Survey finds 80% of people pressured to be more productive than creative

If you're feeling under pressure to work harder rather than more creatively, you're not alone – according to a survey of the general population of the UK conducted by Adobe.

The creative software developer found that more than three quarters of people (78%) surveyed think that creativity is key to driving economic growth, but a massive 80% feel that there is increasing pressure to be more productive rather than creative.

While 51% revealed that they are expected to think creatively whilst at work, just over a third (35%) of those surveyed feel they are living up to their creative potential.

According to Adobe's survey, people are facing a number of challenges to being creative. Almost half of those surveyed (46%) say that they don't have enough time to be creative. Some are encouraged not to take risks, with 69% saying that risk aversion stifles their creativity. Another factor is lack of money – 42% say that they cannot afford to be creative.

Other factors negatively effecting creativity in the UK are self-doubt, with 31% feeling they lack the confidence to be truly creative. The education system is blamed by 61% of respondents who feel that creativity is 'stifled' by the current education system. Despite this, 66% of the people surveyed feel that the younger generation are more creative than those over 35.

However, there is some positive news, 53% said that technology inspires them to create and gives them the tools they need to express their ideas.

A total of 1,000 adults, 18 years or older were questioned online in March and April of this year.

The report has been produced to promote Adobe's Creative Week, which runs in the UK from the 9-13 July. The company says it will be a celebration of creativity in the UK and will consist of a mix of lively debates, creative challenges, demos and case studies – all broadcast live online.

For more details on the event and to sign up for updates, visit the Creative Week website.