Creative Together

About the Author

Steven Kowalski is a visionary in the field of creativity and organizational development. With a robust academic background in psychology and a prolific career as a consultant, Kowalski has helped numerous organizations and individuals unlock their creative potential. He believes that creativity is not just an inherent trait but a dynamic force that can be cultivated and harnessed to drive innovation and success. Through his work, including his seminal book Creative Together: Sparking Innovation in the New World of Work, Kowalski has become a leading voice in advocating for the integration of creativity into the core of organizational practices.

Main Idea

The essence of Creative Together lies in the recognition that creativity is a universal potential waiting to be unleashed. Kowalski introduces the notion of Creativity Disruption Disorder (CDD), a condition stemming from outdated beliefs about creativity. By employing the GIFTED methodology—Greet the unknown with passion, Ignite your creative potential, Flex your superpowers, Thrive in co-creation, Experiment in the swamp, and Dare to dream big—individuals and organizations can overcome CDD and foster a culture of innovation and collaboration.

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Claiming Your Gift
3. Discovering Your Creative Potential
4. Activating Creativity
5. Greeting The Unknown
6. Flexing Your Superpowers
7. Navigating Tests
8. Stepping Across The Threshold
9. Getting Creative Together
10. Identifying Your Creative Style
11. Co-Creating
12. Adapting Your Style
13. Sharing Leadership
14. Leading Co-Creation From Any Seat
15. Crossing The Swamp
16. Coming Together Anew
17. Conclusion

Introduction

Steven Kowalski starts by addressing a fundamental truth: creativity is an intrinsic part of all of us, though often underutilized. He challenges readers to break free from their comfort zones and embrace the unknown with passion and curiosity. The modern world of work demands this shift in mindset, as traditional approaches no longer suffice in the face of rapid change and complexity. By embracing a new narrative about creativity, one that views it as a potential rather than a rare talent, individuals can unlock unprecedented levels of innovation and fulfillment.

"Creativity is always with you – it never left." – Steven Kowalski

Claiming Your Gift

The journey to overcoming CDD begins with recognizing and claiming your creative gift. Kowalski emphasizes that creativity is not an elite trait but a universal potential. He outlines several steps to reclaim this gift, starting with exploring one's relationship with creativity and challenging limiting beliefs. By seeing creativity as a potential, individuals can transform their approach to both work and life.

Discovering Your Creative Potential

Kowalski argues that creativity should be viewed as a potential rather than a fixed ability. This shift in perspective can bring about significant changes in how individuals engage with their work and personal lives. He outlines five key shifts that occur when we view creativity as potential: