Here are a few thoughts on some ways we can foster greater creativity:
1. Make time for thinking creatively
Set aside regular time for “brainstorming” – by yourself and, better still, with other people and especially with any teams you are a part of. Think creatively. Research should be everybody’s preoccupation and innovation is everybody’s game
"The organizations of the future will increasingly depend on the creativity of their members to survive. Great Groups offer a new model in which the leader is an equal among Titans. In a truly creative collaboration, work is pleasure, and the only rules and procedures are those that advance the common cause." [Warren Bennis]
2. Ask good questions
Regularly ask yourself, “What’s working well and why?” and “What’s not working and why?”
3. Generate lots of new ideas
"To have a great idea, have a lot of them." [Thomas Edison]
"Genius is one percent inspiration, and ninety-nine percent perspiration." [Thomas Edison]
4. Listen and learn
Be a strategic listener. Expose yourself to different viewpoints and learning and ideas. Look for future trends, people’s needs and new ideas – everywhere!
5. Think outside the box
Create an atmosphere within your team that says, “Let’s find a better way” and that encourages “thinking outside the box.” Always be looking for a new idea that will improve or expand your ministry. Admit where things are no longer working and make appropriate changes. Don’t get stuck with a mentality that says, “That’s the way we’ve always done it.”
When something seems impossible, find a way! Read the story recorded in Mark 2:1-5 for a good example.
What annoys you? Frustration is a catalyst to innovation!
6. Don't be afraid of failure
Take a risk! Conduct an experiment! Try it! Maybe we need to “celebrate” failure rather than just “tolerate it.”
"Success is on the far side of failure." [Thomas Watson Snr.]
"The things we fear most in organizations — fluctuations, disturbances, imbalances — are the primary sources of creativity." [Margaret J. Wheatley]
7. Have fun!
We need to take God more seriously and ourselves less seriously. Learn to laugh at yourself and enjoy the journey.
Let’s step up our MOTIVATION for creativity!!