A creative environment is one where people feel comfortable in expressing their ideas and where constructive support is given in the development and analysis of those ideas.

You are in a creative environment when:

* Your ideas are listened to and investigated before being judged.
* You feel appreciated when you suggest new ideas.
* You can suggest solutions to other groups without feeling like you are intruding.
* Your manager spends time with you and explains the reasons and politics behind projects.
* You are given the freedom to do your work in your own way.
* You are not observed or judged all the time.
* You do not have to pass all of your messages through your manager.
* Experimental methods are encouraged.
* You feel comfortable talking with anyone in your organization (top managers included).
* You feel comfortable talking to your subordinates without having to order them about.
* There is someone that will listen to your ideas.
* The generation of good ideas is rewarded, verbally or otherwise.
* You are treated with respect and as someone who can contribute to the organization.
* You are appreciated for what you do.
* You are appreciated for who you are.