Lobotomy: new book closes “destructive” gap between creativity and business

While the industrial revolution changed almost every aspect of daily life for the better, it left a huge sociological and psychological scar – the separation of thought processes associated with the rational mind from the intuitive, and the logical from the creative. It kick-started a new culture, one where rational thought was rewarded and creativity was radically devalued. 250 years later, the gap has widened to the point where it severely threatens the very fabric of humanity.

Nobody knows this better than Mike Fitzsimons and Sue Bradley; two music professionals who have also excelled in the world of business. And, before anyone asks, they are not two different skillsets, but rather a multi-disciplinary approach the authors coin as “smart thinking”.

In their new book, ‘Lobotomy: The Marginalisation of Creativity and How to Become Human Again’, the authors lay the gap between business and creativity bare, before helping readers close it in a way that will make them more prosperous and successful than they ever thought possible.

Synopsis:

Modern society and work have been radically separated into “creative” and “financial” pursuits. This ideological “lobotomy” has led to silo thinking, stilted growth and personal dissatisfaction for millions of people trapped in the belief that they are either a “creative” or a “business” person. The conflict threatens to undermine our entire future if not resolved soon. This enlightening book reveals how these prejudices hold both sides back, shines a light on this crucial debate and provides practical advice on how to close the ever-widening gap — allowing everyone to embrace both aspects of themselves and to grow personally and professionally.

“I suppose the best way I can describe the book is a business book for creatives and a creative book for business people,” explains Fitzsimons, a published musician and social researcher who advises to the UK Government. “It’s also a great book for those fascinated by creativity, innovation and invention– or individuals deeply concerned about the future. It’s amazing how much the gap between business and creativity has morphed society into a mere shadow of its former self.”

Continuing, “And the book is a complete “journey” in itself; starting with an invite for readers to take a powerful test to see if they’ve been “lobotomized”, before they progress to learn the history of this cultural lobotomy and how and why it has grown to become an epidemic-style problem. Next, readers will be compelled to examine their roles and behaviours to see just how far apart these two worlds have become in their own life, before Sue and I serve up some short and long-term antidotes to the problem.”

It’s certainly a powerful read for individuals, companies and top-level policy makers.