From Creative to Creation

While a tree provides shade to animals seeking refuge from the summer heat, shade is not the primary creative outlet of the tree.

Many service industries are full of creative people. People who choose to remain playful, curious and open to new possibilities in their work.

These are the people who can transform a good cafe experience into a great experience, the doctors who are willing to explore alternative avenues to improve health, the youth workers and teachers who connect with tricky kids.

Creativity in service delivery can be transformational for service recipients. It can shift perspectives on life, relieve suffering and provide moments of joy. Creative services can be a refuge in a stressful world, like shade on a hot day.

While utilising our creativity in service to others is valuable, sometimes our inner artist senses that there's something more to be explored. The ache to create is often not satisfied in jobs that only deliver services. Our inner artist likes tangible things: things we can see, touch, hear, things we can share with others.

Trees are continually producing new leaves, branches, flowers, fruits. Tangible artefacts that can be seen, held and used.

The things we make can be a reflection of the service we deliver. They may carry a similar sentiment, emotional resonance or tone.

As we develop the practice of using our creativity for creation, we may notice a shift in the quality and content of the services we provide. Like a tree producing new growth, we create space for fresh inspiration and learning.