In this illuminating episode, Dr. Jennifer Reid speaks with Dr. Danah Henriksen, Associate Professor of Leadership and Innovation at Arizona State University and co-author of Explaining Creativity: The Science of Human Innovation, about the interconnections between creativity, mindfulness, and well-being. Dr. Henriksen shares valuable insights from her research and personal experience about nurturing creativity in both educational settings and daily life.
"Creativity is something that's fundamental and core to who we are as people. But we often do have to kind of fight with ourselves to make sure we're leaving some time for that."
Understanding Creativity
Dr. Henriksen challenges the common misconception that creativity is limited to artistic pursuits or special talents. She emphasizes that creativity is accessible to everyone: "If you look across the breadth of most creativity studies, it's really something that we all have access to in different ways as human beings."
Creativity in Education
Dr. Henriksen discusses the tension between standardized testing requirements and fostering creativity in schools. She shares insights from her study of National Teacher of the Year award winners who successfully integrated creative approaches while achieving strong academic results.
Nurturing Creativity in Children
For parents looking to support creativity, Dr. Henriksen recommends:
Recognizing that children are naturally creative
Supporting their existing interests and creative passions
Praising the creative process rather than just the outcome
Providing diverse experiences and encouraging safe risk-taking
Fostering a growth mindset about mistakes and learning
The Mindfulness-Creativity Connection
Dr. Henriksen shares how mindfulness can enhance creativity, noting, "The ability to kind of suspend judgment... that ability of reframing or looking at things with fresh eyes is a really key part of creativity."
Practical Takeaways
Make time for creative activities, even if they don't serve an obvious productive purpose
Practice mindful awareness to support creative thinking and overall well-being
View mistakes as learning opportunities rather than failures
Consider creativity as essential to human nature rather than just a luxury
Be mindful of where you direct your attention in our distraction-filled world
Interested in purchasing Explaining Creativity: The Science of Human Innovation? Here’s a discount code for 30% off: ASPROMP8
Dr. Danah Henriksen is an Associate Professor of Leadership & Innovation at Arizona State University. Her research focuses broadly on creativity in education, with individual threads of creativity work related to mindfulness and wellbeing, as well as areas of work on design or technology. She has contributed to multiple publications, including as a co-author of Explaining Creativity: The Science of Human Innovation with R. Keith Sawyer.
Dr. Reid on Instagram: @jenreidmd and LinkedIn
Also check out Dr. Reid's regular contributions to Psychology Today: Think Like a Shrink.
Seeking a mental health provider? Try Psychology Today
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255
Dial 988 for mental health crisis support
SAMHSA's National Helpline - 1-800-662-HELP (4357)
-a free, confidential, 24/7, 365-day-a-year treatment referral and information service (in English and Spanish) for individuals and families facing mental and/or substance use disorders.
Disclaimer:
The views expressed on this podcast reflect those of the host and guests, and are not associated with any organization or academic site.
The information and other content provided on this podcast or in any linked materials, are not intended and should not be construed as medical advice, nor is the information a substitute for professional medical expertise or treatment. All content, including text, graphics, images and information, contained on or available through this website is for general information purposes only.
If you or any other person has a medical concern, you should consult with your health care provider or seek other professional medical treatment. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something that have read on this website, blog or in any linked materials. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or emergency services (911) immediately. You can also access the National Suicide Help Line at 1-800-273-8255 or call 988 for mental health emergencies.
Share this post