The foundation of our journey

In the circular model, we place four values – Curious, Creator, Courage, and Care – at the four cardinal points, representing the core directions of our journey.

Curious (North)

Curious sits at the North, representing the beginning of every creative journey. Curiosity is about exploration and embracing endless questions. It’s the mindset that opens up new possibilities and pushes us to seek understanding. By nurturing curiosity, we ignite the spark that leads to discovery and innovation.

Creator (South)

At the South lies Creator, where ideas are transformed into reality. While curiosity fuels inspiration, the creator brings those ideas to life through action and dedication. Being a creator means actively building, shaping, and making things happen in the world. It grounds the process, turning vision into tangible outcomes.

Courage (East)

To the East, we have Courage – the value that pushes us forward, even in the face of uncertainty. Courage is about taking bold steps, confronting challenges, and stepping into the unknown. Even small, courageous actions can lead to significant breakthroughs. Without courage, curiosity and creativity remain untapped potential.

Care (West)

Balancing courage, we find Care to the West. Care is about empathy, compassion, and sustainability, both for ourselves and others. It reminds us that the creative process is a long journey, and to thrive, we must nurture our well-being and the well-being of those around us. This value ensures that we create with mindfulness, maintaining balance and support for the long term.

Connecting the quadrants

In between the cardinal values are four supporting Cs – Creative, Commitment, Co-create, and Celebration – which bridge the connections between each quadrant, adding depth and flow to the model.

Creative (Northeast)

Positioned between Curious and Courage, Creative represents the power of thinking beyond boundaries and embracing playfulness. True creativity comes from expressing your unique self, finding innovative solutions, and allowing ideas to flow freely. Creativity is essential for both discovery and boldness – it thrives when curiosity and courage come together.

Commitment (Southeast)

Located between Courage and Creator, Commitment embodies the dedication required to move ideas forward. It’s about perseverance and staying focused on the journey, even when challenges arise. Without commitment, creativity and action falter. This value ensures we stay true to our vision, following through with persistence and determination.

Co-create (Southwest)

Between Creator and Care sits Co-create, highlighting the importance of collaboration. No great idea flourishes in isolation. Co-creation is about working with others, sharing ideas, and building something greater together. It acknowledges that the best results come from collective effort, blending the power of creation with the nurturing aspect of care.

Celebration (Northwest)

Finally, between Care and Curious is Celebration, reminding us to enjoy the journey and recognise progress along the way. Celebration is about taking time to acknowledge achievements, both big and small, and finding joy in the process. It brings a sense of fulfilment and helps us recharge, fueling our curiosity for the next steps.

How the 9 Cs work together

The circular design of the 9 Cs model shows how each value flows into the next, creating a continuous cycle of growth, creativity, and collaboration. Clarity, at the centre, keeps everything aligned and focused, while the four cardinal Cs – Curious, Creator, Courage, and Care – represent the core forces that drive us forward.

The supporting Cs – Creative, Commitment, Co-create, and Celebration – are the bridges that connect these foundational values, ensuring that the journey is balanced and holistic. Whether you’re starting a new project, collaborating with others, or simply celebrating your progress, these 9 Cs work together to guide you toward meaningful and impactful creation.

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At Curious Creator, these 9 Cs form the foundation of everything we do. They are not just values – they are a way of life. By embracing curiosity, courage, care, and collaboration, and by committing to clarity in all our actions, we believe that we can unlock the full potential within ourselves and those around us.

As you reflect on these values, think about how they can guide your own creative journey. Which of the 9 Cs resonates with you the most?

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