Shortlist: 5 benefits of championing creativity in the workplace

Creativity is for everyone, regardless of their position – and it benefits workers and organisations.

Creativity – or “the ability to produce or develop original work, theories, techniques, or thoughts” – is increasingly sought after by organisations. But what are its proven benefits?

1. Creativity underpins problem solving and innovation.

Creativity encourages us to ask questions, think laterally and to find new solutions to problems. It encourages experimentation and innovation.

If we want to keep our businesses moving forward, it pays dividends to encourage all of our employees to hone their creativity – whatever their role or level of seniority. It is often our people, rather than external consultants, who come up with the processes, products and services that differentiate us from our competitors.

2. Creativity encourages teamwork and collaboration.

The creative process stimulates collaboration and demonstrates the value of diversity of thought and experience, championing connection and inclusion.

It brings a shared purpose and sense of passion to the workplace, encouraging people to brainstorm and bounce ideas off each other; it can even flatten hierarchies when everyone is enabled to make equally valid contributions.

3. Creativity is motivating.

Letting people know that we value their ideas and creativity is motivating and empowering. Rather than passively listening or absorbing information, teams and individuals are given the opportunity to challenge themselves – exploring, discovering and connecting.

Research shows that people are most likely to be creative when they’re intrinsically motivated by the interest, enjoyment, satisfaction and challenge of the work itself. However, they also need to know that recognition will follow from good, creative efforts.

4. Creativity teaches us how to fail.

The early stages of the creative process have a built-in sandbox feel where it’s ok and, in fact, useful, to fail. Some creative ideas won’t work out; others will – and these can be developed and grown. Through exposure to ‘failure’, we can learn to overcome obstacles and adopt a growth mindset.

5. Creativity relieves stress.

Creativity is playful because it is an act of exploration and experimentation. It can produce a dopamine hit of endorphins.

Creative playfulness, novelty and safe experimentation can feel like a breath of fresh air after the repetition of daily tasks or the grind of working to tight deadlines. Creativity is fun. It’s a productive way to relieve stress in the workplace.