Imitation

While it may not seem like a creativity technique, imitation is a valid method for generating ideas. Original thought is often found in the repetition of others' work. Even our greatest thinkers and inventors often imitated others. Sir Isaac Newton once said, "If I have seen farther it is by standing on the shoulder of giants."

Modern musical artists often cover their favorite tunes. Hip hop artists often sample portions of other artist's songs. In fact, most artists will name several other artists as influences on their music and compositions. What emerges from these forms of imitation are not merely copies, but unique expressions of existing ideas. Music serves as a great example of how imitation can be a path to an original creation.

What can you learn through imitation? In addition to giving you insight into a finished idea, your choices in imitation will also shape your own preferences as you act under the influence of a creative model or mentor. When approached from the standpoint of learning, imitation yields examples and unique knowledge of the creative process. The danger in imitation is copying for the sake of copying, without regard to deriving anything new or useful beyond absconding with the idea. In its worst form, imitation is plagiarism.