Beethoven, Van Gogh, Rembrandt, Dior, Charles Dickens, Wordsworth, Thomas Edison, Alexander Graham Bell – all of these names are familiar to most people. They are all known for their creativity – whether that was expressed through music, art, design, invention or literature.

Each one of these individuals, expressed and manifested the in-built gift of creation or power to create.

The Dictionary definition of the word “creative” is: 1.having the ability or power to create. 2. characterized by originality of thought or inventiveness; having or showing imagination; a creative mind. 3. designed to or tending to stimulate the imagination.

Within us then, is this marvelous gift or power to produce either wonderful works of art, beautiful words and music, inventions that help mankind in some way, or numerous other things. And that gift or ability resides within each one of us. Now at this moment in time, you might think you’re not a creative kind of person. But creativity as we’ve noted, takes many forms.

In my mind, creativity has to do with giving something to benefit others. Someone who writes a poem, a book, a song, or creates a piece of artwork, creates that in order to give pleasure to others. They themselves also gain from the process of creation too.

The person who does the creating, finds fulfillment and satisfaction in the process of creating. They also gain instant feedback from seeing the results of their creative nature.

For many, manifesting their creativity, can serve as a form of therapy for them. It can help them to relax or unwind. It’s an extension of their character and personality. In whatever form their creative nature reveals itself, it says something about the person.

So, take a look at your creative nature. How, during your life have you been a creative person? Are you currently in touch with your creative side? Have you in the past enjoyed creating music, poetry, stories etc, but have let it slip by? Why not rekindle that spirit of creation within you?

To be a creative person, does not mean we have to produce a masterpiece. If you have children, recall the first time your child attempted to draw a picture for you. It was far from a masterpiece, but it gave both you and your child pleasure! If you begin to nurture your creative nature, your level of skill and talent over time will grow and improve – and your sense of self worth too will expand.

The ability to create in its many forms, definitely serves a purpose. It serves to give pleasure and satisfaction to the producer as well as the admirer.

Give your imagination free reign, and you never know what might result. But if you never attempt, you’ll never know! Unleash the creator in you!

© 2008 by Ian Scott