Courage and inspiration are words often used in storybooks, rarely leaving the pages they were written on.
Creativity could be placed in the same category. Very little can be considered creative by today’s standard and very little can claim to be original.
In this world, this life, this space we find ourselves in – how much of what is around us is actually new, courageous or inspiring? I’ve realised that in order to be creative today, you need the ability to separate your idea from all the clutter and to make a difference with your idea, where it matters most.
Acting on your idea
Having a creative idea has no value, except when we move to act on it, and then discover the potential within the idea.
Working with an App recently, where so many ideas, pictures, recipes, art and designs were shared, it was frustratingly difficult to decide which one to implement, and to make sense of it all. So what does this mean in terms of leadership?
Charismatic leaders are able to use the same information and resources we all have, but they create a brand new perspective. They are recognised as leaders because they make sense. In a world filled with noise, they bring perspective and clarity. This simple ability is creative.
Inspired to create
Inspiration is another creative tool used by leaders.
When was the last time you felt inspired? Not excited or happy but truly inspired? Leaders who are inspired easily inspire others. Everything that does not inspire us to act and do something needs to go.
This allows more time to explore. By doing something completely different, we are exercising our creativity. People love watching other people do different things. It gets them to want to follow suit.
What else?
By asking “What else?” leaders ultimately find answers.
In a recent conversation with a property lawyer, I kept asking ‘What else’, and was horrified by how many questions needed answers that I was not asking. All of them were assumed answered.
By asking ‘What Else’, I unearthed so many gems that ultimately saved me thousands. Asking questions enable us to learn new things. In a world filled with information, finding the right information is becoming rare. Instead of making statements, next time, ask questions.
Don’t let it…. just lead
Leaders are doers, not talkers.
Leaders take action. More importantly, they take action consistently. People love consistency. Make small promises and ensure they are easy to deliver. These will inspire you to make larger ones that actually scare you. You will find by using the key insights from above, your brain has the ability to rise to the occasion. Creativity will step in and assist with your delivery.
Anything is possible. Your own thinking and beliefs limits your possibility. Don’t let it…. just lead.
Marcel Pretorius | Business Relationship Manager | TowerStone | http://www.towerstone-global.com/ | marcel.pretorius@towerstone-global.com |
