Today, I want to share a bit about how creative thinking was a game changer in my own life, especially when it came to my career path—and guess what? It can do the same for you because creativity isn’t just for artists- it’s for everyone.
Right out of college, I landed a job as a sixth-grade teacher at a local Catholic school. The pay was $12,265 a year. While I was grateful for the opportunity, my dreams were much bigger than my paycheck. And although I was told I was lucky to get that job, part of me knew I needed and wanted more.
In the spring of that year, I sent out many job applications hoping to get into the public school system where the benefits and salaries were known to be a lot better. I got zero responses. Not a single interview invite came my way. It was a frustrating experience. I knew I had to try something different—something creative.
One day, on a total whim, I decided to visit my old elementary school hoping it would be the answer. I walked into the building filled with nervousness, not sure what to expect. Mr. Gray, who was the principal during my elementary years, was surprisingly still in charge. He recognized me immediately, which was a relief and an icebreaker. Although he didn’t have a job for me, he did make a couple of calls, and next thing I knew, I had an interview lined up with another familiar face from my past—My first-grade teacher, Mrs. Bachman. Long story short, I got the job. My salary more than doubled.
This experience taught me something extremely important: creativity isn’t just about art or writing poetry. It’s about thinking differently and solving problems in new ways. Don’t be afraid to think outside the box, especially when traditional methods aren’t bringing you closer to your goals. Whether your job hunting, looking to improve a relationship, or starting a new business, creative thinking can open doors you didn’t even know were there.
So, what about you? How can you apply creative thinking to shake up your routine or tackle a challenge? It doesn’t have to be monumental—sometimes, even the smallest changes can lead to
big results.
Remember, every one of us is an artist in some way or another. So, grab your metaphorical paintbrush and start creating. You might be surprised at what you can achieve when you think a little differently.
Cheers to showing up like the masterpiece you are!
PS This is a more recent photo of me where I am also engaging in creative thought.
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