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A Year of Creativity: 52 Smart Ideas for Boosting Creativity, Innovation and Inspiration at Work
A Year of Creativity demystifies what it means to be creative, showing how all of us need to exercise our creativity muscles if we are to meet the challenges of an uncertain world.
If you want to win at work, efficiency is not enough, strategy is not enough, and analysis is not enough. We live in times of increasing complexity and ambiguity; even businesses that have themselves been major disruptors fear major new disruption themselves. In response, leaders are battening down the the more uncertain the world, the more they retreat into stale, established patterns of behaviour.
This is a big mistake. The only way to secure competitive advantage is to ensure that creative thinking is driving your organization. It will enable workplace satisfaction, boost performance, and encourage new ideas throughout teams. To tackle our uncertain environment - and to win in the world of future business - we all need to get serious about creativity and the potential it can unleash.
The authors of Belonging have now written A Year of Creativity, which will make creativity accessible to everyone. In 52 lessons, it explores how to be creative (either individually or in groups and teams), how to nurture creativity, and how - as a result - to redefine yourself and your career.
If you want to win at work, efficiency is not enough, strategy is not enough, and analysis is not enough. We live in times of increasing complexity and ambiguity; even businesses that have themselves been major disruptors fear major new disruption themselves. In response, leaders are battening down the the more uncertain the world, the more they retreat into stale, established patterns of behaviour.
This is a big mistake. The only way to secure competitive advantage is to ensure that creative thinking is driving your organization. It will enable workplace satisfaction, boost performance, and encourage new ideas throughout teams. To tackle our uncertain environment - and to win in the world of future business - we all need to get serious about creativity and the potential it can unleash.
The authors of Belonging have now written A Year of Creativity, which will make creativity accessible to everyone. In 52 lessons, it explores how to be creative (either individually or in groups and teams), how to nurture creativity, and how - as a result - to redefine yourself and your career.
225 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 26, 2024
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Displaying 1 - 5 of 5 reviews
February 1, 2025
I actually really liked the cover for this book - also some good info nuggets
wasn't sure about the whole season stuff but eh it worked
tba bt later on
also liked the below part most, wouldn't see much of anything like it nowadays though:
In the early twentieth century, John Spedan Lewis revolutionized retail by transforming his family’s business, John Lewis, into one of the largest employee-owned organizations in the world. Driven by the belief that wealth should benefit all who help create it, he introduced a partnership model where employees became co-owners, profits were reinvested for their benefit, and principles like fair pay and well-being were prioritized.
notes:
- Most workplaces are built around logic, analytics, and structure – skills that keep operations running smoothly and decisions grounded in proven methods. But relying solely on these approaches risks stagnation. Without creativity – the kind of thinking that sparks innovation and unlocks transformative ideas – organizations can become trapped in cycles of incremental improvement, unaware of the potential for radical change.
- the competitive edge lies in what can’t be automated: human ingenuity and the ability to connect disparate ideas into something groundbreaking. Creativity fuels that edge, enabling you to rethink problems, reimagine possibilities etc
- Creativity is a skill everyone possesses, but many organizations fail to recognize its value. Instead, they prioritize stability, efficiency, and incremental improvements, missing opportunities for transformative innovation. Studies show that while most employees view creativity as essential, few feel empowered to contribute ideas in workplaces dominated by fear of failure or hierarchical decision-making. To unlock your organization’s creative potential, you must establish an environment where fresh ideas are not only encouraged but are viewed as a core business strategy.
- Aligning creativity with business objectives is essential. Innovation should serve a purpose: solving real problems, addressing customer needs, or exploring new opportunities.
- To embed creativity, begin by assessing your team. Balance left-brain thinkers, who excel at logic and analysis, with right-brain individuals, who bring intuition and daring ideas. Cultivate psychological safety, where employees feel comfortable taking risks and challenging norms without fear of criticism. Leaders play a crucial role by modeling vulnerability, admitting mistakes, and framing failures as learning opportunity
- Prepare yourself and your team for creativity by embracing activities that broaden perspectives. Expose yourself to new experiences, whether through engaging with unfamiliar content, seeking diverse opinions, or stepping out of your comfort zone.
- Creativity works best when seen as an ongoing process rather than an isolated effort.
