Creativity Manifesto

By Derek Pettinelli
Creativity + Social Change, University of Connecticut
Waterbury, Connecticut

1. Society places restrictions on people, dictating what they can and cannot do. First and foremost, one must completely disregard such things and concentrate on what they want to do. Rejecting social and societal norms is the first step and also the most difficult one. It’s also important to keep in mind that one should not break any laws or harm others when doing this.
2. Rejecting societal norms is the first step and this includes the capitalist/materialist obsession of mass consumption. A goal that is purely monetary is not one worth obtaining and self-fulfillment is much more important. If one is satisfied with oneself, monetary compensation will follow, but it should not be the main goal.
3. One should be a blank slate by this point, which again is easier said than done. This is a stage in which you should acknowledge nothing except the desire to be creative and achieve enlightenment through creative self-fulfillment.
4. Being creative involves seeking out completely new ways of thinking in order to “rebuild” oneself. New avenues of thought must be explored in order to achieve a higher level of being.
5. Researching think tanks and progressive ways of thought are one part of the equation, but one must also look into classical ways of thinking by learning about classical psychology, existentialism and philosophy through works such as Aristotle, Nietzche, Socrates, Plato, etc.
6. The reading and consumption and processing of information is pivotal. One must devote a large amount of their time to not only seeking out new forms of thought, but to disregarding such useless information such as celebrity gossip, as that only serves to cloud the mind and stifle creativity.
7. Entertainment must be limited, especially TV. Advertisements and marketing are the ultimate forms of quelling creativity, as it is someone else being creative in order to trick and convince the audience into being a consumer.
8. Institutions of higher learning are an excellent place to express creativity, especially compared to pre-college schooling and the business world.
9. Random acts of spontaneity serve to further expand the creative mind. Such acts are difficult to think of and will require work until they become second nature. One must also get rid of any social anxiety by detaching themselves from the physical constraints of the real world and expanding their horizons. Being playful is a great way to accomplish this.
10. Knowing when to take feedback to heart is also important. Some people are negative and only want to bring others down and these people must be avoided.
11. Creativity comes more naturally to some than others and this should not be discouraging as it can be taught and it’s important to remember that this is a process that is constantly working 24/7 as the mind is the most complex and powerful tool in the universe.
12. Expansion of the mind is the penultimate form of creativity, when one is in complete control of the mind, the physical world bears little importance. This is referred to as opening of the third eye, which is almost impossible, almost.

Creativity Manifesto, or A Note to My Young Cousin Regarding Creativity

By Michael Sciarra
Creativity + Social Change, University of Connecticut
Waterbury, Connecticut

• Listen to others' ideas; even, and especially if, you don't like them (the ideas and/or the persons). You may learn something.
• Take the time to read/view often-referenced source materials that interest you. It's quite astonishing when you learn that you have a different interpretation than others before you.
• Creativity involves risk. The alternative is extinction. Learn how to manage the risks, and you will be rewarded.
• Write down and discuss your ideas. This will stimulate other parts of your brain, and lead to additional ideas that were not accessible before.
• If someone is critical of your best ideas, don't let this stop you. See if you can find something of use in the criticism, and move on. Remember, there are many more judges than doers in the world (just like in spectator sports), and a positive thought is said to be five times more powerful than a negative one.
• Be persistent, and don't make excuses that prevent you from trying. Harland Sanders presented his franchise idea involving his chicken recipe to more than a thousand restaurant owners before he closed his first deal. That's how Kentucky Fried Chicken came about, and Colonel Sanders was in retirement when he started this particular venture.
• Find a mentor. Maybe someone who's doing something that you would like to do, or whose style you'd like to emulate. This will be a great way to learn and develop important contacts.
• Remember that it's people that make new products, new political movements, and new projects of all kinds work. Put these people first, because without them, the rest won't happen.
• Alter any of the above, and add to the list, as you see fit. ...
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Creativity Manifesto

By Robert Sireno
Creativity + Social Change, University of Connecticut
Waterbury, Connecticut

 

“For all that has been -- ‘Thanks’

For all that can be -- ‘Yes’”

-- Dag Hammarskjold

 

________

 

 

excitement

 

 

a thought seeking understanding

 

 

emanates

 

 

________

 

creation of thought

 

excitement . . . What we know of creation had begun . . . time and space have appeared from an invisible pinpoint with unbelievable potential . . . forming the cosmos as it flowed and evolved . . . the thought continues outward, as if a fragrance, seeking consciousness for its realization and understanding.

 

According to scientist Stephen Hawkins, many times during this evolving process of “Creation,” things occurred by sheer chance, and without them occurring in this exact way, LIFE could not have been possible. Creation, at all these junctures could have easily gone in another direction, and we would not be here to know. What this indicates is that you and I were “purposefully” put in place, at this time, to be a conscious witness and an aid in the development of the thought.

 

As a species, we can thank our existence to events that have occurred for their adaptive values. Everything has “happened” to bring us to a point in time. We are now at that focal point for realizing our purpose . . . . . the purpose . . . . .

 

As LIFE evolved on the planet that humans inhabit, adaptation was possible -- conditions were right -- all was ready. From the earliest single cell form to early man, “Creation” was proceeding, the thought was continuing on its intended journey toward realization. Even now the cosmos continues to expand until its purpose is realized.

