INTERNATIONAL CREATIVITY AND INNOVATION DAY

A popular saying states that doing something the same way over and over while expecting different results is insanity. The world needs creative individuals who can solve old problems by creating new innovative ideas. The International Creativity and Innovation Day is also known as World Creativity and Innovation Day is observed on April 21st every year. This day was established to celebrate creativity, new ideas, and the individuals behind these innovations.

Is Creativity and Innovation Different?

Although commonly used interchangeably, creativity and innovation are not synonymous, and there is a clear distinction between them. Nevertheless, the two depend on each other for optimal success. Creativity is the ability to conceive and imagine an original and unique idea. Innovation, on the other hand, transforms these creative ideas into real-world products and services that change the world positively. For instance, Steve Jobs’ creativity in imagining new tech products brought about innovations like iPhones, iTunes store, Mac Computers among other products.

History of International Creativity and Innovation Day

Marci Segal, a creativity specialist, is believed to be the brain behind the World Creativity Day. Marci came across a newspaper headline, ‘Canada in Creativity Crisis’ and at once, she decided to do something about it. She talked with her colleagues, and together they managed to organize a day to encourage people make good use of their creativity.

The first World Creativity Day was observed in 2002. Since then, the day is celebrated yearly on April 21st with over 46 countries participating in the event.

Today, the holiday is usually a weeklong celebration starting on April 15th and ending on April 21st. The dates for the world creativity and innovation week were agreed on because April 15th is the birthday of a celebrated universal genius, Leonardo da Vinci’s.

It is believed that Vinci, who was born in 1452, was extraordinary based on his advanced logical approach which was unusual at that time. Vinci excelled in Arts, Sciences, Invention, Cartography, Mathematics, Geology and everything else he turned his mind and hands on.

World creativity Day, therefore, aims at encouraging everyone to dig deep and find their inner talents just like Leonardo da Vinci.

How to Celebrate of International Creativity and Innovation Day

The best time to reflect on how you can creatively change the world is on International Creativity and Innovation Day. Take a notepad and list any ideas you have that can potentially improve your local community, workplace or even your own home. Be sure to share your thoughts with like-minded people or concerned persons, and who knows. Your idea could be what the world has been waiting for.

Another great way to celebrate World Innovation Day is inviting friends and family members for a mini party and getting everyone involved in some creative activities. These can be creative games or brainstorming sessions to solve a problem that has persisted for quite long.

If you are talented in a given area, this is the best time to showcase your prowess. For instance, if you are good at drawing, post your drawings on social media and share them with the world using the hashtag WorldCreativityandInnovationDay or #WorldCreativityDay.

It is also crucial for you to motivate others and their new ideas to help them understand their potential and the positive difference their creativity can contribute to the world.

Leaders and employers can leverage International Creativity and Innovation Day in ways that encourage creativity among the workers. This includes inspiring individuals with new ideas, celebrating innovative employees, launching programs that foster innovation and regularly engaging employees in activities that allow them to let loose and have fun.