Many writers and scholars have attempted to define and study both leadership and creativity, yet there are no universal definitions of either concept. If creativity is the making and communicating of meaningful new connections, and leadership can be approached as an influence process, then creative leadership is that kind of influence process that results in meaningful, new connections.

Historically, the study of leadership was initially approached single-dimensionally—the search for the traits and characteristics of great leaders. This was followed by two-dimensional approaches that examined leadership style as a blend of concern for people with a concern for tasks. More recently, the study of leadership has taken a multidimensional approach—including leader-member exchanges, relationships, contingency, and situational theories.

When one considers innovation, transformation, and growth, the kinds of challenges ...