1. Carry a notebook everywhere you go
Creative ideas can come from anywhere. You may be sitting on a bus
thinking to yourself or lying in bed trying to sleep. In any case,
inspiration can come from anything you saw, heard or smelt. Whatever
ideas come to mind, make sure that you have something to write them
down.
A notebook and a pen is always handy, but if you happen not have them on you. An application like
Evernote is a good way of putting down your thoughts.
2. Relax
How many times have you come up with a creative idea when you’re
stressed – or when you have had other things on your mind? That’s right,
not very many!
We tend to come up with ideas when our minds are clear. And it has
the chance to run wild with no distractions. Or when you’re in the
middle of a routine, say taking a shower.
Relax whenever you can and reflect on past experiences. Make a note
of what you were feeling when you came up with a good idea and use that
feeling next time you need to be creative.
3. Create an inspiring workspace
You spend a lot of time in your working space. Whether it’s your
office or home study, you can organize it so that it provokes creative
thinking.
Get rid of clutter that distracts or prompts you to feel that you
need to clean up. And surround yourself with pictures (or items) that
relax you and invoke emotions that get you in the mood of thinking
differently.
4. Go for a walk or jog
So you’re stuck on a problem and not getting anywhere by sitting at your desk thinking about it.
Then it might be a good idea to go outside for a walk or a jog. This
exposes you to an endless supply of things to use as inspiration. Not
only do you get some fresh air, but also you’re alone with your
thoughts.
5. Put on some music
This is about setting the mood and getting you in the right frame of mind.
You don’t necessarily have to listen to music. There many other ways
you can set the mood, such as letting the sunshine in the room or
drinking coffee – it’s completely up to you.
What works for me is listening to classical or lounge music to relax my mind. However, what works for me may not work for you!
6. Sit somewhere and just observe
This is similar to taking a walk where you collect and process everything around you.
Sitting down somewhere where there’s high amount of people passing by
serves the same purpose as going out for a walk. Although you could sit
down at a park, you can also go to a café and
watch what’s happening around you.
7. Talk to other people
Go outside and talk to other people. Social interactions can help you develop your thoughts and ideas.
Talk to a co-worker about your problem, and during that conversation a
word might trigger a response in your mind for a new idea. Your
co-worker can even give you feedback and help you build on your line of
thought.
8. Do something different
When it comes to creativity – It’s all about opening your mind to different stimuli.
That’s why everyday you should break from your routine at least once.
Take a different route to work, eat something different, try out a new
sport or go for long hike up mountain or through the forest.
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Kostas Papageorgiou
