“You’re not a creative.”

It’s a simple phrase — but one that can have a lasting impact.

In this Quick Spoon, inspired by a conversation with Jess Lee, Ross explores how quickly we label people at work, and how those labels can shape behaviour in subtle but powerful ways.

From “creative” to “not creative”, “strategic” to “not strategic”, these categories can influence who speaks up, who contributes, and who holds back.

But creativity — like many capabilities — isn’t a fixed identity or a job title.

It shows up in how we solve problems, connect ideas, and approach challenges.

And the real risk?

We don’t just apply labels to others — we start to believe them about ourselves.

What This Episode Explores

• How labels form quickly in workplace settings
• Why labels can limit contribution
• The difference between identity and capability
• How internalised labels shape behaviour
• A simple reflection to increase awareness

Key Idea

The labels we carry can shape how we show up — often without us realising.

Reflection

What label might be shaping how you show up?

For those of you who are new to People Soup - welcome - it's great to have you here - I aim to provide you with ingredients for a better work life from behavioural science and beyond. For those of you who are regular P Soupers - thanks for tuning in - we love it that you're part of our community.

• Connect with Jess on LinkedIn
• Jess' Website

Visit Ross' Website.

Connect with Ross on LinkedIn

People Soup on Instagram which also features plenty of Ross' photos of the Andalusian life

He's now also on Bluesky

The People Soup Website on CAPTIVATE

Jess: we were in kind of an innovation

type

session

and somebody said to me, well, you can't.

Get involved in this because you're not a creative.

Ross: Hi there, and welcome to People Soup, quick Spoon, real conversations about work leadership and being human grounded in behavioral science, with practical ideas you can actually use. I'm Ross McIntosh, and here's your quick spoon.

This one's about the labels we carry at work.That moment Jess describes, being told

she wasn't a creative, ,

and it shows how quickly we label people at work. Creative, not creative. Strategic, not strategic, but creativity isn't a job title. It shows up in how we solve problems,

How we connect ideas,

They don't just limit how we see others. They limit how we see ourselves. So maybe just notice this week, what label might be shaping how you show up? That's your quick spoon. Until next time, take care.