[lead dropcap="yes"]You know those internal dialogues - "I'm just an ordinary person. I'm not a creative. I don't have any unique talents." We've all had them. But the ones who succeed, change up those confined conversations. They choose a new narrative.[/lead]The narrative they choose recognizes that God, the ultimate creator, instilled creative potential in each and every one of us, so that we may move towards the purpose he destined us for.How can we mobilize ourselves into turning creative potential into creative output? Let's explore three ways to get you on this path.

#1: CHALLENGE YOUR PERCEPTION OF CREATIVITY

Why is it the image of a struggling artist or an aspiring musician waiting for his big break that comes to mind when we think of creativity? Stereotypical creative paradigms must be shifted.Creativity can manifest through innovation. And, innovation can be applied in all facets of life. If you're a teacher, how can you find innovative ways to engage your students and bring the best out of them? If you're a business owner, how can you create unique customer experiences that set you apart from your competitors? If you're a pastor, how can you push the limits of your creativity while communicating from the platform on Sunday?Innovation goes beyond vocation. We can be innovative in the way we love our spouse, the way we parent our kids, and even in the way we offer our time and talents to God.

#2: BECOME SELF-AWARE

Sometimes we stand in awe when we watch people with incredible gifts walking in the full capacity of their purpose. But after the wonder goes away, we can get discouraged for a couple of reasons:

• We created a benchmark for our creativity based on something we simply weren't designed for.
• We saw only the excellent output, but forget to consider the intentional input.

To turn our creative potential into creative output, we need to be self-aware. We need to understand God's design for our lives and map our actions to it. Are we coveting someone else's gift, and consequently failing to nurture our own? And, if we have already discovered our purpose, are we putting in the work to develop those gifts?

#3: CELEBRATE THE GIFT OF OTHERS

Self-awareness leads to walking in Godly confidence. Part of walking in this confidence is celebrating the gifts of those around you. Instead of comparing or competing, let's be people who encourage and empower.At this Wednesday’s Creative Collective, we get to do just that – celebrate the diverse forms of creativity and stir up the dormant gifts for the future. Hope to see you at James L. Knight Center for this special event.—

Creative Collective

Wednesday, June 287:30PMJames L. Knight Center - Ashe Auditorium400 SE 2nd AveMiami, FL 33131