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Creativity
480 pages, 2013
The bestselling author of Flow shows what it takes to achieve the joy and fulfillment that comes from work done with a sense of purpose and meaning.
Drawing on interviews with a wide range of professionals, from biologists and physicists to politicians and business leaders, to poets and artists, as well as thirty years of research on the subject, psychologist Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi explains how to cultivate creativity.
He discusses such topics as the role of parents in their children's lives, why creative people are often seen as selfish and arrogant, and why the tortured genius is largely a myth. He demonstrates why creativity needs to be nurtured if our country is to remain economically competitive and morally sound.
In his book, Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi emphasizes that creativity isn't a trait that only a few gifted people possess. Instead, it's a process that anyone can learn and cultivate. He encourages readers to explore their own creative potential and find ways to nurture it.
The environment plays a crucial role in fostering creativity. The author suggests that being in an environment that encourages risk-taking and values originality can significantly boost your creative output. So, take a look around you, is your environment helping or hindering your creativity?
Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi stresses the importance of persistence in the creative process. He argues that creativity often involves a lot of trial and error, and it's the ability to keep going despite setbacks that often separates the truly creative individuals from the rest. So, don't give up, keep pushing!
He also explores the link between creativity and happiness. According to him, engaging in creative activities can lead to a state of 'flow', a state of complete absorption in an activity where you lose track of time. This state of flow is closely linked to feelings of happiness and fulfillment.
Finally, the author reminds us that creativity isn't just for artists or inventors. It can be applied in every aspect of life, from problem-solving at work to improving personal relationships. So, why not dig into your own life and see where you can apply a dash of creativity?
Quotes 5
Csikszentmihalyi's 'Creativity' is a profound exploration of the creative process. It's a must-read for anyone seeking to understand and unleash their creative potential.
Daniel Pink - Bestselling Author'Creativity' by Csikszentmihalyi is a groundbreaking work that illuminates the nature of creativity and its role in our lives.
Ken Robinson - Education ExpertCsikszentmihalyi's 'Creativity' is a fascinating study that provides deep insights into the creative mind. It's a book that challenges and inspires.
Malcolm Gladwell - Journalist, Author'Creativity' is a powerful book that explores the essence of creativity. Csikszentmihalyi's work is a guide to unlocking your creative potential.
Tony Robbins - Motivational SpeakerIn 'Creativity', Csikszentmihalyi provides a compelling and insightful examination of the creative process. It's a book that will change how you think about creativity.
Adam Grant - Organizational Psychologist
