What Is Creativity and Why Do You Need It?

Creativity helps us perceive the world in new and different ways. In fact, it is one of the most important characteristics of being human. It is one of the main traits that makes us successful as individuals and as a society, but where does creativity come from? Why do you need it? To gain a better understanding, let’s explore creativity and its importance in life.  

Creativity is the ability to make new things or think of new concepts. It involves transforming your ideas, imagination and dreams into reality. Creative people use their imaginations to solve problems and come up with innovative ideas. They can see hidden patterns and draw connections between things that are not normally related. 

Anyone can be creative. It’s more of a developed skill than an inherent talent. You can learn to be creative by experimenting, exploring, asking questions and using your imagination. Learning to be creative is like learning a sport. It takes practice, but with some hard work and dedication, you can flourish. 

Neuroscientists, or scientists who study the brain, suggest that creativity happens when all three of the brain’s networks are problem-solving together. Let’s break this down.

The brain has three different networks, or regions, that each handles specific tasks: the default network, the executive network and the salience network. 

The default network is the brain’s “inactive” mode. This part of the brain shows increased activity when a person is daydreaming or not focused on what is happening around them. 

The executive network is the brain’s decision and emotion center. This part of the brain helps us make decisions based on our thoughts and feelings. 

The salience network is where the brain determines what things you will always notice and what things you don’t. To put it simply, this part of the brain decides what is or is not deserving of our attention. 

Each network has its role to play in the creative process. The default network generates ideas, the executive network evaluates them, and the salience network helps identify which ideas get passed along. 

Scientists are still exploring the many layers to creative expression. However, understanding the science behind creativity helps us to better understand our own creative processes. 

Creativity is good for your health in many ways. It improves immune function, decreases blood pressure and relieves physical pain through the release of endorphins, or “feel-good” neurotransmitters, in the brain. Studies show that creative activities help the brain recover after illness, injury or severe stress.

Expressing yourself creatively not only benefits the body but the mind, too. Creative activities are like therapy for the mind. They help us connect with ourselves in a deeper way by promoting critical thinking and self-reflection. This process helps to relieve stress, reduce anxiety and depression and improve our overall mood. 

Creativity also affects your social life. People bond through common experiences and interests. Socializing over creative activities creates community and promotes positive interactions between people. This form of healthy social life is essential to our well-being. 

Creativity is all about finding new ways to solve problems and approach situations. You can enhance your creativity by engaging in a variety of activities and behaviors. Here are just a few ideas: