When we think of creativity, our minds frequently paint images of genius figures like Mozart and Michelangelo, crafting masterpieces in moments of divine inspiration. It's a charming notion that creativity is a rare gift, bestowed upon a chosen few. But is this the heart of innovation?

In reality, creativity isn't just the privilege of the gifted. It's a journey of problem-solving. Instead of moments of divine revelation, it frequently comes from recognizing a challenge and seeking a solution.

Let's take Mozart as an example. Many believe that his masterpieces were products of spontaneous genius, as they simply flowed into his mind. The truth is that Mozart worked hard. He would sketch out his compositions, make changes, and sometimes hit a wall. Typically, he sought inspiration from his surroundings. Even those we consider geniuses put in effort and time, continuously refining their work.

Our perception of creativity has been restricted by the respective timelines. In times of ancient civilizations, people honored discoveries but believed that only gods could truly create. The idea of human creation became more acceptable during the Renaissance, although it was still reserved for the so-called “great men.”

Now, let’s shift to modern times. In 1999, the author coined the term “Internet of Things.” Back then, Kevin worked at Proctor & Gamble, which had problems with selling as they couldn’t find best-selling lipstick in the required color in stock. He used RFID tags and antennas to locate the needed item. Here, creativity means analyzing the root cause and developing a technology-driven solution. It isn't about waiting for a lightning bolt of genius but about systematic troubleshooting.

Creativity is about seeing a problem and having the courage to tackle it. At its core, creativity is about continuous effort and resolution. It's tempting to believe that creations spring forth in a moment of divine inspiration. However, in the realm of innovation, nothing ever emerges in isolation. Each creation is a high tide, a tapestry woven from the threads of many unsung and ordinary contributors.