- Sometimes, change requires a revolution. Break free from routines by rethinking how and where collaboration happens. Rotate leadership roles, bring together unlikely teams, or use techniques like the random link – connecting an unrelated object to your challenge – to spark unconventional solutions. Bold, disruptive thinking can be the foundation for breakthroughs.
- Invite fresh perspectives by including inexperienced team members or individuals from outside your industry. Their unfiltered ideas can challenge assumptions and inspire creative solutions.
- Group contributions into Pause, Polish, or Perfect categories to encourage exploration without shutting down creativity. Once ideas are planted, give them time to grow.
- Whether your goal is fostering customer trust or designing revolutionary products, clarity of purpose ensures your efforts are meaningful.
- Nobel laureate Daniel Kahneman’s research shows that while we think we make decisions rationally, most choices come from a deeper, intuitive process. Sometimes, the best path forward doesn’t come from a spreadsheet but from that unshakable feeling that something is right. Balance data with instinct, and don’t hesitate to lean into what feels true.
- Change the narrative, and you’ll change the energy in the room.
- Revisiting the past can also spark innovation. Sometimes, an old idea – one that didn’t quite fit before – finds its moment in a new context. Human nature hasn’t changed much, and what resonated years ago might resonate again if adapted thoughtfully.
- finally, challenge yourself to think differently. Start at the end or in the middle of a project to reframe solutions. Ask “stupid” questions to uncover what’s missing. Or consider what a competitor would do to outsmart your strategies and preempt their next move.
- Organizations often struggle with change because they focus on the latest trends instead of fixing systemic issues.
- big changes don’t always require big budgets. Quick wins – achievable milestones within a defined timeline – build momentum and confidence. Teams should start small, achieve measurable results, and celebrate progress. Pushing ideas further than feels comfortable often leads to breakthroughs.
other:
- In 2010, the UK government’s digital services were deemed outdated and ineffective. Websites operated in silos, user experiences were fragmented, and millions of pages lacked coordination. Within six years, the centralized GOV.UK platform emerged as a global leader in digital governance, simplifying services and saving billions. This transformation didn’t just involve technology; it was about rethinking systems, culture, and purpose – a process emblematic of what it takes to overcome the challenges of winter: when progress feels blocked, and the need for change is urgent.
wasn't sure about the whole season stuff but eh it worked
tba bt later on
also liked the below part most, wouldn't see much of anything like it nowadays though:
In the early twentieth century, John Spedan Lewis revolutionized retail by transforming his family’s business, John Lewis, into one of the largest employee-owned organizations in the world. Driven by the belief that wealth should benefit all who help create it, he introduced a partnership model where employees became co-owners, profits were reinvested for their benefit, and principles like fair pay and well-being were prioritized.
notes:
- Most workplaces are built around logic, analytics, and structure – skills that keep operations running smoothly and decisions grounded in proven methods. But relying solely on these approaches risks stagnation. Without creativity – the kind of thinking that sparks innovation and unlocks transformative ideas – organizations can become trapped in cycles of incremental improvement, unaware of the potential for radical change.
- the competitive edge lies in what can’t be automated: human ingenuity and the ability to connect disparate ideas into something groundbreaking. Creativity fuels that edge, enabling you to rethink problems, reimagine possibilities etc
- Creativity is a skill everyone possesses, but many organizations fail to recognize its value. Instead, they prioritize stability, efficiency, and incremental improvements, missing opportunities for transformative innovation. Studies show that while most employees view creativity as essential, few feel empowered to contribute ideas in workplaces dominated by fear of failure or hierarchical decision-making. To unlock your organization’s creative potential, you must establish an environment where fresh ideas are not only encouraged but are viewed as a core business strategy.
- Aligning creativity with business objectives is essential. Innovation should serve a purpose: solving real problems, addressing customer needs, or exploring new opportunities.
- To embed creativity, begin by assessing your team. Balance left-brain thinkers, who excel at logic and analysis, with right-brain individuals, who bring intuition and daring ideas. Cultivate psychological safety, where employees feel comfortable taking risks and challenging norms without fear of criticism. Leaders play a crucial role by modeling vulnerability, admitting mistakes, and framing failures as learning opportunity
- Prepare yourself and your team for creativity by embracing activities that broaden perspectives. Expose yourself to new experiences, whether through engaging with unfamiliar content, seeking diverse opinions, or stepping out of your comfort zone.
