Creativity Isn’t Talent — It’s Play, Humour, and Practice
It started with a quote from John Cleese:
“Creativity is not a talent. It is a way of operating”.
It got me thinking…
I am accustomed to more flowery and intangible statements about creativity, but this sums the importance of creativity in an operational space succinctly. However, I’ve found that it is often underestimated and misunderstood.
I stumbled upon this excellent time-travelling observation from 1991 on management and creativity. He articulates the creative journey and the importance of the creative process within operational management.
He then goes on to state:
"People at work operate in one of two modes: open and closed. Creativity can not happen in the closed mode, which is where we usually live. The closed mode is important for execution, once you've decided on a path in the open mode." John Cleese
Why is an open mode important?
The concept of open and closed modes isn’t just useful for personal creativity—it’s a significant aspect of creative leadership. I’ve learned that leading creatively means knowing when to switch gears. Most of us are rewarded for being in the closed mode—getting things done, making quick decisions, staying on task. However, if we never make space for open-mindedness, we miss out on the deeper thinking and fresh ideas that real change and innovation require.
I’ve noticed this in my own work: when I try to push through a creative block in closed mode, everything feels forced. However, when I allow space to pause, even just for a short walk (which is mainly a cleaning break for me) or some unstructured thinking time, clarity and better ideas usually follow. The open mode can feel uncomfortable or even “unproductive” at first, but it’s exactly where we need to go if we want to lead in a way that invites curiosity, collaboration, and something genuinely new.
So, how can you get into an open mode?
Some food for thought… Are you in the closed mode?
There are certain things you can do to get yourself into the open mode.
You'll need…
Space
Create a physical separation from the demands that keep you in the closed mode.
"You can't become playful and therefore creative if you're under your usual pressures."
How to do it: Find a quiet room, go for a walk, or change your environment. Even turning off notifications can help you mentally step away from daily demands.
Try this: Set up a corner of your room or workspace as your “creative zone”—free of clutter and obligation.
Time (no, not a continuum)
Create that space for a specific, predetermined period.
"It's not enough to create space; you have to create your space for a specific period of time."
How to do it (Structure It): Block out 30–60 minutes on your calendar as protected time just for creative thinking or problem-solving. Treat it like a non-negotiable meeting.
Try this: Schedule a weekly “creative hour” with no agenda—just space to think or explore.
Time (again)
Take the time to persevere past the discomfort that comes from not having a solution yet (ask yourself "when does this decision have to be made?").
"Giving your mind as long as possible to come up with something original"
How to do it (Wandering): Let yourself sit with a problem for longer than feels comfortable. Don’t rush the answer—stay curious.
Try this: When stuck, pause and ask, “What else could this be?” or “What haven’t I tried yet?”
Confidence
Don't be afraid that moving in some direction will be "wrong" ("you can't be spontaneous with reason"); while you're being creative, there is no "wrong".
"Nothing will stop you being creative so effectively as the fear of making a mistake."
How to do it: Let go of the need to be right. Jot down every idea, even the “bad” ones—creativity often hides inside them.
Try this: Set a timer for 5 minutes and write without stopping or judging your thoughts.
Humour
Humour is an essential part of spontaneity and playfulness and doesn't remove from the seriousness of the work.
“The main evolutionary significance of humour is that it gets us from the closed mode to the open mode quicker than anything else.”
How to do it: Lighten the mood. Watch something funny, tell a joke, or let yourself be silly before starting. It breaks the tension and frees your mind.
Try this: Start a brainstorming session with a fun “what if” scenario or a cartoon that reflects your topic.
Do you struggle with creating openness in your working process? Are you feeling the need to unleash your creativity in a friendly and open space? Feel free to comment, connect, book a call or email me.
At Dynamic Potential Academy, we help leaders, learners, and teams turn insight into action — with practical training that blends emotional intelligence, neuroscience, and creative strategy.
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Feel free to check out my other blog posts for more thoughts, tips and tricks.
Stay balanced.
Donna ♡
