5 Habits of Highly Effective Creatives.

Finding ways to regularly come up with new ideas can be tough and tiring. Almost everyone needs to be creative. whether you’re a writer, designer, video editor, chef, programmer, or even a student! You might wonder if our routines and habits impact our creativity. The answer is, absolutely yes.

Productivity Boosts Creativity

Productivity and creativity are more connected than you might think. Productivity is about using your time, energy, and resources wisely to reach your goals. It’s not about being constantly busy but about avoiding burnout and focusing on what truly matters. Creativity, on the other hand, is about generating new ideas, which you can only do when your mind and body are energized. Building productive habits creates a solid base for innovative thinking, leading to peak creativity.

1. Be an Idea Sponge

• Seek new experiences
• Look at things from different perspectives
• Continuously learn new things

Creativity involves the brain’s ability to rewire itself, a process called neuroplasticity. When you try new things, your brain automatically reorganizes itself to adapt to these new experiences. Exposing yourself to different stimuli encourages neuroplasticity, leading to new neural connections and improved cognitive flexibility.

For example, studies have shown that exploring different cultures regularly can boost creativity. Even productivity experts recommend taking a long vacation or just a walk when you’re feeling burnt out.

Action: To be more creative, keep seeking new experiences.

2. Learn from the Greats

Study the work of those who inspire you. Learning from others not only enhances your skills but also stimulates neuroplasticity. Observe the work of people who are where you want to be in the future. Take inspiration from them, but don’t just copy.

Action: Reflect on the insights you’ve gained from studying the greats and think about how you can apply them.

3. Listen First

Listening is a valuable skill for creativity and for life in general. It’s rare, but those who truly listen before passing judgment gain new perspectives, learn, and challenge their own biases. Listening to music can also enhance creativity for some people, especially when it helps them enter a state of flow. The type of music matters — many find classical music or binaural beats helpful.

Action: In your next conversation, focus on listening more deeply.

4. Optimize Your Workspace

• Get morning light exposure.
• Keep your work materials and screens directly in front of you.
• Minimize distractions by limiting your visual field.
• For every 45 minutes of work, take a 5-minute break to rest your eyes.
• Avoid white noise; instead, listen to binaural beats at 40 hertz.
• Fewer interruptions mean it’s easier to maintain deep focus.

5. Use the Three Phases of the Day

Phase 1 (Morning): Focus on tasks that require high concentration and alertness, using natural sunlight for an extra boost. Phase 2 (Afternoon): This is the best time for abstract and creative thinking. Phase 3 (Evening/Night): Wind down with a good night routine and limit light exposure for better sleep.

Action: Make a checklist of things you can change in your workspace to boost creativity.

Thank you for Reading.