Leadership and training help organizations stay strong. Too often we focus only on hard skills because they’re easier to measure and easier to justify in a budget. Hard skills—like computer proficiency—are important, but the soft skills such as creativity that support personal development, judgment, and leadership are just as critical.
At the end of the day, every organization runs on people. If you imagine a small village building a dam to manage its water supply, you can picture what happens: the natural leaders start organizing things, the builders start building, and the folks who brought snacks somehow end up being the most popular. Everyone contributes their strengths.
That basic process hasn’t changed much over time. While art may be a hobby for some (and yes, this is technically a hobby), it can also strengthen long-term decision making. Creative work helps develop cognitive flexibility—the ability to see things from different perspectives, connect ideas that don’t seem related, and get to the essence of a problem. Plus, it’s cheaper than most corporate retreats.
This particular painting features ducks on a lake. I experimented with sketching basic shapes before painting, and in this case it seems to be working pretty well. There are a few things I’d probably change—mainly making it a little less messy—but for some reason I keep drifting back to this style. If I can refine it a bit, it might even become something unique.
So, if this painting inspires you, feel free to give it a new home. Otherwise, fair warning: it may end up in the fireplace in a few months during my annual “declutter with enthusiasm” phase. Adopt this orphan painting while you still can. 🦆🔥
leaders who participated in a 21-day creative arts practice reported improved well-being, including more positive emotions, engagement, and sense of meaning
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creative arts helped leaders reduce stress and gain perspective, which supported clearer thinking and better decision making
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participants reported stronger relationships and teamwork with colleagues after engaging in creative activities
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leaders experienced increased resilience, focus, and productivity during demanding work periods
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the study suggests regular engagement in creative arts can support leadership effectiveness and overall human flourishing
Friberg, P. (2024). Creative arts and human flourishing: A thematic analysis of leaders engaging in a 21-day creative arts intervention. Journal of Positive Psychology Coaching. https://www.journal.theippc.com/article/120333-creative-arts-and-human-flourishing-a-thematic-analysis-of-leaders-engaging-in-a-21-day-creative-arts-intervention

