When people hear the word “creative,” they often picture an artist in a studio, or a writer typing at light speed while working on their latest masterpiece. Artists, writers, muralists, graphic designers, musicians, those are all creative people! But creativity doesn't have to be limited to art projects, music compositions and novel writing. And it definitely doesn't have to be limited to those who have long stretches of free time and flexible routines. It's a mindset. It's how you solve problems, how you approach challenges, how you see the world and how you bring fresh perspectives into your daily routine. Even if you're not someone who would call themselves "a creative spirit" or you feel like you don't have the time to try something new to spark creativity, the truth is: small shifts and tasks make a huge difference! You don't need art supplies, musical instruments, or even a computer to be creative, and you don't need hours of time either. You just need a few minutes, some curiosity, and a willingness to try something outside your routine.
Here are 7 ways anyone can be creative in their daily life and maybe - just maybe - spark creativity in other parts of their brain!
- Change the Channel - Creativity often starts with what you take in. Listen to a new artist or a radio station you wouldn’t normally choose. Take a break from your romantasy reads and read something outside your comfort zone. New input leads to new ideas.
- Keep a Notebook - I'm a big fan of writing things down, not just because I tend to forget everything, but because sometimes ideas show up at the worst time! Throughout the day, write things down that you see, think or feel. It doesn't have to lead to a project, but just writing these things down will help you "see differently."
- Try a Prompt - Got 5 minutes? Try a writing (or sketching) exercise I used to do all the time. Search for a writing or drawing prompt. Such as "The summer day smelled like..." or "Describe your version of paradise" and go crazy for 5 minutes.
- Rearrange Something - No lie, this is my favorite thing to do, and I do it more often than most people. I mean, how many of us used to rearrange our bedrooms at 11pm just because we wanted a new room as teenagers? I know I did. And I still do! So try that out - move some furniture, reorganize a bookshelf, color code your closet. Making physical changes will often spark some mental ones (and at the very least, after it's over, you'll have a new and tidy space).
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Take a Walk - WITHOUT your phone - I know, walking without music or a podcast? Leaving the social media at home? What if someone calls? What about that important text? I'm not asking you to go for a 4 hour walk. Set the phone down and remember what it's like to let your brain wander. Observe nature, look at plants, pet a dog (if their person says it's okay!), talk to a squirrel, just take these few minutes to let your brain rest and remember what it used to be like before phones and tech ruled our lives.
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Get Basic - Creativity doesn't need tools or boxes of colorful supplies. During that ridiculously long Zoom meeting, take that pen and a pad of paper you have sitting next to you, and just...doodle. Let out the trapped energy in your brain. It doesn't need to be more than scribbling. Or, pick one color and see how many different things you can doodle in five minutes. Just keep it simple!
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Finally, try something new just for YOU. - If there is no audience, there is no pressure. Learn to sing that song you can't get out of your head. Look up music lessons (even if you don't sign up, you're planting the seed). Try out that painting technique you saw on YouTube. Try that "thing" that sounds interesting and challenges you. Do it for you, because you want to do it.
I could go on for days on this topic - but I think seven ideas to generate some creativity in your every day life is a good start! My challenge to you is to try one of these today.