 

Humans began early to intuit the fact that there was something beyond their thinking and objective awareness. Evolution had provided them with senses -- hearing, sight, smell, taste, and touch -- to perceive their world. But, “beyond” that . . . what was there . . . perhaps powerful; perhaps eternal; perhaps caring for their wellbeing. Why did this “something” not communicate directly with them ?

 

They knew there was something our senses couldn’t detect -- but, what was it ? From this question arose stories about what this something beyond reality was. Stories appeared of gods, goddesses, evil, good, caring, not caring. Individuals arose among the people claiming contact with this knowledge -- perhaps precursors ? The thought was there, seeking a time when they would understand, expanding through time and space, until such a time would come and “it” could be comprehended by all.

 

What we, as humans, could not know was that this preliminary recognition of our purpose for being here was meant not for some isolated individuals or groups, although their sensitivity may awaken us to the presence of the thought, but was meant for us all as “one.” And to take this one step further, it was meant for the entire universe as “one.” As we sense our surroundings in any “moment” -- and I emphasize “moment” -- the thought is there. Whether we are hearing the wind in the trees, seeing the stars, smelling the wild flowers, tasting the fellowship supper, or feeling the rain on our bodies, we indeed perceive the thought in all its strength, in all its beauty -- not recognizing it. “Creation” involves everything.

 

thought of creation

 

So why does any of this matter ? What can we do about any of this, but to go on with our lives -- business as usual ? Are we inconsequential ? That’s far from the truth ! The thought that began the “Creation” of all, the thought that “is” all, endowed humans with a special power. Our species, on the planet Earth, have evolved with reflexive consciousness. We are the consciousness for the entire universe, and thus, for the thought. The purpose of the thought can only be realized through us -- and perhaps even at some point “by” us. Is this our purpose ? If we accept this and attempt to understand all the implications of it, how are we challenged to proceed ? What is at stake ? What type of individuals must we become ?

 

Scientists attempt to understand all that has happened. They see themselves as a product of a past that we can weigh and measure. We must see ourselves as the future, being drawn toward a point that is ahead. Creation is happening forward. We are being pulled, not expelled.

creativity’s call to action

1. We must begin with “who we are,” concentrating on this moment -- being “in the moment” as much as possible. “Creation” is happening now. Not in the past. Not yet in the future.
2. We must realize that “Creation” is now centered in us. We are “Creation” personified. Our consciousness and ability to create are the object of the thought’s evolution thus far.
3. We must maintain a sustainable way of life for all. We must use our intelligence to monitor our every need, now and future. Our thoughts cannot be only self-serving, but must encompass the entire universe. Harmful actions must be controlled. We must think and feel as the Earth Community.
4. Next, we must leave ourselves open for what the future could hold. We must meet together in groups to exchange ideas, listening to the visionaries among us. But, hearing everyone. Creativity habits and skills should be nurtured from childhood to maturity. Everyone must be involved. The potential of all should be realized as much as possible as one person may have an important key.
   
   These groups should begin as informal social get-togethers for coffee and then these groups should mix or join with other groups. It is important that we learn about and from each other, in enjoyable settings.
   
   There should be brainstorming of all possible “presents” as we see them, and all possible “futures.” The results of these groups should be like listening to a symphony orchestra. Each separate artist’s contribution is necessary in the overall result.
5. The results of all these meetings that circle the earth should be presented for all to hear. Perhaps the meeting site could be the United Nations.

If we are serious about all this, committed without fear or other blocks, the thought may bring our consciousness to another level. Our purpose will become clearer. Our meaning will be before us.

Ralph's Manifesto

By Ralph A Famiglietti
Creativity + Social Change, University of Connecticut

Waterbury, Connecticut

1. If you say something that you want to sound important, you ought to have some facts to back that statement up. (otherwise see #4)
2. Accept the fact that throughout your life you’re going to make mistakes. Some mistakes are going to be tiny and other more profound. And others are going to be titanic and life changing. Some mistakes will go unnoticed and others will be open to all to see. There’s no one right way to deal with your mistakes. That’s something you’re going to have to figure out as you go along.
3. Don’t be overly impressed with a title. You know, P.h.D. this and Chairman of that. Yeah, show a little extra respect, but not a lot.
4. Another fact you’re going to have to accept is it’s pretty hard to go through life without lying. The only way to get good at lying is to practice.
5. No matter what you do, how well you prepare, bad things will happen to you throughout your life. You’re going to get your ass kicked both figuratively and literally. I can tell you advice like, “Trust no one” or “Expect the unexpected” or “Be Prepared.” None of that will help. Here’s what will help after a bad event. Take a walk, pet a dog, talk to a friend or eat some tasty food. Stuff like that.
6. So as not to depress you too much after #5 I want to say: Good stuff will befall you throughout your life too. No amount of planning or preparation or education will matter. It’s just pure luck. Enjoy it.
7. You should always have a good joke available for different situations. One for your golf four-some. One for the PTA meeting. One for a waitress. And remember, it’s not the content of the joke, but the delivery of the punch line that matters.
8. Don’t be afraid to pay for professional services like electrical, plumbing, snow removal and landscaping. It makes sense. I know there’s a great deal of satisfaction and pride that comes with doing a tough job by yourself. Plus you save money. That makes sense too. I guess I’m saying #8 is something that can go either way.
9. Kids are great but childhood goes by so quickly. Keep being a kid fun. Yeah education and discipline and structure are important but so are video games. Three hours of video games a day is adequate. Forests have been cleared to write books on child raising so there’s nothing I or anyone can say in a paragraph to cover it all. Just don’t screw things up.
10. Know that a tomato is a fruit but realize that it doesn’t belong in a fruit salad. This statement has nothing to do with tomatoes. It’s about knowledge and common sense. Get it?
11. Believe me, your memory isn’t that good. No one’s is. Do you know where your car keys are now? Write stuff down. Everything. Keep a journal or a diary, take pictures. Labeling stuff is good too.
12. Apologies are another tricky thing to work out. Most, but not all the time, they’re necessary. You may owe a guy an apology but he’s such an asshole that your pride prohibits you from saying, “I’m sorry, I was wrong.” That’s a case where you don’t have to apologize. Apologies require just a tiny bit of groveling. A chef would say, “A dash.” Anyway, don’t overdo an apology.
13. Understand that in life there are certain things that can’t be justified. You can condone an unnecessary war and urinating in public but you can’t condone littering or kicking a puppy. Learn which is which.
14. Talking about politics will do you more harm than good. Enough said.
15. “What’s wrong is wrong even if it does you good” and “Happiness comes from comparing ourselves to less successful people and reference groups.” These are quotes from Popeye and Dilbert. Don’t be afraid to watch cartoons and read the funnies.
16. “You only have one chance to make a good first impression.” I hate people who say stuff like that. Everyone does. It’s preachy and they’re trying to appear sophisticated and better than you. Don’t ever let them get away with it. Immediately do or say something to put them down. People will thank you.
17. A lot of times, shorter is better. Extending or dragging things out more than necessary will only antagonize people. This manifesto is one of them times. The end.