- Creativity works best when seen as an ongoing process rather than an isolated effort.
- Sometimes, change requires a revolution. Break free from routines by rethinking how and where collaboration happens. Rotate leadership roles, bring together unlikely teams, or use techniques like the random link – connecting an unrelated object to your challenge – to spark unconventional solutions. Bold, disruptive thinking can be the foundation for breakthroughs.
- Invite fresh perspectives by including inexperienced team members or individuals from outside your industry. Their unfiltered ideas can challenge assumptions and inspire creative solutions.
- Group contributions into Pause, Polish, or Perfect categories to encourage exploration without shutting down creativity. Once ideas are planted, give them time to grow.
- Whether your goal is fostering customer trust or designing revolutionary products, clarity of purpose ensures your efforts are meaningful.
- Nobel laureate Daniel Kahneman’s research shows that while we think we make decisions rationally, most choices come from a deeper, intuitive process. Sometimes, the best path forward doesn’t come from a spreadsheet but from that unshakable feeling that something is right. Balance data with instinct, and don’t hesitate to lean into what feels true.
- Change the narrative, and you’ll change the energy in the room.
- Revisiting the past can also spark innovation. Sometimes, an old idea – one that didn’t quite fit before – finds its moment in a new context. Human nature hasn’t changed much, and what resonated years ago might resonate again if adapted thoughtfully.
- finally, challenge yourself to think differently. Start at the end or in the middle of a project to reframe solutions. Ask “stupid” questions to uncover what’s missing. Or consider what a competitor would do to outsmart your strategies and preempt their next move.
- Organizations often struggle with change because they focus on the latest trends instead of fixing systemic issues.
- big changes don’t always require big budgets. Quick wins – achievable milestones within a defined timeline – build momentum and confidence. Teams should start small, achieve measurable results, and celebrate progress. Pushing ideas further than feels comfortable often leads to breakthroughs.
other:
- In 2010, the UK government’s digital services were deemed outdated and ineffective. Websites operated in silos, user experiences were fragmented, and millions of pages lacked coordination. Within six years, the centralized GOV.UK platform emerged as a global leader in digital governance, simplifying services and saving billions. This transformation didn’t just involve technology; it was about rethinking systems, culture, and purpose – a process emblematic of what it takes to overcome the challenges of winter: when progress feels blocked, and the need for change is urgent.
February 2, 2025
Creativity is often seen as an elusive trait possessed by a few gifted individuals, but in reality, it is an innate ability that can be cultivated and harnessed by anyone. In "A Year of Creativity: 52 Smart Ideas for Boosting Creativity, Innovation and Inspiration at Work", Kathryn Jacob and Sue Unerman explore how creativity is essential for success in an ever-changing world. While many workplaces rely heavily on logic, efficiency, and structure to maintain stability, this mindset can lead to stagnation. Without fresh ideas and the willingness to challenge conventions, businesses risk being left behind. In contrast, creativity drives innovation and allows individuals and organizations to break free from limitations, rethink problems, and discover transformative solutions. At a time when artificial intelligence is automating many tasks, human ingenuity remains the most valuable asset. This book provides practical strategies for fostering creativity, encouraging bold thinking, and embracing the unexpected to unlock success.
In a rapidly evolving world, creativity is more than just a desirable skill—it is a necessity. The book opens with an example from football: Barcelona’s famous team, known for its precise, possession-based play, failed to adapt during a decisive match against Chelsea and lost. This illustrates a key lesson for businesses—clinging to familiar strategies in a dynamic environment can lead to failure. Organizations that prioritize stability over innovation often miss opportunities for growth, as employees feel restricted by rigid structures and the fear of failure. To counter this, workplaces must create environments where creativity is valued and risks are encouraged. However, creativity should not be aimless. It must be aligned with clear business objectives to ensure its impact. For example, chef Heston Blumenthal’s unusual snail ice cream succeeded not because of its novelty alone but because it resonated with his adventurous clientele. Leaders play a crucial role in shaping a creative culture by fostering psychological safety, embracing diverse perspectives, and allowing experimentation.
