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Introduction
Big Business Ideas
Stephene Chikozho
BUSINESS growth is, in many ways, boosted by creative industries.
These include the design, advertising, publishing and film sectors. In this digital age, many researchers have demonstrated how creativity can advance business growth. However, is it so simple? In business, it is not helpful to be a creative, an original thinker, unless you can sell what you are promoting.
Born or made?
The question of whether creatives are born or made is a subject that has long intrigued business executives and entrepreneurs alike.
It revolves around the idea of whether creativity is an innate, inherent quality or a skillset that can be developed and nurtured.
In this article, we shall explore both perspectives in a bid to shed light on the impact of creativity on business.
Creativity as innate quality
One school of thought posits that creativity is an inherent trait that some individuals are born with. Proponents of this viewpoint argue that certain individuals possess a natural inclination towards divergent thinking, problem-solving, and the generation of novel ideas.
These individuals may demonstrate early signs of creativity through their unique perspectives, imagination, curiosity and ability to connect seemingly unrelated concepts.
Supporting this argument, research has shown that individuals with highly creative abilities often exhibit specific neurological characteristics. Brain imaging techniques have revealed differences in the brain structure and connectivity of creative individuals, suggesting that their cognitive processes are wired in a distinct way. Furthermore, many individuals who are considered highly creative demonstrate an early emergence of artistic or imaginative skills, suggesting an inherent disposition towards creative pursuits. This notion is reinforced by numerous examples of child prodigies and artists who exhibit extraordinary talent at very young ages, seemingly without significant external influence.
Creativity as developed
Contrary to the belief in innate creativity, others argue that creative abilities are not exclusive to a select few and can be nurtured and developed by anyone. This perspective emphasises the importance of environmental factors such as education, exposure and experience in shaping creative abilities. Acquiring knowledge, practising artistic techniques and engaging in creative disciplines help individuals build a foundation for expressing their creativity.
Formal education, training and mentorship programmes provide aspiring artists with the skills, techniques and frameworks to enhance their creative output. Through practice, experimentation and exposure to different artistic influences, individuals can expand their creative boundaries and refine their artistic skills.
Furthermore, creative potential often flourishes in environments that encourage and value artistic expression.
Supportive business communities, collaborative workspaces and exposure to diverse cultures and ideas can foster a fertile ground for creative and business growth.
Synergy of nature and nurture
While the debate between nature and nurture in creativity remains inconclusive, it is widely accepted that creative abilities are a product of both innate qualities and environmental influences. While some individuals may possess an inherent predisposition towards creativity, the development of their creative abilities relies heavily on education, exposure and personal experiences.
Successful creatives often undergo a continuous process of personal growth and self-improvement.
They seek inspiration, experiment with new techniques and explore diverse perspectives.
This ongoing engagement and dedication to their craft suggests that creativity is not solely an innate trait but also a skill and mindset that can be cultivated and enriched over time.
Conclusion
The question of whether creatives are made or born is complex and multifaceted. Entrepreneurs and business executives should take note that, while there may be inherent qualities and predispositions that contribute to a person’s creative abilities, the development of creativity requires both innate potential and an enabling environment.
Education, exposure, practice and personal growth play crucial roles in nurturing and refining creative skills. Therefore, it can be said that creatives are both born with potential and made through their interactions with the world around them.
In business, innovation and creativity must be invasive and perpetual: everyone, everywhere and all the time.
Stephene Chikozho is managing director of Urbane Create Agency — a strategy, marketing and advertising agency. He writes in his personal capacity. You can follow him on social media (Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn), WhatsApp +263772409651 or email [email protected]
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