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How to Use Your Creativity Strategically

Strategic Creativity Resonates With Others

Creative people are typically curious, imaginative, and expressive. However, depending on their ability to read an audience, they can get into trouble. Some people might interpret their expressiveness as risky and divisive, which is why it’s important to be strategic in creative pursuits. Creativity remains a top skill in the eyes of leaders everywhere. For example, our survey found that creativity is a favored personality trait in online portfolios, college resumes, admissions essays, and online presences for students applying to college admissions. Similarly, the World Economic Forum January 2016 survey found that the ability to think creativity will be one of the most important work skills by 2020 and this is particularly true for high-performing leaders. Learn how to feed your creativity by getting your thoughts out on paper. Start a journal to reflect on your day. The practice of writing, distilling information, and expressing yourself is a great way to get your creative muscles working. Then, practice expressing yourself to different audiences by creating content on a blog or podcast. You can even make it fun by covering topics you love. Outgoingness Boosts Your Social Capital

Being socially confident and building relationships in social settings is where extroverts thrive. In fact, extroversion is a great asset in several areas of life. The KudosWall survey found that 71 percent of admissions professionals say they’re more likely to accept applicants who convey an outgoing, friendly personality than someone who is reserved. Also, a January 2016 study published in the Journal of Organizational Behavior found that extroverts tend to energize the group when team members are getting along. When you demonstrate social capital and engage well with others, you make a great impression. However, introverts find outgoingness challenging because social situations often drain their energy. Fortunately, this personality trait can be learned. Shift your focus from yourself to others around you. When you’re worried about how you present yourself, it takes you out of the moment. Instead, concentrate on getting to know people in your social setting. Start small by going to new events with people you know. Intelligence gets you far, but these personality traits bring you the extra mile. If you already possess them, double down. But if they don’t come naturally, start practicing. This shift in your behavior will lead to big success in all aspects of your life.