Creativity is a Frame of Mind

 Creativity… a Frame of Mind

 

Many people associate creativity with arts and crafts. But it is so much more. Creativity is a frame of mind. 

It is the openness to recognize solutions to problems using what you have available.

 

Likely you’ve heard the saying “Necessity is the mother of invention.” It’s true. But there is more than need driving the creative mind. 

 

Think about it.   

Saw this at an arts and crafts show.

 

Creativity may be fueled by a dream or desire. The Wright brothers wanted to fly. They couldn’t grow wings, so they figured out a way to build some. 

 

Creativity is the outcome of solving a problem when the “typical” tools aren’t available or the solution isn’t readily visible.  

Creativity is being confident enough to take a first step toward a possible solution.

Remember Appollo 13? If you watched the movie, consider the scene where a group of scientists and engineers need to develop something to address the need for oxygen to help the stranded astronauts. They are forced to consider what the astronauts have on the space capsule to use to build what they need to assure all three of them will make it back to earth. 

 

It’s a true story.   

Our "Lending Library" is made of
an ice box with a Barbie doll house roof.

 

Sometimes creativity means observing something in one area and applying to another. 

 

The invention of Velcro comes to mind. A man by the name of George de Mestral noticed the cockle burrs attaching themselves to his dog’s thick fur. The hooks and loops of Velcro soon became a useful fastener for clothing. 

 

I often meet people who tell me they don’t have a creative bone in their body. I find that hard to believe. Some people don’t think they are creative. Maybe you are one of those people. 

 

The truth is… you may be more creative than you think. 

 

You may be that person who can pull random items from the refrigerator and create a delicious meal for your family without a second thought. 

 

This Gal at The Diner was Creative!

Maybe you’re the one who figured out a way to move a heavy, awkward piece of furniture across the room without scratching the floor.  

 

You could have been the one who punched holes in garbage bags and donned them as ponchos to protect you from the rain. Silly? No. Creative. 

 

Quite simply, being creative is more than arts and crafts.  

 

Creativity is an openness to the notion that there are multiple ways to solve a problem. 

 

How does creativity play out in your life? Please share your thoughts in the comments below. 

One more picture...

Mike used a Boot Jack to practice his putting!