Creativity follows a cyclical process, much like the changing seasons. The book outlines a framework based on this idea, beginning with spring—the season of renewal and bold change. This phase is about challenging traditions and welcoming radical transformation. A striking example is McDonald's, which faced declining public perception in the early 2000s due to health concerns. Instead of making small adjustments, the company reinvented itself by introducing healthier options, localizing its menu, and shifting its marketing strategy. This demonstrates that significant change is often necessary to remain competitive. Businesses that resist change risk becoming obsolete, while those that push boundaries can reshape their industries. In music, innovations such as guitar distortion and autotune originated from unintended effects that were later embraced to revolutionize entire genres. Similarly, successful businesses often find breakthroughs by testing unconventional ideas and pushing beyond the status quo. To foster bold thinking, organizations can mix teams, bring in fresh voices, or use creative exercises that challenge conventional wisdom. A crucial part of this phase is allowing time for ideas to develop rather than dismissing them prematurely.
After the initial burst of creative energy in spring, the summer phase focuses on nurturing ideas and turning them into actionable innovations. One of the key elements of this stage is trusting intuition. While data-driven decision-making is valuable, some of the greatest innovations stem from gut instincts. Howard Schultz’s transformation of Starbucks into a community-driven coffee experience exemplifies this. He saw the potential in a concept that others dismissed and pursued it relentlessly until it became a global success. Similarly, reframing problems in different language can shift perspectives and reveal new solutions. Rather than seeing a challenge as a crisis, viewing it as an opportunity for reinvention can inspire more optimistic and forward-thinking responses. Breaking the rules can also lead to creative breakthroughs. Companies that challenge industry norms, allow unconventional ideas to flourish, and create spaces for diverse voices often uncover innovative solutions. At the same time, the importance of taking breaks should not be underestimated. Many creative insights arise during moments of idleness when the mind is free to wander. Revisiting past ideas that were once dismissed can also provide unexpected inspiration, as their relevance may shift with changing circumstances.
As summer gives way to autumn, the focus shifts to refining ideas and redefining success. Creativity alone is not enough; it must be integrated into the organization’s core strategies. John Spedan Lewis, founder of the employee-owned John Lewis Partnership, revolutionized retail by prioritizing worker well-being and shared profits. His approach demonstrated that rethinking business structures can lead to lasting success. Organizations that embrace transformation must be willing to let go of outdated practices and redefine their goals. Focusing on medium-term objectives rather than short-term profits or distant future plans allows teams to remain adaptable while making meaningful progress. Visibility is also important—leveraging trends, engaging with communities, and building connections can amplify ideas and drive momentum. A thriving creative culture is built on collaboration, generosity, and shared passion. Companies that prioritize employee happiness and create spaces for open dialogue foster a culture where creativity can flourish. At this stage, challenging established boundaries is crucial. Questioning industry norms and reconsidering long-held assumptions can unlock new opportunities that might otherwise go unnoticed.
Finally, winter represents a time of reinvention and preparation for future growth. Transformation is not just about chasing new trends but about fundamentally reshaping systems to remove obstacles and create sustainable change. The UK government’s overhaul of its outdated digital services exemplifies this principle. By unifying fragmented systems and prioritizing user-friendly solutions, it achieved a dramatic improvement in efficiency and accessibility. This kind of transformation requires organizations to address foundational weaknesses rather than simply applying surface-level fixes. Sometimes, progress requires letting go of familiar but ineffective methods. Sticking with outdated systems out of habit can hinder innovation. Instead, businesses should be willing to challenge conventions, experiment with bold changes, and embrace discomfort as part of the creative process. Even in times of stagnation, quick wins—small, achievable milestones—can build momentum and pave the way for larger breakthroughs. Ultimately, winter is about laying the groundwork for renewal. By stripping away excess, focusing on essential priorities, and embracing calculated risks, organizations can set themselves up for success in the seasons ahead.
The central message of "A Year of Creativity" is that creativity is not a one-time effort but an ongoing process that requires courage, adaptability, and persistence. Businesses and individuals that embrace creativity as a core value will be better equipped to navigate uncertainty, challenge outdated thinking, and drive meaningful change. By understanding the natural rhythms of creativity—from bold beginnings to thoughtful refinement—organizations can harness innovation to solve complex problems, inspire teams, and shape the future. Whether it’s by challenging assumptions, experimenting with unconventional ideas, or trusting intuitive insights, embracing creativity can lead to breakthroughs that redefine industries. The key is to view creativity not as an abstract concept but as a practical tool for continuous improvement and transformation.
