Unlocking the Power of Imagination in the Workplace
“If you can dream it, you can do it.” – Walt Disney
I have been studying imagination and creativity for over a decade now, and I’ve learned that IMAGINATION is the precursor of all innovation. Yet, suggesting that an adult has a great imagination is almost an insult. It insinuates that people have their heads in the clouds, foster outlandish ideas, or are not connected to reality. Why is this?
Why We Suppress Imagination
One reason is that we are taught early on to focus, stop daydreaming, and keep creativity locked for specific times and classes. At work, unless there is a culture or specific time allotted to encourage imagination to flourish, we go through the motions of the day. Even our language changes. As we grow older, we don’t talk about imagination. We describe adults as “visionaries” or “innovators” but leave imagination behind.
The Challenge of Being a Visionary
The challenge is that not everyone can see themselves as a visionary. It’s not hard, though, to help people reconnect with their imagination. This helps in several ways:
- 👩💼 Personal Growth: Their personal sense of self-expression and potential for growth is enhanced.
- 💼 Work Performance: They become more solution-focused problem solvers, boosting their work performance.
- 🌍 Community Impact: They help create a new vision for their communities, contributing positively to society.
How Employers Can Encourage Imagination
We all could use tapping into our imagination as adults. Employers can help by:
- ✨ Creating a Safe Space for Ideas: Encourage an environment where ideas are welcomed and valued without judgment.
- ⏳ Allocating Time for Creative Thinking: Dedicate specific times for employees to brainstorm and explore new ideas.
- 📖 Encouraging Learning and Exploration: Promote continuous learning and curiosity to fuel creative thinking.
- 🚀 Embracing and Rewarding Innovative Ideas: Recognize and reward employees for their innovative contributions.
- 🤝 Providing Time to Play: Allow for playful activities that stimulate creativity and teamwork.
Launching the Art of Imagination Course
We are excited to announce the launch of our Art of Imagination course this fall. This course is designed to help individuals and teams unlock their creative potential and drive innovation within their organizations.
Conclusion
Unlocking the power of imagination can transform not just individual employees but entire organizations. By creating an environment that encourages creativity, employers can foster a culture of innovation and continuous improvement.
How could unlocking your employees’ imagination help you? Learn how we could help!
Theresa Bailey is a bestselling author and exclusive North American provider of PlayDoh Power Solutions Corporate Training
