“The level of conformity in an organisation is in inverse proportion to its creative ability.”~ Russell L. Ackoff _ American organizational theorist
The Idea that was silenced
At Stockland(Click Here), I brought an idea full of potential, ready to make an impact. But as it stood there, eager to be heard, it met with a wall of indifference. The atmosphere stifled any chance of creativity taking root.
- Atmosphere: The room felt heavy, like a lid over a flame, slowly snuffing out innovation.
- Reaction: My idea was brushed aside without serious discussion. The lack of engagement felt even more defeating than outright rejection.
- Emotional Impact: It wasn’t just overlooked—it was erased. Each time it was dismissed, the walls felt like they were closing in, choking the possibility of change before it could even begin.
This idea, once full of promise, was forced into oblivion, crushed under the weight of conformity. Stockland wasn’t just a place where creativity was ignored; it was a place where fresh thinking was extinguished before it could even spark.
The idea that soared
Now contrast that with my experience at CIMIC, where creativity was actively nurtured and celebrated. This environment didn’t just hear ideas—it embraced them, allowing them to flourish.
- Atmosphere: The room buzzed with energy, alive with the possibility that each idea could grow into something powerful.
- Reaction: My idea wasn’t just acknowledged; it was embraced, built upon, and made even stronger.
- Emotional impact: Instead of being stifled, creativity soared. Each piece of feedback wasn’t a barrier but a stepping stone, opening more doors and possibilities with each conversation.
At CIMIC(Click Here) , creativity became a driving force. It wasn’t just a feel-good initiative—it turned into tangible business outcomes. By allowing ideas to thrive, we created real value and innovation.
The cost of conformity: What about your ideas?
Now, take a moment and reflect on your own organization. How are ideas treated in your workplace?
- Are they dismissed without discussion, like at Stockland?
- Or are they nurtured and turned into innovative solutions, as they were at CIMIC?
When ideas are silenced by conformity, you’re not just missing out on one good idea—you’re losing the potential for transformative innovation. What could your business be building, right now, if creativity wasn’t stifled?
Break the cycle: Fuel innovation
At CIMIC, we saw firsthand the power of nurturing creativity. When inclusivity and fresh thinking were prioritized, progress accelerated. But at Stockland, where conformity ruled, innovation was lost to bureaucracy.
If you’re tired of watching potential ideas dissolve under layers of red tape, it’s time to change course. Imagine creating a workplace where:
- Every voice—LGBTQ leaders, women, Aboriginal perspectives—is not only heard but woven into the fabric of innovation.
- Creativity isn’t stifled by fear, but fuelled by openness.
Let’s help you build a system where innovation flourishes, diversity is celebrated, and your business is poised for long-term success. Together, we can unlock your team’s full potential.
What’s next?
Can you feel it? That sense of something slipping away, of opportunities lost before they even have a chance to materialize? Right now, your business could be on the brink of untapped innovation, waiting for you to seize it.
- Consultancy: There’s no way to teach all of this in a blog post, which is why I’m offering one-on-one consultancy( Click Here). Together, we’ll develop an environment where your ideas aren’t just heard—they are transformed into powerful, profitable innovations.
Are you ready to unlock that potential and lead your organization into a future filled with creative possibilities?
Further links :
Wiley Online library : The Relationship Between Creativity and Conformity Among Preschool Children
Medium : Creativity in Conformity
Further books :
