Creativity is the process of using one’s originality to devise novel ways to positively contribute to one’s own life or the lives of others. Such originality can range from everyday ingenuity to ground-breaking work that becomes highly recognised. Creative people are able to apply their imaginations in new and surprising ways in order to solve the problems that they encounter. Traditional notions of creativity focus on artistic expression and scientific discovery, but tis strength can be applied to any area of life in which obstacles can be addresses imaginatively.

How to demonstrate this Character Strength:

Movies: Shine (1996), Amadeus (1984)

Suggested strategies that correlate with this strength:

  1. Create and refine at least one original idea weekly in an area of your interest.
  2. Do at least one assignment weekly in a different and creative manner.
  3. Write an article, essay, short story, poem, draw or paint in relation to your passion once a week
  4. Offer at least on creative solution to challenges of a sibling or a friend
  5. Compile an original and practical list of solutions or tips that will address common challenges faced by you and your peers

Look for different and creative ways to spend more time at tasks you do best.

  1. Brainstorm ideas of challenging tasks with your friends.
  2. Audition for community theatre or choir
  3. Redesign your room or home
  4. Take a pottery, photography, stained glass, sculpture or painting class
  5. Learn about an exotic and creative art such as Feng-shui of Ikebana
  6. Read about famous creative people and identify what made them unique
  7. Use leftovers (food, stationary etc) to make new products
  8. Design a personalised card instead of buying one.

By monitoring the above, you will be able to catch when there is an incongruence in this personal strength. An incongruence will compromise you and cause inner conflict, so the above will help you keep on the right track.

 

References:

Niemiec, R. M, 2017, Character Strengths Interventions, Hogrefe, Boston

Tayyab, R., Anjum, A., 2005, 340 Ways to Use VIA Character Strengths, University of Pennsylvania