Many companies believe they need more creativity.

I align with this perspective.

We need problem solving and new ideas more than ever.

The challenges of the world and business are looming.

We all have the opportunity to make a difference.

Three Components of Creativity

I came across an article from HBR that was written in 1998.

The year my daughter was born (she is now a young adult).

Yet, the insight from this article is still relevant today.

Shown in the chart below, there are three components of creativity within each of us.

The first is Expertise.

This is our knowledge: technical, procedural, and intellectual.

Next, is Motivation.

The article suggests that not all motivation is equal.

Having an inner passion to solve the problem leads to far more creative solutions.

External motivation such as money provides less motivation.

Finally, we have Creative Thinking Skills.

These determine how flexible and imaginative we are when approaching problems.

And, how we preserve through dry spells.

Your Turn

Does this lens on creativity inspire ideas for your work?

Do you feel you apply all three dimensions on a regular basis?

What could you do with this insight to support creativity on your team at work?