How a growth mindset fuels creativity
It’s a pervasive myth that some people are born creative, while others missed out.
While it’s true that some people do have an exceptionally bright ‘creative spark’, it’s also true that you can become more creative over time. The key? A growth mindset.
A growth mindset is the belief that abilities and intelligence can be improved through effort, learning, and perseverance. The term was popularised by Carol Dweck, an American psychologist who studies human motivation.
When you apply this mindset to creative pursuits, it opens up a world of possibilities. Always dreamed of painting watercolours? Believe in your ability to learn, commit to taking classes, and your creative muscle will strengthen over time.
Adopting a growth mindset means you’re more likely to experiment, make mistakes, and adjust course as needed. It’s helpful for letting go of perfectionism.
To foster creativity through a growth mindset, start by reframing negative thoughts. When you catch yourself thinking, “I’m not good at this,” replace it with, “What can I learn from this attempt?”
Seek out creative exercises that push you outside your comfort zone. Remember, creativity flourishes when you approach it with curiosity and perseverance.
You’ve got this!