Manifesto (not in order of importance)

By Laurie Lukasavage
Creativity + Social Change, University of Connecticut

Waterbury, Connecticut

1. Accept that you’re not perfect. You never will be, so don’t fight it.
2. Acknowledge that you don’t live in a perfect world. You are here to try to make it better.
3. Become comfortable in your own skin. It doesn’t matter how thin, heavy, attractive or ordinary you are, the people who matter will remember you for your personality.
4. Don’t dwell on what you cannot do, develop what you can do.
5. It’s ok to change your mind/opinion about something. That’s called “growth."
6. When you solve a problem ... spice it up! Use puppets to act it out.
7. Money may not mean that much to you, but it’s everything to some people and you will never change that.
8. Talk to someone you never liked or understood. Try to find out what makes them tick. They will be suspicious of you, but you’ll learn something.
9. Don’t take mean comments from people personally. Some people were born ornery.
10. Find humor in bad situations.
11. Remember when someone does something nice for you. Smile at them often.
12. Reward others with praise as if they are your own children.
13. Avoid snooty self-centered people, they’re not part of the human race.
14. Don’t let others measure your ability. You are infinite.
15. If you don’t like something, change it. If you do like something, build on it.
16. Let yourself feel good.
17. Let yourself feel bad.
18. Learn to recognize an opportunity. This will prevent them from sneaking past you unnoticed.
19. Make your own happiness.(Who knows what you really want, better than yourself?)
20. Forgive yourself and past hurts from others, and then give it to God to tuck it in his pocket.

Creativity Manifesto for Life

By April Belanger
Creativity + Social Change, University of Connecticut
Waterbury, Connecticut

Creativity and Innovation can be seen in everyone.

Creativity can be seen in any light, by anyone individual.

Hands-on Creativity needs to be seen in all realms of life; personal, work, and education.

Continuity and Creativity are essential for the creativity process.

Creativity can be fun yet it offers structured plans for work and in your life. Example: Offering creativity in other disciplines in school can result in more creativity in the community.

Trust yourself when making judgments in your life.

Confidence and enthusiasm can create new ideas and experiences.

Keep yourself open to new ways of learning and showing your creative side.

Manifesto for Creativity and Innovation

By James D. Mazerall
Nonprofit Studies Program, Rhode Island College
Providence, Rhode Island

The world is moving to a new rhythm. To be at the forefront of this new world, the United States needs to become more creative and innovative. To be creative means to imagine something that didn’t exist before and to look for new solutions and forms. To be innovative means to introduce change in society and in the economy. Design activities transform ideas into value and link creativity to innovation.

In order to progress, the United States needs increased investment – both private and public – in knowledge. Moving ahead with wisdom requires respect for history and the cultural heritage. New knowledge builds upon historical knowledge, and most innovations are new combinations of what is already there. Culture, with its respect for individual and collective memory, is important to maintaining a sense of direction in the current context of restless change.

Creativity is a fundamental dimension of human activity. It thrives where there is dialogue between cultures, in a free, open and diverse environment with social and gender equality. It requires respect and legal protection for the outcomes of creative and intellectual work. Creativity is at the heart of culture, design and innovation, but everyone has the right to utilize their creative talent. More than ever, the United States' future depends on the imagination and creativity of its people.

The economic, environmental and social crises challenge us to find new ways of thinking and acting. Creativity and innovation can move society forward toward prosperity, but society needs to take responsibility for how they are used. Today, they must be mobilized in favor of a fair and green society, based upon intercultural dialogue and with respect for nature and for the health and well-being of people worldwide.

