Creativity was initially understood as the process that, appropriate to its root, created something new. As such, it is defined by the Oxford English Dictionary as "the quality of creating" or "cause[ing a new element] to exist,” (Creativity)." It has even been common within our society to associate an artist creating a painting when hearing the very term, as he produces a new display of lines, strokes, and color patterns. In this way, the author creates a new novel, the sculptor a new statue, and the magician a new trick all by being creative.

That is a great explanation of creativity! It is often associated with artistic expression, where individuals create something new like a painting, novel, statue, or trick. However, it is important to note that creativity extends beyond the realm of art. It can be found in various fields such as science, technology, business, and even everyday problem-solving.

To further understand the concept of creativity, let's break down the definition and the process of creating something new.

The Oxford English Dictionary defines creativity as "the quality of creating" or "causing a new element to exist." This definition emphasizes the act of bringing something into existence that did not exist before. Sometimes, this "new element" can be a physical object or creation, while other times it can be a new idea, concept, or solution.

The creative process involves several steps:

1. Preparation: This is the stage where you gather information, do research, and explore ideas related to your creative project. It is important to have a solid foundation before diving into the creation process.

2. Incubation: After the preparation stage, your mind needs time to process and digest the information you have gathered. This often happens unconsciously, allowing different thoughts and ideas to connect and form new combinations.

3. Inspiration: This is the "aha!" moment when a new idea or solution presents itself. It can happen unexpectedly, triggered by something you see, hear, or experience. Inspiration can come from a variety of sources, including nature, art, conversations, or even dreams.

4. Execution: Once you have the idea, the next step is to bring it to life. This is where the artist paints the canvas, the writer drafts the novel, or the scientist conducts experiments. It involves putting your thoughts, skills, and creativity into action.

5. Evaluation: After executing your creation, it is essential to step back and evaluate its outcome. Reflect on what worked well and what could be improved. This reflection can help refine your creation and spark new ideas for future projects.

It is worth mentioning that creativity is not limited to the domain of a select few. Everyone has the potential to be creative by tapping into their unique perspectives, experiences, and ideas. Cultivating creativity involves being open-minded, embracing experimentation, and not being afraid to take risks.

So, whether it's in art, science, business, or everyday life, creativity is a fundamental human ability that allows us to bring something new into existence and spark innovation.