In a rapidly evolving world, creativity is more than just a desirable skill—it is a necessity. The book opens with an example from football: Barcelona’s famous team, known for its precise, possession-based play, failed to adapt during a decisive match against Chelsea and lost. This illustrates a key lesson for businesses—clinging to familiar strategies in a dynamic environment can lead to failure. Organizations that prioritize stability over innovation often miss opportunities for growth, as employees feel restricted by rigid structures and the fear of failure. To counter this, workplaces must create environments where creativity is valued and risks are encouraged. However, creativity should not be aimless. It must be aligned with clear business objectives to ensure its impact. For example, chef Heston Blumenthal’s unusual snail ice cream succeeded not because of its novelty alone but because it resonated with his adventurous clientele. Leaders play a crucial role in shaping a creative culture by fostering psychological safety, embracing diverse perspectives, and allowing experimentation.
Creativity follows a cyclical process, much like the changing seasons. The book outlines a framework based on this idea, beginning with spring—the season of renewal and bold change. This phase is about challenging traditions and welcoming radical transformation. A striking example is McDonald's, which faced declining public perception in the early 2000s due to health concerns. Instead of making small adjustments, the company reinvented itself by introducing healthier options, localizing its menu, and shifting its marketing strategy. This demonstrates that significant change is often necessary to remain competitive. Businesses that resist change risk becoming obsolete, while those that push boundaries can reshape their industries. In music, innovations such as guitar distortion and autotune originated from unintended effects that were later embraced to revolutionize entire genres. Similarly, successful businesses often find breakthroughs by testing unconventional ideas and pushing beyond the status quo. To foster bold thinking, organizations can mix teams, bring in fresh voices, or use creative exercises that challenge conventional wisdom. A crucial part of this phase is allowing time for ideas to develop rather than dismissing them prematurely.
After the initial burst of creative energy in spring, the summer phase focuses on nurturing ideas and turning them into actionable innovations. One of the key elements of this stage is trusting intuition. While data-driven decision-making is valuable, some of the greatest innovations stem from gut instincts. Howard Schultz’s transformation of Starbucks into a community-driven coffee experience exemplifies this. He saw the potential in a concept that others dismissed and pursued it relentlessly until it became a global success. Similarly, reframing problems in different language can shift perspectives and reveal new solutions. Rather than seeing a challenge as a crisis, viewing it as an opportunity for reinvention can inspire more optimistic and forward-thinking responses. Breaking the rules can also lead to creative breakthroughs. Companies that challenge industry norms, allow unconventional ideas to flourish, and create spaces for diverse voices often uncover innovative solutions. At the same time, the importance of taking breaks should not be underestimated. Many creative insights arise during moments of idleness when the mind is free to wander. Revisiting past ideas that were once dismissed can also provide unexpected inspiration, as their relevance may shift with changing circumstances.
As summer gives way to autumn, the focus shifts to refining ideas and redefining success. Creativity alone is not enough; it must be integrated into the organization’s core strategies. John Spedan Lewis, founder of the employee-owned John Lewis Partnership, revolutionized retail by prioritizing worker well-being and shared profits. His approach demonstrated that rethinking business structures can lead to lasting success. Organizations that embrace transformation must be willing to let go of outdated practices and redefine their goals. Focusing on medium-term objectives rather than short-term profits or distant future plans allows teams to remain adaptable while making meaningful progress. Visibility is also important—leveraging trends, engaging with communities, and building connections can amplify ideas and drive momentum. A thriving creative culture is built on collaboration, generosity, and shared passion. Companies that prioritize employee happiness and create spaces for open dialogue foster a culture where creativity can flourish. At this stage, challenging established boundaries is crucial. Questioning industry norms and reconsidering long-held assumptions can unlock new opportunities that might otherwise go unnoticed.
Finally, winter represents a time of reinvention and preparation for future growth. Transformation is not just about chasing new trends but about fundamentally reshaping systems to remove obstacles and create sustainable change. The UK government’s overhaul of its outdated digital services exemplifies this principle. By unifying fragmented systems and prioritizing user-friendly solutions, it achieved a dramatic improvement in efficiency and accessibility. This kind of transformation requires organizations to address foundational weaknesses rather than simply applying surface-level fixes. Sometimes, progress requires letting go of familiar but ineffective methods. Sticking with outdated systems out of habit can hinder innovation. Instead, businesses should be willing to challenge conventions, experiment with bold changes, and embrace discomfort as part of the creative process. Even in times of stagnation, quick wins—small, achievable milestones—can build momentum and pave the way for larger breakthroughs. Ultimately, winter is about laying the groundwork for renewal. By stripping away excess, focusing on essential priorities, and embracing calculated risks, organizations can set themselves up for success in the seasons ahead.