To create a more creative and innovative United States, open to the rest of the world and respectful of human values, the following manifesto is presented, which sets out priorities and recommendations for action. The need for change and a new initiative is urgent. The United States must give full attention to creativity and innovation now in order to find a way out of the current stalemate.

Manifesto

1. Nurture creativity in a lifelong learning process where theory and practice go hand in hand.
2. Make schools and universities places where students and teachers engage in creative thinking and learning by doing.
3. Transform workplaces into learning sites.
4. Promote a strong, independent and diverse cultural sector that can sustain intercultural dialogue.
5. Promote scientific research to understand the world, improve people’s lives and stimulate innovation.
6. Promote design processes, thinking and tools, understanding the needs, emotions, aspirations and abilities of users.
7. Support business innovation that contributes to prosperity and sustainability.

Lines of Action
The following lines of action require a new understanding of public policy. The United States government needs to engage in change together with social partners and grassroots movements. Shared visions and initiatives that cross traditional policy areas are needed in order to deal with current ecological, social, cultural, security and political deficits. Focusing upon creativity and innovation is a key to opening dialogues that cross historical political divides.

Action 1: Invest in knowledge
In order to strengthen the competitiveness of the United States, new budgetary principles that give high priority to investments in people and knowledge are necessary. In the short term, unemployed workers should be offered a chance to upgrade their skills. Business, trade unions and governments should work together in organizing the upgrading of workers’ skills through public and private funding. The scale and ambition of the educational funding must be expanded, be focused upon investment in research and knowledge and linked to building institutional frameworks that support learning in working life.

Action 2: Reinvent education
Schools and universities need to be reinvented in partnership with teachers and students so that education prepares people for the learning society. Retrain teachers and engage parents so that they can contribute to an education system that develops the necessary knowledge, skills and attitudes for intercultural dialogue, critical thinking, problem-solving and creative projects. Give a strong emphasis to design in education at different levels. Establish a major country-wide research and development effort on education to improve quality and creativity at all levels.

Action 3: Reward initiative
People that take new initiatives in business, the public sector and civic society should be rewarded. Social policies can contribute to innovation by sharing risks with citizens who engage in change. Artists, designers, scientists and entrepreneurs who contribute with new ideas should be rewarded. Prizes for excellence should be combined with legal protection of intellectual property rights and strike a balance between creating fair rewards and promoting knowledge-sharing.

Action 4: Sustain culture
Capacity-building in the cultural sector should be supported through national programs and mechanisms in order to sustain cultural diversity, independence and intercultural dialogue. Creative industries should be promoted by building new bridges between art, philosophy, science and business. The development and use of new media should be stimulated through raising the quality of the content. New economic models must be developed to finance free, diverse, independent and high-quality digital news media.

Action 5: Promote innovation
There is a need for a more ambitious and broad-based innovation policy. Increased investment in science, technology and design should be combined with efforts to increase the demand for knowledge. Firms should be stimulated to combine scientific knowledge with experience-based knowledge. They should be encouraged to increase diversity among employees in terms of gender, education and nationality. The education of engineers, managers and designers should mix theoretical education with practical experience. Innovation policy as well as labor market and education policy should aim at mobilizing users and employees in processes of change. Developing and implementing broad innovation policy strategies must be a major concern for political leaders.

Action 6: Think globally
The United States should be at the world-wide forefront in terms of science, culture and competitiveness. Collaboration within the United States in science, technology, education, design and culture needs to be further opened up to the rest of the world. A competitive United States should develop economic collaboration both with the strong, new emerging economies and with the poor countries most in need of support. Promoting innovation in poor countries is a moral obligation and it reduces the pressure of immigration. The United States should contribute to the establishment of fair rules regarding the protection and sharing of knowledge at the global level.

Action 7: Green the economy
The United States must mobilize creativity and innovation to transform itself into a post-carbon society. A key element is eco-innovation and the establishment of a "new techno-economic trajectory" starting from "end of pipe" solutions, moving through "clean technologies" and ending with "system innovations" that radically transform production, distribution and consumption. Investments need to be combined with new institutions, new regulation and new habits. Creativity is the major tool to find solutions that combine sustainability with prosperity.

Leslie Miller Personal Manifesto for Creativity, Innovation & Growth (A work in progress …)

By Leslie Miller
Nonprofit Studies Program, Rhode Island College
Providence, Rhode Island

I am inspired by the values presented in our discussions with Steve Dahlberg and through his Web site and resources shared with our class this week. I am not surprised that more government entities in Europe have been open to experiment with some of these principles than has happened here in the United States, but I believe we must start somewhere. I believe that change and growth begin with one person at a time. I have come to accept that progress is slow in our complex democracy. Instead of simply wishing that our state and local communities were governed on the guiding principle of human well-being, I am willing to accept responsibility to live in harmony with the principles I have learned thus far and to continue learning and being open to allow these values of creativity to sculpt my life. In fact, I have found that these concepts ring true with what I have learned as a 50-year-old woman who has returned to college and has experienced a renewed awareness of the person I was meant to be. I am excited to have learned better language this week to articulate these values I have been discovering in recent years. It is my hope that by living by the following values and principles of creativity, innovation and growth, that my life may attract others to join this movement to divert our global insanity of doing things the same old way and complaining that nothing has changed for the better.

