Adding creativity into coaching

Adding creativity into coaching 

Creativity is a phenomenon whereby something somehow new and somehow valuable is formed.

The dictionary definition of creativity is:

“The use of imagination or original ideas to create something; inventiveness.”

The thing being created may be intangible like ideas, a scientific theory, a musical composition, or even a joke. They may also be physical objects like an invention, a printed literary work, or a painting.

Be free to have fun

Within neuroscience we are strongly encouraged to cultivate the ability to have fun and play. This approach to life has been shown to promote neurogenesis that helps to keep the brain younger for longer. However, we do make a distinction between play and fun, because a person having fun is not following any rules and has the freedom to do the things they enjoy.

A person playing a game or trying out a new exercise in a coaching session or at home can still have fun, but they will be following a set of rules and will therefore have some boundaries in which to operate. Our idea of adding creativity into coaching is to be open to try new things and tap into the inner child so both you and your clients are free to escape the real-world and explore a creative space together.

Tools to develop creativity

When adding creativity into coaching or developing our creativity, we normally need to prioritize the experience over the tangible results. The absence of a goal can sometimes be an essential condition, but may feel a little alien. Above all this is about simply having the experience, finding the fun in life or taking the time out so you can marvel at the unexpected.

A person who truly cultivates their creativity, even in small doses will:

• Be more open, joyful and optimistic
• Find it easier to adapt when faced with change
• Grow confidence in their ability to find a solution

Being open to new experiences will involve having a high degree of openness when it comes to concepts, beliefs, perceptions and assumptions. It helps us tolerate ambiguity and involves being able to accept a lot of conflicting information without the need to ultimately close down the experience. This complete openness to be in the moment and experience what is happening right now, will undoubtedly be one of the conditions if you may want to gain access to through creativity.

Creativity does not come easily to everybody

There may be situations where you as a coach feel a particular coaching tool or technique would work well, however it is always important to note that not every client will be willing to try something different. It is always helpful to ask for the client’s permission to introduce something new and give them a choice. That way, the client remains in control and is able to decide what would work best for them. Remember, being creative does not come easily to everybody, so adding creativity into coaching may not work for everybody.

But all of us, no matter what our line of business or where we live, will at some point be required to adapt and adjust to new situations. So as a coach, cultivating your own creativity means giving yourself the opportunity to always stay curious and alert. So, when a strange idea springs to mind or something unusual happens, try giving the door a gentle nudge to open it a little more, instead of letting it slam shut.