There is a creative genius in each us. Here are five ways to unlock yours!
What is Creativity
Often mistaken as purely artistic skill, creativity is much broader. At its heart, it’s the ability to generate novel and valuable ideas or solutions. It involves seeing the world from fresh perspectives, connecting seemingly unrelated concepts, and moving beyond conventional thinking patterns. It’s about imagination put into action, whether solving a complex problem or finding a new way to express yourself.
How to Unlock Creativity
How can you tap into your own creativity? Here is where to start, how to capture and nurture your creativity, and how to take your creativity from idea to reality!
1. Nurture Curiosity by Asking Questions
Regularly and frequently ask “why?” “why not?” and “what if?” Step outside your comfort zone. Challenge the status que and traditional thought. Challenge your processes, systems, results, inputs, goals, relationships, and team by asking “why” and “what if”!
2. Keep a "Thoughts Book" and "Questions Journal"
Ideas in the mind are like birds in the wind — frequent, flying, and fleeting! So capture your ideas with a “thoughts book” and “questions journal” so that you don’t lose them.
What is a “questions journal”? At the end of everyday, take 2-5 minutes to “ideate” and write down in a notebook two “ideas” you came up with. At the end of the week you’ll have 14 ideas. Some will be good. Some will be bad. Some will be life-altering!
What is a “thoughts book”? It is a simple notebook where you can jot down ideas, and let them take shape. If you have a great idea, let it take shape in your thoughts book! One notebook can be both your “thoughts book” and “questions journal.” Your daily idea lists can be maintained in the back, and the front can be where you explore and develop ideas.
3. Schedule Time for Creativity
Schedule time as you pre-week plan for “creative thinking,” “brainstorming,” and even daydreaming or “unfocused thought.” Let your mind take flight! For the next 21 days, we also invite you to try taking time at the end of each day to capture two ideas in your questions journal. Make it a routine. Your creative genius will skyrocket!
4. Stimulate Your Mind
Engage with diverse ideas and thinking, whether through reading, podcasts, conversation, continuing education, collaborations, or travel to ignite your inspiration.
5. Embrace Failure
Don’t fear failure; see it as a stepping stone. Fail forward, and never give up!
Where Creativity Matters
Creativity isn’t confined to a studio or lab. It enhances problem-solving at work, at home, and with people. At home, it can transform cooking, decorating, or planning activities. It improves communication in relationships by finding new ways to connect and understand others. Even navigating daily errands or managing your time can benefit from a creative approach. Creativity matters in all facets of your life!
Wrapping Up
Creativity is a powerful, inherent human ability applicable to every facet of life. By understanding it, consciously practicing ways to unlock it, and applying it broadly, you can enrich your experiences and find more effective, fulfilling solutions. Embrace your inner innovator this week with these best practices! That’s becoming your best!
“You can’t use up creativity. The more you use the more you have.”— Maya Angelou
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