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Interview Summary
“You don’t have to be a creative genius to innovate; you just need the courage to dream and a space to dream in.” – Mitch Marcello
As a Mission Strategist and Innovation Strategist for Fresh Expressions North America, Mitch’s work revolves around encouraging individuals and organizations to tap into their inherent creative potentials. Apart from his strategic roles, he is also the founder and director of AO Innovation and leads innovation efforts at his local church in Williamsport, Pennsylvania. With a fresh perspective on creativity, Mitch challenges the traditional notions that hold many back from embracing their imaginative capabilities.
In his enlightening discussion, Mitch Marcello addresses the concept of creativity not just as an innate talent or an artistic pursuit, but as a universal capability that can be nurtured and developed in everyone. Here’s a deeper look at the key ideas he explored:
Breaking Myths of Creativity
Mitch identifies and dismantles several myths about creativity that often hinder individuals from realizing their creative potential:
- Myth of Selective Creativity: One common misconception is that creativity is a gift bestowed only on a select few. Mitch refutes this by emphasizing that every person has creative potential, inherently linked to being created in the image of a creative God.
“Creativity is not a rare skill bestowed upon a lucky few; it is a universal gift that each of us can cultivate and expand.”
- Myth of Creativity as Art: While many associate creativity strictly with the arts, Mitch argues that it extends far beyond—into problem-solving, innovation, and day-to-day life management. Creativity is about generating new ideas and finding novel solutions in any context.
The Importance of Imagination
Mitch delves into the role of imagination as the foundation of creativity:
- Cultivating Imagination: Imagination isn’t something that diminishes with age; rather, it’s often suppressed through societal norms and educational systems that prioritize conformity over creativity. Mitch advocates for actively cultivating imagination by engaging with diverse sources of inspiration.
- Practical Application of Imagination: He suggests methods like changing daily routines, exploring new hobbies, and engaging with people who bring different perspectives. These activities stimulate the mind and encourage the formation of new, creative ideas.
Practical Steps to Foster Innovation
Mitch provides actionable advice to help individuals and organizations foster innovation:
- Active Pursuit of Inspiration: Rather than passively waiting for inspiration to strike, Mitch suggests actively seeking out experiences that challenge conventional thinking. This could be through travel, reading, or simply by trying new activities.
- Embracing Curiosity over Passion: Curiosity leads to exploration and discovery, which are critical for creative thinking. Mitch encourages embracing a mindset of learning and discovery, which can lead to the development of new passions.
Embrace curiosity—it’s the compass that leads us to our passions and unfolds the maps to innovation.
- Routine as the Enemy of Creativity: Breaking out of routine is essential for creativity. Mitch recommends small changes, like altering one’s route to work, to stimulate the brain and open up new ways of thinking.
Mitch Marcelo’s insights are not just theories but calls to action. He encourages us to give ourselves permission to dream and to set aside time to imagine what could be. As we step into new possibilities, Mitch’s words serve as a reminder that our ability to innovate and create is boundless, provided we allow ourselves the freedom to explore.
Reflection Questions
- What are some myths about creativity that you have believed?
- How can you incorporate imagination into your daily routine?
- When was the last time you took a risk to pursue a creative idea?
- How can you encourage creativity in others around you?
- How can your renewed focus on creativity impact your community or workplace?