1. I will follow the sentiments of the doctors’ Hippocratic Oath, to “do no harm” in all my dealings.
2. I will respect the culture and traditions that came and worked before me. I will strive to build up and not tear down others.
3. I will become a student of these values of creativity, and will take note of others’ and my successes, and will share about them with others.
4. I will continue to do what I love and will keep building a “web of relationships and interests.” I will introduce people and ideas from one endeavor I love to those from another, and allow the elements of one to pollinate and take root in the other. I will not try to control or manipulate outcomes, but will trust my instincts and those of my companions and learn and celebrate what grows out of such collaborations. I will not judge as good or bad such outcomes and will report these outcomes when I share with others.
5. I will embrace diversity and make it a point to meet new people as I go about living my life and will strive to forge new relationships and partnerships. I will welcome new people into my life and will nurture these new relationships.
6. I will focus on being authentic and fair in my dealings with others, and will strive to stay open to new ideas and ways of doing things.
7. I will put more emphasis on the well-being of others and myself, than on making money. I will trust that by continuing to embrace these principles and values of creativity, I will have what I need and extra to share with others.
8. I will continue to use and learn the language of creativity, and will live in harmony with its values that I now am and will continue to become aware of.
9. I will watch for and make opportunities to influence others in my scope of activity, doing my best to introduce these values whether through my music and writing; or, in my professional, community, and personal dealings.

TAKING THE ‘ART’ OUT OF CREATIVITY

By a Mom in the Nonprofit Studies Program, Rhode Island College
Providence, Rhode Island

To many people the word "creativity" evokes images of artists sculpting or drawing a work of art; of a composer mastering a musical composition; a designer fashioning a new line of clothing; or an architect designing a state-of-the-art engineering feat. To me, creativity means "thinking outside the box" and trying a unique approach to something. It may be a manager who finds unique ways to motivate his or her employees to maximize their potential; a volunteer who unlocks fundraising potentials; or a person who views the same problem so many others view, but has a clever way of fixing it.

The need for creativity in my life became a priority when I learned years ago that my son had ADHD. It was apparent from an early age that he wasn’t capable of learning the way most children do. He couldn’t pay attention for long, was easily distracted, and lost interest quickly. While traditional educational standards were not effective for him, he had an innate talent for hands-on skills and was repairing motorcycles by the age of 12, performing basic carpentry tasks, and mastering computers. While most of his teachers insisted that he sit still and pay attention just like the other students, some of the teachers were able to alter their styles to fit his needs. They showed creativity in every essence of the word. They would teach him math skills by referencing football plays and fishing examples (two topics that he enjoys). They used hands-on approaches to teach him science; and stories to relate to history rather than facts and figures.

The approach these teachers took has helped my teenage son to become successful in life and feel empowered in his learning. These select teachers were able to put aside their traditional practices and develop creative, new ways to prove their own abilities and to encourage and educate their students, despite their different learning styles.

At home I experimented with creative ideas to keep my son on task, whether it was finishing his homework, completing a chore, or remembering to do something.

My "call to action" is to continue looking for creative solutions in my daily life, whether it’s empowering my son, initiating a new fundraising opportunity, or redecorating my home for a change of scenery.

Creativity Manifesto

By Cheryl MacColl
Nonprofit Studies Program, Rhode Island College
Providence, Rhode Island

Creativity is an important part of our lives. The ability to express creativity lends itself to many opportunities, relationships and networks. It is a way of bringing people together in a positive and productive way. The world would be a boring place without it. I feel that creativity belongs in our educational institutions, beginning in early childhood. It should also be a part of our day-to-day existence. Creativity is a unique learning process as it is unique unto each individual; therefore the outcomes are diverse and endless.

Creativity matters because it is productive and our world is constantly changing; allowing for such production.

Educational systems should be aware of the benefits of creativity. Nurturing the learning process through the use of creativity is beneficial because individuals may flourish through its use.

• Encourage individuals to always tap into their creative side.
• Maintain a positive environment with encouragement and nurture creative thought.
• Build open, supportive communities, encouraging diversity from different cultures, groups and lifestyles.
• Learn from mistakes and encourage growth from them.
• Focus time on what is important and encourage productivity towards the goal.
• Welcome creativity from everyone in your group.
• Be confident in standing out in a crowd rather than going along with the crowd.

Creativity Manifesto

By Marcela Betancur
Nonprofit Studies Program, Rhode Island College
Providence, Rhode Island

When we look at a colorful painting or a curious sculpture we assume that the artist has an abundance of creativity and this might only be part of an endless sea of creative projects. Nevertheless, we rarely think of politicians or business people as creative, but in reality this is far from the truth. In our personal essence, we are all creative.

I believe a person’s creativity is developed and put forth according to their personality and the way they decide to take advantage of it. We are all different. Think differently. Reason differently. Decide differently. Feel differently. We are all creative differently.

The way that we handle our everyday activities reflects a lot about our personal creativity. A mother of a young child, for example, might hide vegetables under lots of cheese to get the child to eat them, or a college student might put Post its everywhere in his room with the constant reminder to return that book to the library. Even in the smallest action that we take, we use our creative intuition and our personality to take it.

Our creativity is the way we mold ideas or things to who we are, what we need, and where we are going. Creativity is the awareness we have of the things and ideas around us and how we can make our input. Creativity is feeling free to be ourselves and paint our lives outside the lines.