The central message of "A Year of Creativity" is that creativity is not a one-time effort but an ongoing process that requires courage, adaptability, and persistence. Businesses and individuals that embrace creativity as a core value will be better equipped to navigate uncertainty, challenge outdated thinking, and drive meaningful change. By understanding the natural rhythms of creativity—from bold beginnings to thoughtful refinement—organizations can harness innovation to solve complex problems, inspire teams, and shape the future. Whether it’s by challenging assumptions, experimenting with unconventional ideas, or trusting intuitive insights, embracing creativity can lead to breakthroughs that redefine industries. The key is to view creativity not as an abstract concept but as a practical tool for continuous improvement and transformation.
February 4, 2025
BOOK SUMMARY
A Year of Creativity by Dr. Rhea Davenport is a practical guide to sparking innovation and creative thinking at work. The book offers 52 strategies—one for each week of the year—to help individuals and teams break out of routine thought patterns, overcome creative blocks, and build habits that lead to fresh ideas. With a mix of exercises, thought-provoking questions, and real-world examples, it’s a hands-on approach to making creativity a daily practice.
Four Fundamental Creativity Principles and Tips
1. Creativity is a Skill: Regular practice, not innate talent, is the key to developing creativity.
2. Use Varied Techniques: Experimenting with diverse methods, from brainstorming to mindfulness, enhances creative thinking.
3. Collaboration Fuels Innovation: Engaging different perspectives strengthens idea generation and teamwork.
4. Embrace Risk and Playfulness: Taking creative risks and incorporating play can unlock new and unconventional solutions.
My 5 Favorite Creative Strategies
As someone who works in instructional design, I know how easy it is to fall into predictable workflows—designing courses in the same way, using familiar tools, and sticking to what has worked before. That’s why I’m drawn to these five strategies from the book, which I think could shake up my creative process:
1. Reverse Thinking
Instead of brainstorming solutions in the usual way, this strategy flips the problem on its head. Rather than asking, “How can we make our course more engaging?” I’d ask, “How could we make it as boring as possible?” It sounds counterintuitive, but this approach exposes assumptions and helps uncover fresh ideas.
2. The 30-Circle Challenge
This exercise challenges you to take a sheet of paper with 30 blank circles and turn as many as possible into recognizable objects within a short time limit. It forces quick thinking and helps bypass perfectionism—a useful exercise for getting unstuck when brainstorming new course designs.
3. Mind Mapping for Innovation
Mind mapping is something I already use, but this book reminded me how valuable it is for breaking down complex problems. Instead of listing ideas linearly, this approach visually connects concepts in unexpected ways, which is great for designing interactive learning experiences.
4. The "What If?" Exercise
This one’s all about asking bold questions: “What if our online courses had no videos?” or “What if students could design their own learning paths?” Questions like these challenge assumptions and spark unconventional solutions.
5. The Daily Curiosity Journal
This strategy is about writing down observations, questions, and ideas every day—kind of like a personal creativity bank. I love the idea of making curiosity a habit rather than waiting for inspiration to strike.
PERSONAL BOOK REVIEW
I’ve always loved creative problem-solving. One of my favorite experiences was having a “creative-off” with a friend, where we’d design a product based on a weekly theme and exchange it as a gift. But despite my focus on creativity, my work can sometimes feel constrained by established processes, deadlines, and the need to align with team workflows. When designing courses, I often start with familiar frameworks and make small adjustments rather than stepping back to consider a completely new approach—like designing a course entirely for a mobile-first experience.
This book is a great reminder that creativity isn’t just about making things look better or adding more features; it’s about rethinking the entire process. I’m excited to try strategies like Reverse Thinking and the "What If?" Exercise to challenge my approach to course design. Who knows what ideas might emerge? I’ve always believed creativity is a skill that needs regular exercise—this book just gave me more ways to practice.
