It’s hard to accurately measure the profound impact of supportive relationships on creativity and innovation. However, by examining the roles of friendships, mentorships, and partnerships, we uncover how these connections provide the essential emotional and intellectual encouragement needed for creative thinking. We can keep our eyes open for the right type of relationships that give support to activities that fuel hope in our lives and businesses.
In our podcast, my husband Greg joins me in talking about this important subject of not only as one who is supported by these relationships but also as a supportive cast. Both are extremely important and we expand on some inspiring examples in this article.
Value of Supportive Relationships
Healthy, supportive relationships are crucial for self-discovery, especially when feeling stuck. Instead of endlessly circling in a mental roundabout (as described in "Stop Circling"), these relationships help us untangle thoughts and issues by providing emotional and intellectual support. Such relationships benefit entrepreneurs and small businesses in making life and business decisions and have historically contributed to the expansion of our country.
When President Thomas Jefferson commissioned Meriwether Lewis and William Clark to explore the newly acquired Louisiana Territory and find a route to the Pacific Ocean in 1803, their relationship was one of mutual respect and complementary skills. Lewis, Jefferson's personal secretary and a seasoned army officer, was chosen for his leadership abilities and knowledge of the frontier. He selected Clark, a former army comrade and experienced frontiersman, to share command. Their strong partnership and combined expertise in navigation, diplomacy with Native American tribes, and survival skills were crucial to the success of the expedition, which strengthened their friendship and established them as iconic figures in American history.
Discovering the Right Type of Relationships
Our society tends to put a large focus on the heroes, or those in the limelight. But usually there is a supportive cast behind the scenes that is crucial to their success. Not everyone wants to be in the limelight and gains great satisfaction as a supportive member of a team.
The Wright Brothers, Orville and Wilbur, received significant support and encouragement from a few key individuals throughout their journey to achieve powered flight. They began their serious work on flight in the late 1890s and early 1900s, ultimately achieving their first powered, controlled Wright Flyer at Kitty Hawk in 1903.
Katharine Wright and Octave Chanute were instrumental in the success of the Wright Brothers. Katharine, their younger sister, provided unwavering emotional support, practical assistance, and served as a sounding board for their ideas. Her encouragement helped sustain their motivation during the challenging periods of their experiments. Octave Chanute, an experienced engineer and aviation pioneer, offered technical guidance and mentorship. He shared his own findings and insights, providing critical feedback that helped refine the Wright Brothers' designs. Chanute's connections in the scientific community also helped validate and disseminate their achievements. Together, Katharine's steadfast support and Chanute's expert mentorship were vital to the Wright Brothers' groundbreaking success in achieving powered flight.
Supportive Relationships Fuel Hope for the Future
Fear and greed are significant barriers to the development of new ideas, as they stifle innovation and creativity. Fear, whether of failure, criticism, or the unknown, discourages individuals and organizations from taking risks and exploring uncharted territories. This apprehension can lead to a preference for the status quo, where safety and predictability are prioritized over experimentation and growth. On the other hand, greed can result in short-term thinking and a focus on immediate profits rather than long-term value and sustainable innovation. Overcoming these obstacles requires fostering a culture of curiosity, resilience, and a willingness to embrace both successes and failures in supportive relationships, which eventually fuels hope.
Abigail Adams (1744-1818) was a crucial source of military intelligence for her husband President John Adams and the Continental Congress during the American Revolutionary War. Living in Massachusetts, Abigail had firsthand access to the activities and sentiments of the local population as well as the movements of British troops. Through her detailed and insightful letters, she provided John with valuable information about troop movements, local morale, and the impact of British actions on the civilian population. Her keen observations and timely updates allowed John and his colleagues in the Continental Congress to make more informed decisions. Abigail's role extended beyond mere reporting; her letters also included her astute political opinions and strategic recommendations, reflecting her deep understanding of the revolutionary cause and the challenges it faced.
The Value of Creativity
In Iceland, the long, dark months of winter are brightened by a deep cultural appreciation for the arts, particularly literature. Despite the small population, Iceland boasts the highest number of books written and published per capita in the world. This literary tradition is not just a pastime but a vital element of Icelandic identity and resilience. The arts provide a necessary outlet for expression, creativity, and connection during the extended periods of darkness. Writing and reading become communal activities that bring warmth and enlightenment, fostering a unique cultural richness and intellectual vibrancy. The value placed on the arts in Iceland demonstrates how creativity and storytelling can thrive even in the most challenging environments, offering both solace and stimulation.
As a contrast, in George Orwell's "1984," the Ministry of Truth plays a crucial role in stifling creativity and free thought. This government institution is responsible for altering historical records and propagating lies to ensure the Party's version of reality is the only accepted truth. By constantly rewriting history, the Ministry erases any evidence of dissent or alternative ideas, effectively controlling the past and manipulating the present. This relentless revisionism forces citizens to conform to the Party's ideology, eliminating the possibility of independent, creative thought. The Ministry of Truth's suppression of facts and the perpetual rewriting of history serves as a powerful tool of oppression, silencing any potential for innovation or rebellion against the totalitarian regime.
Application
Supportive Relationships: Seek out the right type of supportive relationships and be open to being both the hero and a supportive cast member for others. These valuable connections may already exist within your current network, just waiting to be nurtured.
Overcoming Fear and Greed: Don’t let fear or greed stifle your creativity. Make time to journal and reflect on your original thoughts. Read extensively and continue expanding your knowledge. Creativity requires time, so create space in your schedule to think and dream.
Extra resources
Undaunted Courage: Meriwether Lewis, Thomas Jefferson, and the Opening of the American West by Stephen Ambrose
Stop Circling; Steps to Escape Endless Roundabouts by Deborah Johnson
1984 by George Orwell *the audio version is also excellent
Abigail Adams: A Life by Woody Holton
- about Greg & Deb
GREG joins DEBORAH as a co-host on Women at Halftime Podcast once a month.
GREG JOHNSON is a former professional athlete, a triple A relief-pitcher with the Cleveland Indians (now Guardians) He also has years of experience in sales and as an R.I.A. (Registered Investment Advisor), owning his own business. He & Deb met on a blind date and have been married over 40 years.
Healthy, supportive relationships are crucial for self-discovery, especially when feeling stuck.
deborah johnson
Thought Leader, Keynote Speaker, Author
If you are interested in growing and learning, check out our online courses here: Online Learning
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