In this episode Monica Kang talks about how to use creativity to become a more effective leader, why creativity is the #1 skill set organizations are looking for and how to build an innovative workplace culture.
Monica is the Founder and CEO of InnovatorsBox. Prior to launching Innovator’s Box she lived and worked in five countries abroad including the United Nations in Geneva and Chosun Newspaper in Seoul.
Episode Highlights
• 1:22 – Monica’s miraculous pivot from anti-nuclear proliferation activist to startup CEO
• 3:27 – Why Monica says creativity isn’t about being right-brained or artsy (and what it’s really about)
• 5:45 – The high cost of lack of creativity in business
• 10:17 – How to build an innovative workplace culture
• 19:43 -Small steps you can take to be more creative and innovative at work
• 22:13 – Why “creativity” is the most important skill set organizations are looking
• 26:21 – How to use creativity to become a more effective leader
• 30:27 – How to use your passion to fuel innovation and creativity day to day
• 32:13 – How she learned let go of people and situations that cause self-doubt
1. Favorite book for women?
- Tiny Beautiful things: Advice on Love and Life from Dear Sugar by Cheryl Strayed. Monica says, “She is honest, empathetic, critical and vulnerable.”
2. Favorite self-care hack?
- “Get enough sleep and take a 30-60 minute walk, especially when I’m stressed. And traveling, it allows me to be more observant and open.”
3. Best piece of advice and who gave it to you?
- “Remember to say thank you” from Cheryl Strayed’s book,
- “The most important thing is invisible to your eye” from The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry. Because of it’s message about It being aware, mindful, and helping others.
4. One piece of advice you’d give your 5 years younger self?
- “Be patient. Don’t worry, your hard work is going to pay off”
Resources and People Mentioned
• InnovatorsBox website, Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram
• Wired to Create: Unraveling the Mysteries of the Creative Mind by Scott Barry Kaufman & Carolyn Gregoire
