Lockdown’s impact on creativity during COVID-19.

Lockdown's impact on creativity during COVID-19.

The Surprising Creativity Boost during Lockdown: How COVID-19 Unleashed a Wave of Innovation

New Normal Health

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Research shows that people were more creative during the first COVID-19 lockdown. Lisa Schaetzle/Getty Images

The American Psychological Association defines “creativity” as “the ability to produce or develop original work, theories, techniques, or thoughts.” This definition applies not only to artistry but also to everyday activities in which one takes existing elements and creates something new — just like using sourdough bread ingredients to make a pandemic food staple.

During the first COVID-19 lockdown, a study conducted by the Paris Brain Institute at Sorbonne University sought to explore the impact of the pandemic on people’s creativity. The researchers conducted a French-language online survey to gather insights into individuals’ experiences with creativity during the lockdown in France. The study aimed to address the apparent paradox of heightened creativity in a time of unusual stress.

Surprisingly, the study’s 343 participants reported being more creative during the lockdown compared to the period before. These findings were published in the journal Frontiers in Psychology, shedding light on the unique nature of creativity during challenging times.

Unlocking the Creativity Boom

To understand the specific creative activities people engaged in during the lockdown, the researchers presented participants with a list of 28 commonly used creative activities, such as painting, cooking, sewing, gardening, writing, and decorating. The study’s respondents identified the top five creative activities they pursued: cooking, sports and dance programs, self-help programs, and gardening.

Despite the obstacles posed by the pandemic, the study found no clear indication that they hindered creativity. In fact, the researchers highlighted that constraints and obstacles often ignite the creative mind to find innovative ways to achieve goals.

Interestingly, the two most significant factors that influenced a person’s level of creativity during the lockdown were emotional changes and the availability of free time. Emotional changes, such as shifts in mood and motivation, played a crucial role in boosting creativity. Additionally, the researchers found that having more free time correlated with increased creativity.

The Role of Emotion in Creativity

Previous research has indicated a correlation between a positive mood and creative activity. The latest study confirmed that participants’ affective states aligned with their self-perceived creativity changes. Positive moods were linked to greater creativity, while negative affective states were associated with decreased creativity.

Dr. Alizée Lopez-Persem, co-first author of the study, proposes a potential explanation for these findings. She suggests that creative expression allows individuals to better manage their negative emotions linked to confinement, ultimately leading to a better overall experience during difficult periods.

Embracing Free Time and Openness

One unexpected gift of the pandemic was the return of free time for many individuals due to the elimination of commuting. The study found a clear link between an increase in free time and higher levels of creativity. However, this was not a universal experience, with parents, for example, potentially having less free time due to children being confined at home.

In addition to free time, another significant factor contributing to creativity during the lockdown was openness. Psychology Today defines openness as receptivity to new ideas and experiences. The study’s survey included questions about participants’ openness, which correlated with their self-perceived creativity changes and the rated creativity of the activities they performed during the lockdown.

Although openness played a role in creativity, the study highlighted that emotional changes and free time had a more significant impact on creativity beyond an individual’s openness level.

The Silver Lining in Challenging Times

The study conducted during the first COVID-19 lockdown reveals a surprising increase in creativity among individuals. Despite the stress and constraints of the pandemic, people found solace and inspiration in activities that allowed them to express their creativity.

These findings emphasize the resilience of the human spirit and the ability to adapt and find moments of joy even in challenging circumstances. Creativity became a powerful outlet for managing negative emotions, transforming daily routines, and fostering personal growth.

So, next time you find yourself facing a difficult situation, remember that creativity can be your secret weapon in navigating the storm. Embrace your emotions, seize your free time, and welcome new experiences. Who knows? You might just unlock your hidden creative potential and discover a world of possibilities within yourself.