As female founders in South Africa, we have a unique perspective and experience that we can channel into innovative and creative solutions for our businesses.
But creativity is more than just artistic talent or flair. It’s the ability to generate fresh ideas and see things in a new light. It’s about thinking outside the box and challenging assumptions. And it’s not just for “creative” industries – every business can benefit from a creative approach.
So, how can we unleash our creativity and harness its power?
1. Cultivate curiosity
One of the most important aspects of creativity is curiosity. Curiosity is what leads us to question the way things are done and explore new ways of thinking. When we’re curious, we seek out new experiences and perspectives, which can help us generate fresh ideas.
So, cultivate your curiosity by asking questions, reading widely, and seeking out new experiences. Take a course in a subject you know nothing about, attend a conference or event, or strike up a conversation with someone from a different industry. Embrace the unknown and you might be surprised at what you find.
2. Break the rules
Sometimes, the best ideas come from breaking the rules or challenging the status quo. It’s about thinking differently, trying new things and pushing boundaries. Look for opportunities to do things differently, whether it’s experimenting with a new product feature or changing the way you market your business. Breaking the rules can be scary, but it can also be incredibly rewarding!
3. Collaborate
It’s true ladies, two heads are often better than one. What’s more, creativity thrives in collaboration! Working with others can spark new ideas and bring fresh perspectives to the table. Seek out opportunities to work with others, whether it’s partnering with another business or joining a mastermind group.
Brainstorming sessions can be especially effective for generating new ideas. When working with others, be open to different viewpoints and approaches. You never know what kind of magic can happen when you bring diverse perspectives together.
4. Embrace failure
Creativity involves taking risks and trying new things. It’s only natural that sometimes, things don’t work out the way we imagine. Don’t be discouraged by failure – it’s often a necessary step on the path to success!
When you embrace failure, you give yourself permission to experiment and take risks, which can lead to breakthrough ideas. Remember, failure is not the end – it’s an opportunity to learn and grow. Instead, use it as a springboard for new ideas and approaches.
5. Make time for play
Finally, one of the best ways to tap into your creativity is to make time for play! Engage in activities that bring you joy and allow your mind to wander. This can help you to tap into your subconscious and unlock new ideas. Whether it’s painting, dancing, or playing a game, make time for play in your life.
And don’t worry about being “productive” – play is valuable in and of itself. Who knows, you might be surprised at what kind of creative breakthroughs you experience!
By tapping into our fempreneur creativity, we can come up with innovative solutions, make our businesses stand out, and create unique and memorable experiences for our customers. Ready to unleash our creativity? Join the Xena community and share your progress with using the hashtag #unleashed!
