Creativity Stifled

Creativity Stifled

Before I really start on this theme, I need to once again assert that when I talk about creativity I am talking about it in all forms, not just music and art – or creating the great innovative breakthrough.  Creativity is the ability to think independently and to come to new solutions, new ways of considering things, new ways of behaving, etc.  It’s being aware of your surroundings and responding not merely obeying and following.  It’s improving processes, treating people intuitively and allowing yourself to be yourself, not merely a clone of others.

When we watch young children we see them as curious, energetic and incredibly creative.  What happens?  Why, as they age are most of them afraid to take a risk? 

It seems to me that all too often parents, teachers and others stifle this natural tendency to explore by making sure kids color within the lines, follow instructions, do exactly as they are told, follow tradition, and all the other words we use to force conformity.

What happens to the creative kid in school who wants to try a different approach to solving a problem?  

Why do we see “a nation of sheep” – people who value conformity and “not making waves” as more important than expression of ideas?

Who ever said “If you don’t have something nice to say, don’t say anything at all”?

Speaking out is so important. 

The world is a dangerous place,
not because of those who do evil,
but because of those who look on and do nothing.
Albert Einstein.