Creativity is one talent that does not come naturally for everyone. Some are simply born with more right brain power than others, giving them the ability to see art, design, and beauty where others might see something mundane.
However, even those blessed with creativity may not have it forever. Simple changes in lifestyle, added stress, or a poor working environment can all contribute to fewer inspirational ideas. If you’re looking for a way to restore that creativity before the deadline of your next project, here are a few suggestions.
1. Sit Outside
Take this opportunity to test out some new landscaping in your backyard. Pull up a lawn chair and enjoy the fresh outdoors. As you remove yourself from technology and the stifling indoor air, you’ll be able to think more clearly and dip into new creative boundaries.
2. Think Like a Child
Children are some of the most creative creatures on the planet. Their imaginations run wild, uninhibited by the stresses of paying bills or meeting deadlines.
When you’re most stressed, try to think like a child. Build a blanket fort, color inside a coloring book, watch a kid’s movie, or eat an ice cream cone. Something about this behavior helps you forget about the worries that may be inhibiting your creativity.
3. Take the Emphasis Off Money
Have you been thinking a lot about money lately? If so, that could be the cause of your distress. Try doing a project for free to get the juices flowing or simply focus on doing something for the love of a project, rather than the paycheck that will come after.
4. Sleep More
Sleep and creativity go hand in hand. Remember that all sleep is not created equally. You might be in your bed for eight hours each night, but you need deep, REM sleep to achieve a restful enough state to boost your cognitive intuition.
If you’re struggling to get a good night’s rest, try removing technology from the bedroom, using blackout and noise-reducing window coverings, exercising daily, or eliminating food and drink at least two hours before bed.
5. Eat Right
The best foods for creativity include:
- Unprocessed foods
- Coffee
- Beans and legumes
- Nuts and seeds
- Cold water fish
- Fresh fruits and vegetables
- Whole grains
Essentially, any food that’s healthy and nutritious will boost cognitive power and keep your body functioning smoothly. When you feel good, you’ll limit the distractions that get in the way of clear thinking.
6. Limit TV
Research shows time and again that viewing excessive amounts of television significantly reduces cognitive function. Aside from that, it’s difficult to think of new ideas when you’re constantly tuning into ideas other people have already had and developed.
7. Include More Activity Day to Day
You should be exercising at least 30 minutes five days per week for optimal health and brain power. In addition to that, you should be including walks and exercise breaks in the middle of your work day. These breaks will shoot endorphins to the brain that reduce stress and help you focus on the project at hand.
8. Face a Fear
Identify a fear. Perhaps it’s being alone in the dark or talking in front of people. If one of these fears are standing in the way of you and your work, it’s time to face that fear and let your mind return to normal.
9. Listen to Music
Any genre of music you connect with will awaken the brain and help you get over your hump. There’s a common myth that only classical music, or gentle instrumental tunes without words, can help you focus and find your lost creativity, but in reality, any music you enjoy can eliminate stress and distractions and provide inspiration.
10. Go People Watching
Writers and marketers in particular can make good use of observing those around them. Go to a public place with a notepad and pen, and watch the behaviors of everyday people. This will not only be highly entertaining, but it will also give you insights into everyday life that can solve some of your biggest problems.