Creativity and problem solving

Why do we create? We create because we look for solutions to a problem we are facing.

Creativity is exciting and brings with it fresh challenges and problems. Our enthusiasm could take over, but as we delve further in to creative activities, we can sometimes find that what appeared to be relatively simple is now something far more complex and the activity itself has sub-problems that need addressing. Under-estimating the existence of sub problems can lead to even further delays and could completely demotivate to such an extent that the activity is no longer appealing.

These sub problems, or problem traps as I call them, can seriously derail any creative activity. As the above diagram illustrates, the blue line is the ideal development curve, which asymptotically approaches 100% . The red curve shows a number of minima, or "problem traps" which delay the development . In fact, it is possible, that these minima can sometimes last even longer before converging to a solution. This is illustrated in aqua blue dotted line, labelled as converging problem traps.

The dotted line in red or diverging problem traps, represents the case where the problems encountered during the creative process are so complex, the chance of solving the problem diminish, until such point where the individual gives up.

What can be done to avoid or reduce problems traps?

• Knowledge/experience - lack of sufficient knowledge/experience of the appropriate area, hence experimentation to improve knowledge leads to delays
• Risk mitigation - sometimes its easier to start from a known solution, understand its limitation and create an addendum. This way the risk is lower and it may be possible to converge to a solution faster
• Exhaustive verification - any good idea must be verified over extremes and compared to known solutions in an un-biased manner. The new solution may look elegant and appealing, however, it may fall flat under extremes compared to well known solutions

Not all problems have perfect solutions. Problems today are multi-dimensional and generally do not lend themselves to simple solutions. The ability to exercise judgement and chose an appropriate path, could make a significant difference towards problem solving . The path itself may deploy multiple solutions in sequence, thus the creative nature of solving the problem becomes one of choosing which combination of solutions yields the best solution in the shortest space of time. The more creative problems we solve, the better we get.

• Distractions- other pressing activities

Distractions occur in life and will definitely add delays to the creative process. In many cases, one cannot delegate certain activities, therefore, one has to manage one's time effectively. From experience, I have noticed that should a distraction occur during a creative process, being able to remember exactly where I left the problem was critical, thus returning to the problem after the distraction, reduces inefficiency. I find it helpful to jot down some notes highlighting where I left the problem before I move to resolve the distracting matter.

• Planning - underestimation of the problem space

Careful planning is key, but not planning specifically in terms of timescales. Rather its a case of asking all the questions relevant to a successful completion of creating something new.

• Tenacity - just how keen are we to do this

Balancing all the above in order to avoid problem traps, is difficult in itself, however, the more we try to create, the better we get. The first time we attempt a problem, even with all the tools at our disposal, we may experience the stationary regions. However by continuously practicing problem solving, we get better and better. Every creative person at some point in their development, has experienced these. Therefore the most important thing to do is not to give up, but keep trying....a person training for a marathon doesn't give up on her/his first day !