CORE VALUE: CREATIVity

Core values in an individual or an organization cannot be given. They have to be cultivated and emanate from the individual(s). They are the framework that facilitates all outcomes. In other words, they are the system that all situations are fed through.

The fifth value is creativity. The etymology of the word create comes from the word meaning "to grow" or "make grow". This core value focuses on the ability to use imagination as a blueprint for action. Or, in other words, using though as a seed. This value is perhaps the most overlooked of the 5. Partly because the work creative has been mistakenly used interchangeably with artistic. Creative and artistic are not the same.

Think back on a time when there was a good idea that fizzled out. Or a great initiative that never took off. Too often we throw goals out with out going through the creative process. The creative part is doing the work that allows the seed sprout and grow. Anyone who has ever grown anything knows the most important work happens before the seed is even planted. The ground is cleared. Rocks and debris are removed. The soil is loosened and enriched. The environment is checked and adjusted if possible. After all of this work, the seed is then planted.

Creative individuals look at the idea or goal and search for the impediments. They clear the ground, the rocks and debris. They prepare the environment, adjusting the conditions to facilitate success.

The symptoms of creativity is planning, preparation, proactivity and debate. All of these are the byproduct of imagination and creativity. Not convinced? Try this exercise, then re-read this core value:

1. Write down a goal

2. Write down all of the major impediments

3. Write out a plan to remove those impediments

4. Write down the conditions that would facilitate reaching this goal

5. Write down how you can impact those conditions

6. Write out a time-line to achieve the goal

My suspicion would be, you feel more confident in the goal after step 6 than you did after step 1. This is because you created an imaginary world that facilitates success. The question of how do I get there is answered and replaced with a vision. Creative individuals have developed the talent to bring vision into focus and move forward with clarity.