Why is creativity important?

Creativity is the skill most desired by executives around the world and across industries. Writing in Forbe, best-selling author Bernard Marr explains: “Creativity will be one of the most desirable skills in the future workplace, especially as we hand more and more routine tasks over to machines. Creative thinking, like coming up with new ideas, problem-solving, imagining beyond the status quo, and implementing ideas to fix issues and make things better, will be critical in the workplace of the future.”

Clearly there’s benefit in the workplace to foster creativity.

But what about beyond work? How can being more creative benefit your life beyond work? Good news! There is a growing body of evidence that even a small amount of creative activity can improve your wellbeing. Curiosity is central to creativity and, according to writer and health reporter Markham Heid, regardless of your age, "research has found that high and consistent levels of curiosity correlate with mental well-being and life satisfaction."

Most important, the result of your creative efforts is not the trigger of these well-being benefits. Rather, it's the process, meaning you can experience the good feelings associated with engaging in creativity whether you consider yourself creative or not.

More articles and resources:

Creativity and Emotional Well-Being: Recent Research

Can Creativity Enhance Mental Health & Workplace Wellness?

Creativity Feels Good

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Updated 12.28.22