"To be truly happy, people need to create an identity not by buying it off the shelf," says global best-selling author Richard Florida, "But by engaging in a creative endeavor."
Years ago, Florida coined the phrase "Creative Class," referring to those who fill the fastest growing, most vital segment of the American workforce: thinkers, innovators, and decision makers. This group consists of scientists, engineers, managers, innovators, and people in research and development, as well as artists, writers, and musicians; they are where America can find her edge in building prosperous, stable, growing towns.
As Florida spoke recently to a room full of Howard County leaders, including Ken Ulman, Pamela Klahr, Dick Story, Steve Sachs, Liz Bobo, and Mary Kay Sigaty, he asserted that every human being is creative, but we have to learn how to harness this creativity in ourselves, our children, our communities, and our businesses. In short, he calls on us as a society to recognize and engage our creative faculties, thus driving America forward with that entrepreneurial spirit that has always been our strength and is, he says, our hope for the future.
Florida studies cities and towns -- how they work, why they work, who lives where, and why. AND... he really likes Howard County. In fact, he really likes the entire corridor from Boston to DC in terms of attracting and engaging members of the creative class, thereby flourishing.
Florida's latest book, Who's Your City, reveals the results of broad research on what actually does make people happy. According to Florida, it's the work we do, the close and loving relationships we have, and the place where we live. When it comes to place, Howard County makes people happy, I was glad to hear him say. Making people happy means they want to stay. Moreover, it means they want to move in. The factors in making a place desirable? Physical and natural beauty. Citizenry that is diverse, energized, and guided by good leaders. Great educational, social, and cultural opportunities.
Our county has all of that, Florida says, and we can stay out in front by focusing on creativity. we need to support and reward innovation, celebrate and nurture the arts, and value creativity -- in everyone.
I am proud that through KidzArt's many creative enrichment programs in our area, our little company is part of Howard County's winning equation.
Florida's talk was presented by the Howard County Chamber of Commerce in partnership with Howard Community College, Howard County Library, The Horizon Foundation, and the Howard County Economic Development Authority.
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