Creativity, the secret sauce
In today's fast-paced world, information processing is a crucial skill that allows individuals to make sense of the vast amounts of information available to them. However, simply processing information is not enough. To truly succeed, individuals must be able to approach problems and challenges in innovative ways. This is where creativity comes in.
According to "The Creative Cognition Approach" by S. M. Smith and T. B. Ward, creativity is a key component of effective information processing. The study posits that creative thinking involves both generating new ideas and evaluating them for their potential usefulness. This approach to problem-solving allows individuals to come up with novel solutions to complex problems, leading to more effective information processing.
The study also highlights the importance of the "incubation" period in creative thinking. This is the time when individuals step away from a problem and allow their minds to wander, often leading to unexpected insights and ideas. The study suggests that the incubation period is essential for effective information processing and problem-solving.
Furthermore, the study found that creative thinking involves a network of brain regions that work together to generate and evaluate ideas. This network includes regions in the prefrontal cortex, parietal cortex, and temporal lobes, as well as the cerebellum and basal ganglia. The study suggests that this network is essential for effective information processing and problem-solving.
So, how can we enhance our own creativity and improve our ability to process information? The study suggests that engaging in activities that promote creative thinking, such as brainstorming sessions or creative writing exercises, can be beneficial. Additionally, taking breaks from focused work to allow our minds to wander and daydream can lead to new and unexpected ideas.
In conclusion, creativity is a key component of effective information processing and problem-solving. The "Creative Cognition Approach" highlights the importance of generating and evaluating ideas, as well as the incubation period, in the creative thinking process. By incorporating these strategies into our daily lives, we can unlock our full potential and approach challenges in new and innovative ways.
Get in touch about incorporating a workshop focussed on creativity at your organisation and inject some joy and life into your everyday.
