40. Deliberate Creativity with Dr. Amy Climer

What if the story you've been told about creativity isn't true?

Many of us have been conditioned to believe we’re not creative, that creativity belongs only to artists, designers, or "gifted" people. But what if creativity is actually within all of us? Just waiting to be unlocked?

Creativity expert, Dr. Amy Climer, joins me to challenge the limiting beliefs that hold so many of us back. Creativity isn’t just about art…It’s about problem-solving, innovation, and making an impact in our work and lives overall. Amy shares her definition of creativity as "novelty that is valuable" and breaks down why organizations must embrace creativity to thrive.

We explore the intersection of creativity, structure, and innovation, even in highly regulated industries like healthcare and finance. Amy also shares how to foster creativity within teams, how conflict (when managed well) can spark innovation, and practical ways to overcome self-judgment.

If you’ve ever told yourself, “I’m just not creative,” this episode is for you.

Key Takeaways:

• Creativity is often limited by societal conditioning.
• Many people believe they lack creativity due to past experiences.
• Creativity is defined as “novelty that is valuable.”
• Being creative requires practice and understanding of the creative process.
• Organizations that innovate are more likely to thrive.
• Team dynamics play a crucial role in fostering creativity.
• Conflict can be beneficial if managed properly in teams.
• A strong team purpose enhances creative collaboration.
• Leaders must recognize that creativity comes from all team members.
• Deliberate approaches to creativity can lead to better outcomes, and clear process improves team behavior and collaboration.
• Brainstorming sessions often lack necessary structure, and creativity thrives within certain limitations and structure.
• Even regulated environments can benefit from creative thinking.
• Creativity can manifest in various professional roles.
• Individuals can unlock creativity through practical exercises.
• Self-judgment hinders creative idea generation.
• Climer Cards, a creativity and teambuilding tool designed by Amy, can facilitate engaging team discussions.

About Amy Climer:

Dr. Amy Climer is a speaker, trainer, and coach who teaches teams how to innovate on demand. She is the author of Deliberate Creative Teams: How to Lead for Innovative Results written to help leaders understand how to increase creativity in their teams. She hosts The Deliberate Creative™ podcast, and she is the designer of Climer Cards, a creativity and teambuilding tool. Amy has a Ph.D. in Leadership and Change.

Follow Amy, and find her resources here!

• Amy's Website: ClimerConsulting.com
• Deliberate Creative Teams Book
  • Website
  • Amazon
• Climer Cards: com
• Amy Climer on Facebook (@climerconsulting)
• Amy Climer on LinkedIn (in/amyclimer)
• Amy Climer on Instagram (@amyclimer)
• Amy Climer on BlueSky (@amyclimer.bsky.social)
• Amy Climer on X/Twitter(@amyclimer)

Thanks for listening! 

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