Every business (and individual) needs creative thinking to get ahead and stay ahead in today’s fast-moving world, but it’s all too often this high-pressure existence that means we struggle to get our creative juices flowing.
It’s easy to regard creative thinkers as being born that way, and whilst there’s no doubt that some favourable genes can help, the good news is that we all have plentiful reserves of creativity within us. Creative thinking isn’t a talent, it’s a skill that can be practised, nurtured and developed.
Got a task that requires some creative thinking? Here are a few tips to help you along the way…
1) Simply make a start
Procrastination and fear of failure are all too easy to succumb to, but by doing so we become our own biggest hindrance. Be like Nike – JUST DO IT – and the more you work those creative muscles, the easier it’ll become and the more you’ll enjoy it!
2) Banish distractions
In order to maintain laser focus on the task in hand you need zero disturbance. Go somewhere that you can work without interruption and clear your mind by uncluttering your working environment. That means getting rid of anything that could be a distraction…yep, your smartphone included!
3) Time it right
If you’re a morning person then get up early and fit in some creative time before the rest of the world wakes up. However, there’s no point trying to make yourself do this if you’re more of a night-owl – creative thinking isn’t something you can force – in fact the harder you try, usually the harder it is! Everyone’s different so do whatever works best for you.
4) Take breaks and keep hydrated
Nobody can maintain maximum focus indefinitely. Studies have shown that taking breaks helps productivity so next time you have a brain-blockage try getting up, stretching, grabbing a coffee or going for a quick walk (or all of these) to get the blood pumping again. Hydration is also essential so be sure to have a decent sized glass or bottle of water to hand.
5) Ensure you’re getting enough sleep
Many of us don’t sleep as much as we should, and guess what – it doesn’t help us think creatively. Skimping on your slumber can have all kinds of negative side-effects and could lead to feeling burned out which is bound to affect your cognitive function. Being over-tired means you won’t produce your best work so top up with zzz’s and maximise your creativity!
6) Get inspiration from nature
It’s a fact, nature makes you more creative – so go get more of it! We humans weren’t made to be cooped up in an office all day breathing canned air and too much of this really numbs the senses. Try going out for a walk and getting some fresh air in your lungs – I guarantee you’ll return relaxed, revitalised and brimming with creativity!
7) Do something different and be observant
Being creatures of habit is all very well but by doing the same things every day, week in, week out, we can end up stifling our creativity. Grasp every opportunity to do something different, even if it’s as simple as taking a different route to work. Keep your eyes open at all times and you’ll be amazed at what you discover!
There’s a great quote of Henry Ford that goes, “If you think you can do a thing or think you can’t do a thing, you’re right”
So remove those roadblocks and limiting thoughts, imagine that anything is possible and prepare to be surprised by the results you’ll get!
Do you need an injection of creativity to turbo-charge your marketing, grow your business and build your brand? Let’s have a conversation.
