For those of you who are interested in testing your creativity, there are several tests out there to measure your ability for 1) divergent thinking 2) convergent thinking 3) artistic assessments 4) creative self assessments. For an overview of the creativity tests available, you can click here to be directed to a website set up by Gayle Dow of Indiana University.
It is my personal opinion that creativity is both your natural state and something that is happening all the time. The more that we can let go and relax into our natural state of being, the more creativity happens on its own. Still, sometimes it is valuable to have feedback on what you may be able to do to improve your creativity or to consider how you might collaborate with others on certain projects, combining your strengths with the strengths of another to execute a single creative project. In my work as an architectural designer, for example, I am constantly soliciting the opinions of architects, engineers, interior designers, and clients in order to come up with the best creative solution for a space.
If you choose to take these tests, please don’t pigeonhole yourself based on the results. Create a bit of emotional distance from the outcome and be objective with the information you receive. As Buddhist author and Nun Pema Chodren once said, “There is no such thing as a true story.” Don’t get wrapped up in what you think you are. The basis for a truly creative life is the ability to move beyond what you think things are and experience the world directly.
Good luck, and be nice to yourself!