02 Feb 10 Ways to Spark Your Creativity

You may not peg yourself as the “creative type,” but the truth is everyone has the potential for creativity. Finding your creative side is just a matter of finding what inspires you to think outside of the box. Finding ways to spark your creativity could help you problem solve at work or relax at home. Like these inventive kids we previously blogged about, you can do amazing things with a little bit of imagination.

1.Believe You’re Creative

“It’s a real cop-out to say, ‘well, I’m just not creative’,” says Tina Seelig, a Professor at Stanford. Humans come with built-in creativity. You just have to find the right outlet. Not everyone can express themselves creatively in the same way. While one person may enjoy writing another may find their creative side in learning how to make replicas of iconic robots.

To find that side of yourself just takes a little bit of self-discovery and learning. After all, to hone any skill you must learn and practice.

2. Meditate

If you’re just discovering your creative side meditating is a good step to help you become attuned to it. With the hustle and bustle of everyday life, it can be difficult to clear your mind and get into a creative state. If you’re stuck on a problem at work and you keep coming back to the same unsuccessful solution over and over again, try meditating. It can clear your mind and open it to new possibilities.

Studies also show that meditation reduces stress and lowers blood pressure, so what have you got to lose?

3. Take a Shower

NPR suggests that menial tasks like showering, fishing, or driving lend themselves well to allowing your mind to wander. Much like meditating this can open your mind to new possibilities that you hadn’t thought of before. It’s a great way to solve problems or get over that “writer’s block” you may have going on.

4. Write Down Your Dreams

Dreams are weird. That makes them great fodder for story or painting ideas. So if your looking for inspiration look no further than your subconscious mind. Studies have shown that the more often you write down your dreams the more likely you are to remember them.

There are many other benefits of keeping a dream journal says Natural Health. You could learn a little bit more about yourself, it’s therapeutic, it’s good for your psychological health and, as was already discussed, it can inspire creativity.

5. Talk it Out

If you’re having a hard time finding a solution to a problem at work, or you’re having a mental block, discuss the idea with someone. Getting an outside perspective allows you to view the problem differently. You don’t necessarily have to apply their idea but truly listening to what they say could truly benefit you. In his article for 99U, Scott McDowell writes that vigorously debating an idea or view is “one [of] the quickest methods of exposing technical flaws, and paves the way for innovation.” Be sure to keep an open mind when people discuss their ideas with you.

6. Renovate Your Lawn and Landscaping

If none of these ideas have been striking your fancy, but you enjoy yard work, unleash some creativity on your yard. Perhaps add a koi pond, planting some new flower species, or even sculpting your hedges. According to Psychology Today, “creating something can give you a sense of purpose, reduce stress and improve your mood.”  

7. Listen to Music

Listening to music can relax and calm the mind.  Music can also spark new ideas from old ones. Many authors use music to keep their minds rolling and each of them has a different playlist that inspires them. Take your time and experiment to find the perfect playlist for you.

8. Go For a Walk

If you’re strapped for ideas, take a break and go for a walk. Some fresh air and exercise always do the mind and body good. Get the blood pumping and the endorphins secreting. Simply stepping away from the task at hand can let your mind wander, as we mentioned in #4 above. What is more, you might see inspiring sights or bump into people with whom you’ll have interesting conversations.

9. Watch a Funny Video

Relax the mind and watch some funny videos. Browse YouTube for the latest comedy from your favorite vlogger or turn on a video of fuzzy animals to get your daily dose of cuteness overload.  If you can, take a break and watch a rerun of your favorite sitcom. An improvement in your mood can lead to new inspirations and a fresh outlook when you get back to work.

10. Create a Vision Board

If you want to be more creative but don’t feel like you have time for it set goals for yourself just like you would any other project. How do you want to be more creative? What’s the reasoning behind it? Do you want to be a more out of the box thinker at work? Or are you just looking for a new way to relax? Either way, setting and hitting those goals can really boost your self-esteem. The more confidence you have the more likely you are to continue working towards your goals.  

Being creative is a great mental exercise. After seeing your progress you start to feel proud of yourself which can give you the extra edge you need may need to excel in your career or schooling. Not to mention it’s a great way to destress after a long day at work.