The Essential Role of Creativity in Happiness and Child Development

Creativity is the bedrock of happiness and an indispensable component of a child’s development. It teaches children to find solutions to problems and understand “how things work,” which is crucial for brain health and overall well-being. A world devoid of creativity would be unimaginably dull and lifeless. Consider everything around you—the chair you sit on, the car you drive, the architecture of your home, the glasses you drink from, your home or office decor, and even the clothes you wear. Each is a testament to human creativity. The decisions we make in decorating our homes, choosing our attire, and living our lives are all creative expressions.

Do you love to create or admire those who possess an innate gift for originality, innovation, and imagination? Unfortunately, both public education and the general public often undervalue the arts despite their critical importance. Creativity is what fuels happiness and enables us to live fully. Art making requires critical thinking, problem-solving, experimentation, and discovery. The rewards of creativity go far beyond producing a simple drawing.

Creativity is Liberating

In education, if art were to receive a symbolic trophy, it might read “Mis-Understood.” This is particularly true regarding how society perceives its value. Regardless of your current beliefs about creativity and the arts, I hope the reflections below inspire you to embrace the undeniable truth that creativity and art education are vital to experiencing life fully. Creativity liberates the most special parts of our spirits and souls, regardless of age.

John Barnes eloquently states, “psychologists have been telling us for years that we only utilize about 10% of our brain. I believe this 10% is our linear, logical, intellectual side. The other 90% of who we are—our essence, the creative, intuitive, feeling, and wise aspect—has been ignored and even ridiculed in our education.”

Freedom of expression is your birthright

Personally, creativity has been my greatest refuge through life’s ups and downs. I revel in life because I appreciate the beauty surrounding me. By instilling this same sense of art appreciation and joy of creativity in our children, we bestow upon them the gift of freedom and happiness, which is their birthright. Creativity is not just an activity; it is essential to happiness and to truly living.

Happiness is about self-expression, dreaming, and creating with imagination. It’s about experiencing our essence by nurturing our intuitive, innovative, and imaginative gifts. Embracing life through the joy of creativity is the key to living fully.

Happiness Boost for Adults

Engaging in creative activities is vital for adults as it stimulates brain function and enhances overall cognitive and emotional well-being. As adults immerse themselves in creative endeavors—whether it’s painting, music, writing, or any form of artistic expression—they activate various brain regions, strengthening neural connections and promoting neuroplasticity.

Neuroscience shows that the creative process involves both hemispheres of the brain, improving problem-solving skills and cognitive flexibility. This interplay between creativity and cognition boosts happiness, as creative activities are known to release endorphins, the body’s natural mood enhancers.

By participating in these activities, adults not only find joy and relaxation but also cultivate a sharper, more resilient mind, which contributes to long-term mental health and personal fulfillment. Embracing creativity in adulthood fosters a deeper sense of purpose and satisfaction, enriching life at every stage.

Build a creativity practice