A Year of Creativity by Dr. Rhea Davenport is a practical guide to sparking innovation and creative thinking at work. The book offers 52 strategies—one for each week of the year—to help individuals and teams break out of routine thought patterns, overcome creative blocks, and build habits that lead to fresh ideas. With a mix of exercises, thought-provoking questions, and real-world examples, it’s a hands-on approach to making creativity a daily practice.
Four Fundamental Creativity Principles and Tips
1. Creativity is a Skill: Regular practice, not innate talent, is the key to developing creativity.
2. Use Varied Techniques: Experimenting with diverse methods, from brainstorming to mindfulness, enhances creative thinking.
3. Collaboration Fuels Innovation: Engaging different perspectives strengthens idea generation and teamwork.
4. Embrace Risk and Playfulness: Taking creative risks and incorporating play can unlock new and unconventional solutions.
My 5 Favorite Creative Strategies
As someone who works in instructional design, I know how easy it is to fall into predictable workflows—designing courses in the same way, using familiar tools, and sticking to what has worked before. That’s why I’m drawn to these five strategies from the book, which I think could shake up my creative process:
1. Reverse Thinking
Instead of brainstorming solutions in the usual way, this strategy flips the problem on its head. Rather than asking, “How can we make our course more engaging?” I’d ask, “How could we make it as boring as possible?” It sounds counterintuitive, but this approach exposes assumptions and helps uncover fresh ideas.
2. The 30-Circle Challenge
This exercise challenges you to take a sheet of paper with 30 blank circles and turn as many as possible into recognizable objects within a short time limit. It forces quick thinking and helps bypass perfectionism—a useful exercise for getting unstuck when brainstorming new course designs.
3. Mind Mapping for Innovation
Mind mapping is something I already use, but this book reminded me how valuable it is for breaking down complex problems. Instead of listing ideas linearly, this approach visually connects concepts in unexpected ways, which is great for designing interactive learning experiences.
4. The "What If?" Exercise
This one’s all about asking bold questions: “What if our online courses had no videos?” or “What if students could design their own learning paths?” Questions like these challenge assumptions and spark unconventional solutions.
5. The Daily Curiosity Journal
This strategy is about writing down observations, questions, and ideas every day—kind of like a personal creativity bank. I love the idea of making curiosity a habit rather than waiting for inspiration to strike.
PERSONAL BOOK REVIEW
I’ve always loved creative problem-solving. One of my favorite experiences was having a “creative-off” with a friend, where we’d design a product based on a weekly theme and exchange it as a gift. But despite my focus on creativity, my work can sometimes feel constrained by established processes, deadlines, and the need to align with team workflows. When designing courses, I often start with familiar frameworks and make small adjustments rather than stepping back to consider a completely new approach—like designing a course entirely for a mobile-first experience.
This book is a great reminder that creativity isn’t just about making things look better or adding more features; it’s about rethinking the entire process. I’m excited to try strategies like Reverse Thinking and the "What If?" Exercise to challenge my approach to course design. Who knows what ideas might emerge? I’ve always believed creativity is a skill that needs regular exercise—this book just gave me more ways to practice.
April 9, 2026
This book has 52 weekly chapters, each with an approach for being creative. I read (very nearly) one per week in 2025. They remind me somewhat of my Thinking Cards, and prompted me to finally get a set of Brian Eno's Oblique Strategies as well. The biggest concept for all of these is just to do something different, to get out of your usual groove, to try to be creative. It's nice that creativity can respond to effort.
What even is creativity? I think it's to do with taking steps that other people haven't taken, going somewhere others haven't gone. Taking more steps, taking steps that other people haven't yet or couldn't take, maybe using knowledge or experiences unique to you. And then you get to that result, that success, that product that stands on its own, and if you don't show the steps that led to it, it looks like something that just appeared out of the blue.
What even is creativity? I think it's to do with taking steps that other people haven't taken, going somewhere others haven't gone. Taking more steps, taking steps that other people haven't yet or couldn't take, maybe using knowledge or experiences unique to you. And then you get to that result, that success, that product that stands on its own, and if you don't show the steps that led to it, it looks like something that just appeared out of the blue.
March 15, 2026
I'v read a few business books and this is at best mediorce. I see some of he communications excercises as ok but not a book I'll be carrying around with me.
Displaying 1 - 5 of 5 reviews