We're constantly hustling and bustling towards our goals, so the quest to be more productive overshadows what I'd argue is the other key to unlocking true growth and potential: Creativity!
The productivity-creativity nexus
Productivity and Creativity are often seen as two separate concepts, but the truth is: they're not mutually exclusive! It's precisely the combination of these two elements that can elevate us to new heights in both personal and professional growth.
Let's unpack this symbiotic relationship: Productivity provides the structure and efficiency needed to execute tasks, while creativity injects innovation and fresh perspectives.
This dynamic duo is a powerhouse for anyone aiming to achieve holistic success.
Living proof: Steve Jobs!
In fact, Apple is a perfect example of this, specifically its co-founder Steve Jobs!
Jobs was not only a visionary but also a master of productivity. He seamlessly blended creativity and productivity into his groundbreaking products that changed the tech landscape.
Think about it: If you own an iPhone, you adore it for its easy-to-use features that allows you to streamline productive tasks (like Focus modes, automatic reminders, Handoff), but you also love how easy it is to customise and make your own (like being able to swiftly change between Lock Screens, customise app icons, and add aesthetic widgets).
Jobs' success demonstrates that innovation doesn't flourish in chaos or rigidness, but in the structured application of creative ideas.
Let's break the monotonous routines
As great as routines are, repetitive tasks and rigid routines can stifle creativity.
Introducing creative elements into your workflow can break the monotony, fostering a more engaging and dynamic environment. It allows for "out of the box" thinking, sparking fresh ideas that might have remained dormant in a strictly regimented schedule.
Living proof: J.K. Rowling!
J.K. Rowling, the author of the Harry Potter series, exemplifies how creativity can flourish even in the most mundane things.
Rowling first had the idea during a delayed train journey from Manchester to London in 1990 - a story about a young boy attending a school of magic popped into her head. Over the next few years, she fleshed out the plot and characters, and Harry Potter world was born.
She turned a potentially mundane experience into a beginning of creative (and successful) journey. This spontaneity allowed her to create one of the most beloved literary works of our time.
And if you're still not convinced on why it's important to be both creative AND productive, here are more reasons why:
- Creativity helps you find new solutions to problems
When you allow yourself to think outside the box, you can find new solutions that you may not have considered before. This can be especially helpful in the workplace, where problem-solving skills are highly valued.
- Productivity helps you turn your creative ideas into reality
On the other hand, being productive is important because it allows you to turn your creative ideas into reality. It's one thing to come up with a great idea, but it's another thing entirely to bring it to life. Being productive means setting goals, prioritising tasks, and taking action to make your ideas a reality.
- Creativity can boost your mood and energy
When you're feeling drained and uninspired from all your routinely tasks, taking a break to engage in a creative activity can help boost your mood and energy. This can in turn help you feel more productive when you return to your work tasks. Studies have shown that engaging in creative activities can lead to increased happiness and reduced stress levels.
- Creativity and productivity can lead to innovation
Finally, combining creativity and productivity can lead to innovation. When you're able to think creatively and bring your ideas to life, you can come up with new and innovative solutions to problems. This can lead to breakthroughs in your industry or field, which can ultimately benefit society as a whole.
So how you can you (practically) integrate creativity into your daily routines and fast-paced lifestyle?
You're probably thinking you need to dedicate a whole hour or maybe even a whole day to practising creativity, so you shy away from the idea and just proceed with your fast-paced, highly-productive routine...
But there are much simpler ways to be creative in everyday life and the best part: you don't need to be artistic! Here's a few examples:
- Wear a new outfit everday
- Spend 10 minutes just noticing your surroundings
- Cook new recipes every week
- Redecorate a new corner in your office or home
- Take more photos of things and places
- Try mindmapping
- Doodle for 5 minutes every single day - it could be circles, lines, anything!
But if you're still leaning on a more productive way to be creative, I just launched a 2024 Digital Planner designed with the multi-passionate go-getter in mind, that seamlessly combines structured productivity tools with creative prompts:
- Daily Kickstart Journal: A dedicated space to ignite your creativity every day.
- Vision Board Templates: Visualise your goals and infuse creativity into your planning.
- Reflection Pages: Take a moment to reflect on your achievements and plan creatively for tomorrow.
It's 2024 - it's the year for investing in education and tools that help us reach our full potentials!
Embrace both productivity AND creativity, and watch your growth reach unprecedented heights.
Shop my 2024 Digital Planner today and take the first step towards better balance and new heights.
And if you're unsure if you'll need a digital planner, I get that!
Let's take it one step at a time - because small progress is STILL progress!
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(P.S. I used to work in a boutique law firm, so my life was fast-paced. These resources would have reminded me that personal growth matters just as much (if not more) that work achievements!)