health
I've studied highly creative people for 40 years. These 4 phrases stifle our creativity—how to avoid them
Anthony Fredericks has written over 180 books, two on creativity. He says that these four common phrases can stop creative thinking cold.
TL;DR
- Many adults feel their childhood creativity diminishes, but common phrases can unintentionally stifle innovation.
- Instead of "I'm not very creative," ask divergent questions like "What are some different ways I could look at this?"
- Replace "It can't be done" with exercises that explore alternative uses for common items to break logical thinking.
- Avoid "I've always done it this way" by embracing new experiences, such as reading diverse books or traveling.
- Counter "What will people think?" by channeling childlike curiosity and regularly asking "What if?" to generate ideas freely.