Creativity Manifesto

By Haley Gerstein
Nonprofit Studies Program, Rhode Island College
Providence, Rhode Island

Imagination and creativity are necessary. The clothes you choose to wear, the mural you paint, the object you invent, or the cocktail you come up with are all courtesy of your creative side. Everyone has an imagination and the ability to turn something bland into something beautiful. Without creativity, a term that can be used interchangeably with imagination, innovation and curiosity, we would still be living in caves, without fire.

This manifesto is about creating an intellectually aware world. A society of this nature would have basic morals: racism and homophobia are unacceptable, all living beings are the same and deserve to be treated as such, whether it be man or woman, white or black, human or non human. To create a world of this magnitude takes innovative thinking -- which steams from imagination.

This manifesto declares:

• Children must be educated in a manner that allows them to learn how to think and develop their own thoughts.
• Classes such as music, art, theater and dance will be given equal time to English, math, history and science.
• The core of humanity is humility. A person must have the ability to empathize with all forms of life. These people are environmentally aware and proactive about saving the planet and all its life forms. They lead ‘green,’ cruelty-free lives. Animals are not used for food, fashion or convenience. Cows and chickens now exist for the same reason we do -- to live. Litter is a term found only in outdated dictionaries and there is no such thing as racism or violence because everyone’s life is valued the same.
• Self-expression is strongly urged.
• People will live. Life is about happiness. Your job should reflect your interests, your pay should be comfortable enough to allow you to work a maximum of 40 hours a week -- giving you time for the more important stuff.
• Creative thinking must be encouraged. Every problem has numerous solutions.
• Ignorance is not an excuse. Creativity can lead to anything. Creativity has given us modern medicine; it also gave us gas chambers. All creativity is encouraged and welcome, but people must not be stupid. They must be able to see past the manipulation and sugarcoating. Not all innovative thoughts and creations are positive. It is important to ask questions and draw your own conclusions.

Creativity is the spice of life. It allows us to discover ourselves and design how others see us. It opens our minds for discussions and helps the world evolve.

CREATIVITY MANIFESTO

By Candice De Los Reyes
Nonprofit Studies Program, Rhode Island College
Providence, Rhode Island

1. Nonprofit organizations have to be creative and adaptive to respond to the constantly evolving needs of the communities they serve.
2. Nonprofits need creative and inspired thinkers who can view a problem and develop new and never-before pioneered ways to address it.
3. Given the volatile fiscal climate, creativity and resourcefulness should be at the center of any organization’s core values.
4. Every organization should build into its staff meetings, an institutionalized time for creative thinking.
5. Someone once said,“Organizational culture eats strategy for breakfast.” It is imperative that creativity — and the general practice of stretching one’s mind to think outside the box — be embedded in any successful organization’s culture.

Creativity Manifesto

By Rosa Rosario
Nonprofit Studies Program, Rhode Island College
Providence, Rhode Island

Principles: Not in order of priority, as they are all equally important

• Cultivating an environment of diversity. Though diversity can mean different things, the core idea is, variety. Promoting a space and environment of ideas, thoughts and options that are collected from a variety of people will increase the likelihood of success. Basically, there are more chances and options in We than in I.
• Challenge practices. Challenge “old” ways of executing tasks if they are no longer effective. Over time, circumstances change. Lifestyles and society as a whole experience change and in order to grow we have to be willing to make some changes and possibly change out established techniques. Change is the only constant. Change has to occur on an individual level, as well as community level.
• Investing in the arts. Arts are a means of personal expression, as well as a tool that is scientifically proven to enhance brain activity/function, self-esteem and personal fulfillment. Inevitably, we can make more of an investment to society if we are well-rounded, educated human beings. I see the recent practice of reducing or eliminating these programs in schools as a negative antidote to reducing budgets.
• Invest in building community. It is important to work on building progressive communities, investing in our neighborhoods, in the appearance, in the quality of life, in its residents. This can be done by making funding more accessible and attainable to local businesses, schools and libraries. Also, we can ensure this by building a sense of cohesion and responsibility among community members. This will ultimately lead to igniting a desire to improve your lifestyle and overall quality of life for yourself, your neighbors, and for all.
• Personal responsibility. Responsibility is a factor that I notice many people mention in one form or another. Either we are blaming everyone else for not doing anything, not doing enough, or conforming to the lack of participation (“No one else is doing anything so why should I?" type of mentality). I feel that it is one of our responsibilities as mankind to be available for each other. To help support each other in attaining stability and sanity in life. If we all have a strong sense of self, security, happiness, economic and educational foundation we can value the need for progress as a civilization. It takes a village. This is a lesson that we must all learn to grow and build continually.
• Validation. The need to be valued is a basic need. We all need to feel appreciated for who we are, for our ideas, for what we bring to the world. Everyone has something to offer and if we broaden our scope of what is important and learn how to incorporate others' views, we would increase the likelihood of participation and collaboration on a community, local and event global levels. Opening communication leads to more effective collaborations that will break paradigms that stump development and progress.

Often, it can be difficult to gather ideas that do not mirror others. I believe that the challenge exists in assessing the “real” problem or the inhibitors in the situation and re-shaping our approach. An essential part of successful program development and creating a plan is the assessment piece. If we are to make positive changes, we must seriously and consciously look at the state of society and consider the ineffective changes that have occurred within the past decades whether it is the state of education, economy and fulfillment of its citizens.

