Creativity can flow like water or it can slowly drip out like…water…
The point is that creativity, like everything else in life has ebbs and flows. Unfortunately, sometimes you need to boost your creativity to meet a deadline, complete a project, etc. It’s times like these you’ll end up banging your head against a wall, as pressure mounts and time plows on. I don’t want to see you hurt yourself, so here are a few ways to get those juicy creatives back on track and raring to go.
1. Create a Mind Map
We’ve previously explored mind-mapping in this Lifehack and the dangers of over-mapping here. The reason I advocate looking into the practice is because it helps make everything feel tangible and real. You should always keep notes, whether on your computer or on a notepad. Personally, I try to keep a notepad and camera handy everywhere, although I often fail. Either way, gather your thoughts, and organize them using mind-mapping as a valuable tool.
2. Write Word Lists
Word lists are another favorite of mine, and it’s something we previously touched on in this Lifehack. The difference between mind-mapping and word lists is the difference between a word search and a Mad Lib, and all of the aforementioned activities are great brain exercises to jump-start your creativity. You can create whatever rules you want. Start with a random word as a category, and think of 5-7 associated words. Do it on a board, so you can monitor your progress. By the time you’re done with these critical thinking exercises, you’ll have overcome creative blockades.
3. Draw Timed Sketches
Word games aren’t the only great games for overcoming creativity; artistic endeavors could assist you as well. In fact, we’ve explored several great classic games for thinkers in this Lifehack, and many of them have social media equivalents, so you can involve other people in your creative process. “Draw Something” and “Scribblenauts,” for example, make art an action or turn-based adventure, which stimulates parts of your brain that are vital for creativity.
4. Eliminate Distractions
Don’t get too attached to your tools, gadgets, and the people around you – some days it’s easy, but many times creativity takes focus. Isolate yourself in your creative space as much as possible so you can be both productive and creative. We’ve exhaustively touched on distractions at Lifehack, so here are two links to send you further down the rabbit hole on preventing distractions.
5. Differentiate between Inspiration and Comparison
Comparisons seem harmless, but as we discuss in the rules of creativity, they run counter-intuitive to creative endeavors. It’s also a subject we’ve touched upon in this Lifehack on things positive people don’t do. The reason we’re so vocal against comparison is it invites competition, which can spark, but doesn’t always nurture, creativity. Make sure you understand the difference and use everything in moderation.
6. Steal from Peers
Ideas are free – you have freedom of thought, so by all means, steal ideas from other people. Sure you can’t market an exact replica of an iPod in the U.S., but even that’s possible. What’s even more feasible is implementing Steve Jobs’ ideas (among which is, ironically, to steal) in your business presentation. You can even publicly display a few football logos; I can assure you the NFL is too busy battling real pirates to care what you and your peers do.
7. Wash Your Brain
Meditate. Meditate. Meditate….Sorry, but that’s the only way to drill it into your head. We explored how to meditate anywhere in this Lifehack, and how to maximize your potential with meditation. Whether you close your eyes, put on music, stare at a candle, or sit in the dark, do meditate every day, at least once a day for 15 minutes, no matter who you are or what you do – it does a body good.
8. Follow Snoop
Snoop Dogg is one of the most recognizable artists in the world, appearing on albums, in movies, on TV, in the news, and in marketing campaigns for soccer mom brands like Hot Pockets, Golden Grahams, and Overstock. It’s hard to say exactly what sparks the creativity in Snoop’s joint, but I’d recommend listening to his chronic words as bluntly as possible. Doggystyle can get you out of some of those real sticky-icky creative situations.
9. Take a Break
You’ve got to know when to hold ’em, know when to fold ’em, know when to walk away, and know when to run. You never count your money when you’re sittin’ at the table. There’ll be time enough for countin’ when the dealin’s done.
Sorry…I needed a break…
10. Live in the Moment
The past and future are great, but take some time to reflect on what’s going on around you – you’re only one person, and you have to depend on your senses for creativity. Go on a walk, and interact with people around you; involving yourself in the here and now and appreciating the world around you, no matter how bland or dreary it feels, is one of the best ways to stay creative.
Now flap on, little bird…and get your creative on!
