How can you identify and overcome a lack of creativity while problem solving?

Yes,and! If you’re running with scissors, it may be hard to slow down to even know that there is a problem. Build in time for self-reflection and perhaps a morning ritual to be intentional with your day. Sometimes starting with a mental fitness exercise (e.g. meditation or a few minutes of mindfulness) will help to activate the creative side of your brain and to quiet those saboteurs.

When facing some problem, people often miss analysing it more thoroughly and tend to jump towards thinking about the solution. This narrows down the pool of solutions, directs our thinking and limits it to the first idea that comes to our mind. If one actually dedicates more time to realising what the problem is and why we have the particular problem, and what is the general goal we want to achieve, based on that we will be able to actually think of different ways on how to go from A (the problem) to B (the solution), as for sure there are many ways. Also, it helps talking to others as that can broaden our perspective and sometimes it helps not to think about the problem for a while, so information can be calmly processed in our brain.

When it comes to building your relationship with creativity, consistency is key. Consider making a daily habit out of whichever brainstorming style you choose, and notice the benefits that arise when your brain can count on having “creative time” more regularly.

I would replace the ‘can also’ invite others into ‘should definately’ invite others to join your brainstorming session. Research shows that the exchange of ideas within a groupsetting enhances creativity, since the opinions and perspectives of others provide you with different angles to look at the initial challenge/ problem/ project you are trying to find an answer to.

Another perk to making a habit of creative time is future inspiration! When you devote daily time to brainstorming without judgement, you create a backlog of topics that you can shape and iterate for future needs.

Creativity is a muscle, and if you’re not regularly making space to ask questions about your goals, methods, and mistakes that muscle can be underdeveloped. Build in reviews for your life, your team, and your business where questions are encouraged and possibilities are explored.

An example of self-care is doing something for yourself that you’re not used to doing. Treat yourself to a solo trip to the movie theaters, concert, or restaurant. It may seem awkward at first, especially if you’re a woman who’s used to taking care of others or socializing with friends, but this solo trip can be very gratifying. This experience with newfound freedom may just be the right amount of boost for your self-confidence, creativity, and productivity.

When the body is in a stress state, our tools for creativity are blocked. Practicing care habits like breathwork, yoga, and free writing can help regulate your nervous system so deeper aspects of creativity become accessible over time.