjoyable. By experimenting with new recipes, rearranging a living space, or picking up an unfamiliar hobby, you give your brain “mental workouts” that help it form fresh connections. These efforts can reduce stress, lift your mood, and keep your mind sharp as you age. Physically engaging in activities like team sports or simple exercises also contributes to creativity, releasing feel-good chemicals that foster a more open mindset and even improve problem-solving. Have you heard of Pick-up Ball or Timeleft?
Professionally, creativity pays off in how you handle challenges. It inspires innovation. Whether you’re designing a product, managing a project, or strategizing in a competitive market, the ability to see beyond familiar patterns is a major advantage. Businesses highly value individuals who can pivot, adapt, and innovate—traits linked directly to consistent creative thinking. Even when routines offer a stable foundation, the occasional “discomfort” of trying something new or exploring an unfamiliar approach can spark fresh insights. Embracing discomfort doesn’t mean you have to live in it.
In "The Comfort Crisis," Michael Easter explores how modern society's emphasis on comfort can stifle creativity. He suggests that intentionally embracing discomfort—such as engaging in challenging physical activities or spending time in nature—can enhance mental resilience and foster creative thinking. Easter's insights highlight the importance of stepping outside our comfort zones to stimulate innovation and maintain creativity in an increasingly convenient world.
Fostering creativity remains essential for personal growth and professional success. Engaging in new experiences, such as dining with strangers through platforms like Timeleft.com, can significantly enhance creative thinking. Timeleft organizes weekly dinners where individuals are matched based on personality traits, encouraging meaningful conversations and connections. This is #notsponsored, its my personal interest in new products and services that are out there. This innovative approach not only broadens social networks but also exposes participants to diverse perspectives, interactions which are crucial for creative development. The more we work from home or hybrid schedules, it slowly weakens our socials skills. The weakening of social skills can negatively impact both creativity and health.
New Year Goals: Keeping Creativity and Sanity
So, how do we keep creativity alive in 2025? For starters, try adopting a more systematic approach. The research by Scott, Leritz, and Mumford suggests that effective creativity training involves structured exercises, real-time feedback, and multiple problem-solving techniques. Instead of relying on a single “lightbulb moment,” focus on building a toolkit of methods—like brainstorming, mind-mapping, and role-playing.
Give yourself time to reflect and allow your subconscious to piece together ideas, and remember that small steps can have big returns. "One day at a time" mentality. Never stopping. Always keep going.
Another crucial element is balancing competition and relaxation. A bit of friendly rivalry can sharpen your focus, pushing you to think more resourcefully. However, too much pressure or stress can narrow your perspective, limiting your creativity. Similarly, regular exercise and engaging in group activities, such as team sports, can improve your mood and help you approach challenges with fresh eyes. Here is your reason to find a fun event to try. Go painting, kickball, weekly ball with the crew. Even better when with friends.
Fostering creativity remains essential for personal growth and professional success. Think about it. Engaging in new experiences, such as dining with strangers through platforms like Timeleft.com, can significantly enhance creative thinking. Timeleft organizes weekly dinners where individuals are matched based on personality traits, encouraging meaningful conversations and connections. This is not an ad, its my personal interest in new products and services. This innovative approach not only broadens social networks but also exposes participants to diverse perspectives and interactions, which can crucial for creative development. The more we work from home or hybrid schedules. It weakens our socials skills. The weakening of social skills can negatively impact both creativity and health. Companies and brands need to pay attention for what's ahead with this "new norm".
In essence, as we move into 2025, consider creativity a long-term investment in your personal and professional success. By experimenting with new routines, seeking diverse experiences, and challenging old assumptions, you can stay agile, engaged, and ready to face whatever comes your way.
HNY #HMU
-SL
Source Note:
^1. George M. Scott, L. E. Leritz, and Michael D. Mumford, “The Effectiveness of Creativity Training: A Quantitative Review,” Creativity Research Journal 16, no. 4 (2004): 361–388.
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