Creativity Manifesto

By Lauren Paola
Nonprofit Studies Program, Rhode Island College
Providence, Rhode Island

THE MOST FUNDAMENTAL IDEAS AND METHODS OF LEARNING TODAY WERE CONSIDERED “CREATIVE” AND NEW AT ONE POINT.

INDIVIDUALS MUST BE ALLOWED TO EXPLORE THEIR CREATIVE AND INTUITIVE IDEAS AND INSTINCTS TO PROMOTE THE EVOLUTION OF HUMAN THOUGHT AND ACTION.

CREATIVITY IS NURTURED WHEN THOUGHTS AND ACTIONS ARE UNRESTRICTED AND UNREGULATED.

SOCIAL “NORMS” AND STIGMAS CAN CRIPPLE AND DISCOURAGE INDIVIDUAL AND GROUP CREATIVITY.

MULTIPLE AND DIVERSE CREATIVE MINDS CAN FEED OFF OF ONE ANOTHER TO CREATE A HIGHER LEVEL OF CREATIVE THINKING THAT MAY HAVE NOT BEEN POSSIBLE ALONE.

CREATIVITY CAN BE APPLIED TO A NUMBER OF DISCIPLINES AND IS NOT JUST A FUNCTION OF THE ARTS.

HUMAN EVOLUTION REQUIRES CREATIVE THINKING. WITHOUT CREATIVE THOUGHTS THERE IS NO PROGRESS -- ONLY STAGNANT EXISTENCE OF WHAT ALREADY EXISTS.

MANY OF THE SOCIAL, ENVIRONMENTAL AND ECONOMICAL PROBLEMS THAT THE HUMAN RACE HAS YET TO SOLVE WILL REQUIRE CREATIVE INDIVIDUALS WHO ARE ENCOURAGED TO THINK OUTSIDE OF THE STATUS QUO FOR CREATIVE SOLUTIONS.

Manifesto for creativity/change

By Linda-Jean Briggs
Nonprofit Studies Program, Rhode Island College
Providence, Rhode Island

Take pride in who I am. Continue to be myself.

Be tolerant of others' points of view. Embrace the possibility that there is another way to accomplish the same end.

Be more ready to step back from my determined ‘right way’ and look at other possibilities

Work harder to embrace others and their ideas.

Look to minimize procrastination on projects and tasks.

Work to temper aggression and intolerance in the politics of our community.

Remember to look at my family and be thankful for the happiness they bring me.

Creativity Manifesto

By Amanda Clarke
Nonprofit Studies Program, Rhode Island College
Providence, Rhode Island

Creativity is not just an abstract thought; it is a way a thinking that can be harnessed and utilized to generate new ideas. I believe diversity and inclusion are two of the most important factors in producing a creative environment. Below I have set out a set of guidelines to maximize creativity in an organization.

1. Challenge assumptions. There isn’t just one way to solve a problem. Think beyond the traditional approach to problem solving and consider new possibilities.
2. Construct an environment of inclusiveness. Everyone is creative in his or her own right and an atmosphere that encourages individuals to share their ideas will foster creativity.
3. Diversity is vital to creativity. People of different ages, races, religions, socio-economic backgrounds provide a unique set of beliefs, which all add to the creative process.
4. Employ active listening. During the creative process, individuals must learn to not only share ideas but also be willing to listen and discuss the ideas of others.
5. Inspire creativity. All people have creative capacities, however, some more than others need help realizing them. Leaders of an organization should encourage and help develop everyone’s creative capacity.
6. Use creativity and critical thinking in problem solving. By combining logic reasoning and creative thinking, unique and useful solutions are more likely to be discovered.
7. Be a risk-taker. Creative people must have a willingness to try new ideas and sometimes be wrong.
8. Solution-first thinking, leave behind negativity and use constructive criticism instead.
9. Leaders should encourage creative behavior. Strong support for creativity from the leadership of an organization will encourage members to be more creative.
10. Utilize creative spaces as a way to encourage creativity. Surround yourself with inspiring pieces of art, photos or whatever motivates you to challenge yourself.

My Manifesto on Creativity

By Michael Lamar
Nonprofit Studies Program, Rhode Island College
Providence, Rhode Island

