summary ofCreativityBook by Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi, Dr.

first KEY POINT

The skill that makes us humans

Creativity does not erupt from a single person’s mind but is birthed from the joint contribution of multiple sources. The popular belief that invention can be achieved by thought is true but limiting. Thinking creatively will not yield as many results as changing the conditions surrounding a particular issue. Furthermore, genuine creativity is not the result of an epiphany but real hard work.Everything we see today is the result of the collective ingenuity of all humanity. The pursuit of our individual goals drove us to express ourselves through various languages, values, scientific understanding, and technology. It is what differentiates us from apes — although we share 98% of our genetic makeup with these animals, our pursuit of excellence has distinguished us as a higher class.

Engaging in imaginative endeavors, we experience a richness of life. Consider the excitement of artists and scientists when they come close to their goals. They become overwhelmed with a thrilling feeling that even money can’t buy.We must also note that although the thrills of creativity are fleeting, the creative process’s outcome always has a massive impact on future events. Humans today can build something beautiful or destroy everything in sight. The balance of the world lies in the hands of people. If we continue to ignore our responsibilities and focus on our selfish desires, the world as we know it may end.Although we might be unsure what creativity will lead to, we can explain how it happens.

This summary sheds light on the authenticity of myths related to creativity. By the end, you will learn how to manipulate the creative process to your advantage.