As a graphic designer, I am called upon to use creativity to solve problems. But that’s a rather obvious example, and it doesn’t stop there. In all areas of business and life we are called upon more than ever to “be creative” in coming up with solutions to all sorts of problems. Creativity is looked to as an edge we can gain over our competition to help us stand out.

So, how can one be more creative? It is a common belief that some people are simply more creative than others, possessing that mysterious “x” factor that allows them to produce creative solutions out of thin air. I recently ran across a talk by Monty Python actor/writer John Cleese on the topic of creativity. (It’s from around 1991 – so not new – but it seems to be making the rounds recently.) He cites numerous studies, as well as his own experience, that insist creativity is something quite different. In short, creativity is not a talent that some of us have and some of us don’t, but rather a way of operating. It is a set of practices that we can all employ in our work and lives. It’s a rather empowering perspective and I would highly recommend watching if you are at all called upon to be more creative to come up with better solutions to problems. At about 35 minutes, it’s a bit long, but well worth the time. (Plus, it’s John Cleese, so it’s an excuse to watch a funny video at work!)

If you’d prefer to read, PoetryGenius has a transcript of the talk here.