1. The word “creativity” suggests not only a state of mind where individuals or groups advance original approaches to artistic endeavors, but it also describes a path to problem solving and innovative thinking that challenges and confronts us all. Unlike “imagine,” which says nothing of active participation or expending the effort to realize a goal, “creativity” suggests being engaged and tangible results; it’s more of an action verb. We need to encourage every individual and organization to realize their potential to think and act creatively – despite their assumptions about what that word depicts - as a means to move towards ingenuity and problem solving. Creating is not for artists alone: Everyone should own a piece of it.
2. Creating is giving birth to an idea and considers the implementation of it – a singular, exhaustive act – and is full of challenges. Like the word “imagine,” creativity suggests optimism and openness; it is seldom viewed as an unwelcomed trait. Who looks negatively on creativity unless the purpose is to do harm and trade in evil? We must make every effort to operate within the realm of the positive and to do good as we exercise our freedom to think inventively. Evil and profound self-interest exists in the world, as history has so illustriously proven. Equipped with an informed conscience, we must reflect on our motivation and actions. Turning this outward, we must also be courageous to speak to those “creative” measures implemented by other individuals, organizations and governments that are blind to the cause of human rights, the dignity of each individual, and the well-being of the environment that we all share.
3. Risk and failure is often the unwelcome product of the creative act, and seldom do the initial results, trials and iterations reveal the kind of successes we are pleased with, and are applauded for. We should encourage those who are immersed in this endeavor to continue their work, to forge a path in hope, and to accept the struggle that’s intrinsic to the process. This requires time, patience and minimal distraction. It can be a hard but beautiful exercise to watch - be it student, peer, colleague or child – but encouraging words make a difference.
4. We are a loud bunch of walking heads in search of maximum distraction. We don’t recognize the importance of silence in the pursuit of creative endeavors. Encourage most everyone to turn off their IPODs, shut off their TVs and unplug their laptops - at least for a period of time. We’ll all get better results when we can dismiss the chatter.
5. We often don’t know what product or service we need until it is presented to us. The creative mind or corporation or nonprofit or educational institution will fulfill that need because they are examining and thinking innovatively. Maybe the motive is sometime in question, but it provides us with something we couldn’t articulate or order, let alone create ourselves. Surprising us with how well one thinks they know our needs is creative and worthy of our attention.
6. Even though it can’t be defined, everyone wants to work in an environment that fosters creativity and encourages the capacity for our limitless potential; it is life affirming, potentially edifying, and downright fun. Yes, fun. Even with the struggle and hardship of creating a new concept/object/method, at some point in our lives, we seek the exhilaration of being part of something that transcends our mundane daily routine. As employers , teachers and administrators, we need to remind ourselves of those occasions in the past where we have experienced that kind of joy, and find ways to encourage that within the culture of the school or business.
7. Collaboration matters, and for some it is the most direct path to thinking creatively, to testing an idea, to problem solving, or to playing to the strengths of others as a way to achieve an end goal. It is important to be generous to your partner or team and not be focused on who owns the idea or what part of it. It is a call to giving and selflessness for the good of the whole. In a rock-star culture that emphasizes the individual, this requires a real “death-to-the-ego” exercise, but once beyond that, it can yield some astonishing results. Go ahead and give it a try ... it’s been my professional mode of operation for 24 years.
8. Learn from the shampoo instructions: lather, rinse, repeat. Repeat. Repeat. Repeat. I believe in that, too.

Manifesto of Creativity

By Heather Butler
Nonprofit Studies Program, Rhode Island College
Providence, Rhode Island

Creativity, to me, is thinking of new ideas or taking an idea to another level. This is a declaration of my creative method and how I intend to bring creativity to all aspects of my life. I intend to be more aware of my own ability to be creative. Also, I have come to appreciate the simple act of “brainstorming.” In a thoughtful session of brainstorming, no idea should be thought of as unintelligent and no person should be discouraged from expressing a thought. I am positive that many great ideas have their root in what one might have perceived as a simpleminded thought. Whether alone, or in concert with others, I affirm, that I have an obligation to be true to my values and, to be mindful of those of others. However, I will not let that be a hindrance to the creative process.

1. I will be more creative in my thoughts and in my actions.
2. I will foster a creative environment with my family. Whether through visual art, music, spoken word, written word or cerebral art (the art of creating new ideas), I will work hard to ensure that those around me are valued for their ideas.
3. I will work in partnership with my colleagues to create a workplace that ebbs and flows with the creative process as the driving force. No idea will be discriminated against.
4. I will put aside my prejudices to allow for divergent points of view. I will listen to others and value their opinions.
5. I will admit that there are potential blocks, perceived or otherwise, to creativity but I will strive to overcome them.
6. I will not be fearful of speaking out for an idea that I am passionate about. I will take into consideration the thoughts and opinions of others and strive to collaborate.
7. I will not dismiss the thoughtful input of others.
8. I will continue to use technology to reach out to others. To communicate thoughts is essential to working together to solve problems and brainstorm new ideas.
9. I will look to the past to help to create a better future. Not only to avoid repeating mistakes, but to learn from laudable advances, as well.
10. I will try to expound upon valuable concepts. Giving credit where it is due and striving to pool resources to work toward an improved situation.

Manifesto on Creativity

By Dante Tavolaro
Nonprofit Studies Program, Rhode Island College
Providence, Rhode Island

• “But we’ve always done it that way.” This phrase is a deadly one and it is used all too often. For organizations to continue to grow we must erase this phrase from our vocabulary.
• Creativity is very important and so is thinking outside the box. But there must be a delicate balance when comes to implementing new ideas. There is a very big difference between rocking the boat and capsizing it.
• Be afraid to fail. The safety in doing things the way they have always been done is that the outcome is known. When new and creative ideas are implemented the safety net is gone, there is no way to tell what the end result will be. Give it a shot, don’t be afraid to fail, and if you do fail, tweak it and try it again.
• Create environments where it is safe to ask questions. Asking questions and challenging norms are difficult things to do. If this way of thinking is allowed – if a safe space to do this is created – there is an environment where brainstorming and collaboration can occur.
• Use the "plus delta" model of evaluating projects. List out the pluses, the things that people liked. Then list out the deltas, the things people would change. This model of evaluation does not have the negativity of good and bad things, but rather things that went well and things we want to try to do differently.
• When people feel safe and comfortable in their work environments, it allows them to be more relaxed. Cultivating this environment allows peoples the space to think outside of the box, to be more productive, to be more creative. Getting rid of the uptight 9-5 world, and allowing people to express themselves (within limits, of course) and bring their own individual gifts and talents to their work will bring what they do to a whole new level.