Common ways to be generative include caregiving, employment that allows for personal growth, and:

Being generative involves contributing to the well-being and development of others, as well as enhancing one's own personal growth. Creativity is a key aspect of generativity because it allows individuals to express themselves, innovate, and produce work that can influence and inspire others.

Creative endeavors can take many forms, from artistic expression to problem-solving in professional contexts. These activities not only help individuals fulfill their potential but also enable them to pass on skills, knowledge, and values to future generations. This aspect of generativity emphasizes the importance of leaving a legacy through creative contributions, which enriches both the individual and society.

While financial stability, social networking, and higher education can also contribute to a person's capacity for generativity in different ways, they do not embody the same direct link to creative expression and personal growth as creativity does. Therefore, creativity stands out as a fundamental way to engage in generativity, aligning closely with the concept of contributing to the development of oneself and others.