Creativity and conflict

Since we humans are both individuals and members of social groups, conflicts are bound to arise.  What I want, what the other wants, what's expected of me; needs are not always easy to reconcile. Usually, conflicts are resolved amicably thanks to social norms about what's polite and ethical.  Sometimes, though, solutions are hard to find. Creativity may be what makes the difference.

The costs of conflict are huge, even on a small, local level. Simple disagreements about little things (like whether that boundary-line tree is in my yard or in yours) can degenerate to violence.  Within families, the cost of unresolved conflict can be damaged or destroyed lives.

If I had to name a single reason that active creativity is so important to me, it would be my conviction that a combination of good will and creativity could reduce interpersonal conflict.  Your creative brain can help you reformulate points of difference, imagine new solutions, and adapt to necessary compromises. Where there was anger, you can create hope.

Every conflict, no matter how small, is an opportunity to envision a more inclusive world for all people.  Actively creative people, if they choose, can make a huge difference just by using their vision and persistence to build bridges between human beings.  What a wonderful world that would be!