Where do I begin?
In my previous blog, I explored why creativity is essential for your life. Today, let's shift gears to something equally important: how to start becoming creative. This isn’t just about painting, sculpting, or writing—creativity touches every aspect of life, including the workplace, problem-solving, and relationships. It’s about cultivating a mindset that thrives on innovation and exploration while also supporting others in their creative journeys.
Step 1: Understand that Creativity is a Skill
Many people believe that creativity is an innate talent—something you’re either born with or not—and yes, some people do have a preferred skill they thrive on, just like a person who loves numbers or someone who has a green thumb, but like any skill, it can be learned if you put your mind to it. In reality, creativity is a skill that can be learned, practiced, and refined. Think of it as a muscle. The more you exercise it, the stronger it becomes.
Start by embracing a growth mindset. Remind yourself that you can always develop new ways of thinking and creating. Even small changes in your routine can unlock new perspectives and ideas.
Step 2: Create space for Creative Thinking
Your surroundings greatly influence your creativity. A cluttered or overly stimulating environment can make it hard to think clearly. Try the following:
Declutter your workspace, your mind, or your home.
- Add elements that inspire you, such as artwork, plants, or meaningful objects.
- Set aside time to disconnect from digital distractions.
- Cultivate a supportive environment—both physically and mentally—to nurture your creativity.
- Find a place or a smell that stimulates your senses and allows you to think creatively.
Relaxing background music or the sound of the sea often inspires me. When it comes to my sense of smell, the clean scent of the forest invigorates me and sparks my creativity. Sometimes I actively seek out a friend or acquaintance that I view as my muse; the interactions we have often get my energy and creative juices flowing.
Step 3: Make time for play and curiosity
Allow yourself to explore without the pressure to perform or produce something "perfect." Engage in activities that encourage curiosity and experimentation, such as:
- Doodling or sketching.
- Write a stream of consciousness journal. (Write whatever comes to mind; there's no right or wrong). The goal is to let your thoughts roam freely. This is often when the fruition of ideas germinates.
- Try out a new hobby.
- Take walks to observe and absorb the world around you.
- Sit in a sidewalk cafe and let your imagination run rampant as you people-watch.
My favorite creative thinking pastimes include several activities: sitting by the sea to absorb the smells and sounds, watching the rain as it pounds the pavements, and being in a team environment where we can brainstorm the most absurd ideas that eventually leads to the final solution.
This playful approach can help generate ideas in unexpected ways.
Step 4: Cultivate creativity at work
Cultivating creativity at work is essential for driving innovation and solving problems effectively. Here are some expanded strategies to bring creativity into your professional life:
Reframe Problems
When faced with challenges, shifting your perspective can reveal new solutions and opportunities. Instead of dwelling on obstacles, ask questions like:
“What opportunities does this challenge create?”
“How else can this be done?”
“What would happen if we approached this from a different angle?” By focusing on possibilities rather than limitations, you can unlock creative potential and discover innovative approaches.
Collaborate
Collaboration is a powerful tool for fostering creativity. Engage with colleagues by:
- Hosting brainstorming sessions where all ideas are welcomed without judgment.
- Encouraging diverse perspectives, as they often lead to the most innovative solutions.
- Building a culture of open communication where team members feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and ideas. Diverse viewpoints can spark new insights and lead to more comprehensive and creative solutions.
Learn
Lifelong learning is crucial for maintaining a creative edge. To enhance your skills and stimulate creativity:
- Pursue courses or workshops relevant to your field.
- Stay updated with industry trends and advancements.
- Explore new areas of knowledge that can complement your expertise. Continuous learning not only expands your skill set but also introduces fresh ideas and perspectives that can fuel creative thinking.
Create a Stimulating Environment
Your surroundings significantly impact your creativity. To nurture a creative workspace:
- Declutter your workspace or create an area to promote creativity of thought.
- Add elements that would inspire your team, such as coloured pens, chalk walls, artwork, plants, or objects that stimulate discussion.
- Set aside time to disconnect from any digital distractions (including mobile phones). Creating a supportive environment—both physically and mentally—is key to nurturing all creativity.
- Encourage relaxation and inspiration, create a safe space.
Incorporating relaxation and inspiration into your routine can enhance creative thinking:
Therefore aim to create a soothing atmosphere. Find the right environment that stimulates your senses and allows for creative thinking is essential.
By implementing these strategies, you can cultivate a more creative and innovative mindset at work, leading to better problem-solving and more effective solutions.
Step 5: Encourage others’ creativity
Being a catalyst for someone else’s creative growth can also inspire your own. Here’s how:
Provide Support: Create a safe space where others feel comfortable sharing ideas, no matter how unconventional they may seem.
Recognize Efforts: Celebrate small victories and experiments, reinforcing that the process of creation is just as valuable as the outcome.
Ask Questions: Encourage curiosity in others by asking open-ended questions like, “What if?” or “How would this look if you approached it differently?”
Step 6: Embrace failure as a learning tool
Fear of failure often stifles creativity. Instead, view setbacks as opportunities to learn and grow. Reflect on what didn’t work, and use those insights to refine your ideas. When you adopt a mindset that values experimentation, you allow room for growth and innovation.
Step 7: Build daily Creative Habits
Consistency is key when developing creativity. Start small by dedicating 15-30 minutes daily to activities that inspire you, whether it’s journaling, brainstorming, or exploring something new. Over time, these habits will become second nature.
Unlocking the Creative Spirit within
Creativity isn’t about perfection; it’s about expressing yourself, solving problems, and seeing the world through fresh eyes. Whether you’re at work, home, or play, the potential for creativity exists everywhere. All it takes is a willingness to begin.
So, how will you start your creative journey today? Will you doodle during lunch, brainstorm with your team, or ask a new “What if” question? Whatever you choose, the key is to begin—and keep going. You’ll be amazed at the places your creativity can take you.
