Unlocking Creativity through Creative Teaming

In my role leading transformation in fashion, music and other creative industries, I’ve learned what it takes to lead teams that learn quickly, create dynamic, creative projects and do so while remaining agile. Here are four ways to unlock creativity while building a strong team and culture:

Allow time for relaxation and play. It may seem counterintuitive, but many of the best ideas are found in play. Lin-Manuel Miranda got the idea for Hamilton on vacation. He was immersed in a relaxing and fun activity and then had a moment where he thought about the Hamilton concept. Allowing for breaks where you can relax and play can unlock ideas that are waiting to be discovered. 

For example, organize occasional innovation retreats or off-site team-building events that focus on leisure and fun. These events can involve activities like nature walks, painting, or even a day at museum. These experiences can help teams bond and think outside the box.

Move & Groove. Another way to connect with your own creativity is to move your body in a way that feels good to you. Taking a walk, dancing or playing your favorite songs can help you to find creative solutions. Ask your team to contribute to a short playlist of songs that energize them. Ask them to take breaks during the day and play the songs from their playlist during their breaks. Ask them to take a walk, dance or simply connect with the music during one of these breaks rather than catch up on email or social media. 

For example, promote walking meetings as an alternative to traditional “sit-down” meetings. Encourage your team to discuss ideas and brainstorm solutions while taking a walk in a nearby park or even just around the office. The physical movement and change of scenery can stimulate creative thinking.

Challenge Yourself in Another Fun and Exciting Way. Write music; take an object and see how many things you can create with the object; or write a story around something you are feeling at the time. 

For example, have a "DIY Invention Day" where teams are given a set of objects and must work together to invent something imaginative or solve a fictitious problem. This can break the routine and encourage out-of-the-box thinking as well as bonding and creative collaboration.

Create Psychological Safety Over and Over Again. Amy Edmondson is the Novartis Professor of Leadership and Management at the Harvard Business School and studies psychological safety. She argues that all high-performing teams require psychological safety and that it must be reinforced. Build trust by asking team members what they need to meet their goals and to access support. 

For example, schedule regular brainstorming sessions focused on coming up with and sharing creative ideas and solutions. During these sessions, be sure to emphasize that there are no bad ideas, and all contributions are welcome. Encourage people to build on each other's ideas and avoid criticizing or dismissing suggestions. Create an environment where free thinking is not only accepted but celebrated and encouraged.

These four practices can support your teams in evolving in their creativity and connectedness.