In the URL and IRL worlds, there is a narrative that only certain individuals fall into the category of ‘being creative’. So, I’m here to clear up some big old myths about ‘creativity’ and crystallise who a Creative Business Leader might be.

First of all, I don’t believe that in order to be a creative business leader, you must be someone who is a ‘maker’.

You’re not only someone who went to fine art or creative school, following a super traditional ‘creative’ track. This is not a trait reserved only for designers, artists, photographers or scriptwriters.

And, cue a slightly unpopular point of view, as a brand strategist and designer myself — I am here to work and collaborate with people who are outside the norm of my own industry. People who I will be challenged by and learn from. And vice versa.

A creative business leader, or how I love to describe it – an artful founder – to me is not limited to literal artistic or traditionally ‘creative’ output.

An artful founder is a business person, who is an expert in their field.

You’re savvy. You provide a high quality service which shifts and pivots the experience of your audience for the better. You’re respectful of how that works with your own needs and life, and your brand is SO intrinsic to how you communicate this experience.

This belief is also backed up by the super wise Julia Cameron who wrote The Artists’ Way in 1991. I love this article by The New Yorker on her approach, which essentially challenges your inner naysayer and encourages you to shift your perspective on your life and work, through the use of “creative thought”. Cameron encourages simple daily mindset exercises and tools to enhance your thinking patterns, and disrupt preconceived notions.

So, who might be a Creative and Artful Founder?

Let’s break down examples of who might be a creative business leader. I might surprise you a little here. Anyone can be a creative business leader. Yes – you read correctly.

You might be an interior designer crafting a workplace. Or you could be a therapist or psychologist offering creative approaches for emotional wellbeing.

Let’s say you are a management consultant who works with only coaching professionals. Perhaps you are a naturopath working with women to get their gut health, inflammation and life balance in check.

You could also be a lawyer working with illustrators and filmmakers.

Alternatively, you may be a facial therapist working with patients on lymphatic drainage, boosting their confidence.

All said and done, I believe anyone can be a creative business leader, and be artful in what they do. You are a founder, with a service and an artful, creative outcome. You are modern, thought provoking and changing the game. Changing your game.

So, think you are not ‘creative’ in business? Think again.

I’ve got news, you are a creative business leader. You’re artful.

You use critical thinking and ideas to provide lasting, supportive and game changing solutions in the art of YOUR industry. That is true creativity.

Next time you’re doubting or have disbelief, take a minute to reconsider your perception of artful. 🫶🏽

Here is a journal entry on how to boost creative confidence as a small business owner with 3 simple mindset shifts. Check it out ☺️