Unlocking Creative Work Potential

You’re probably hearing a lot about creativity at the moment and the World Economic Forum predicts that by 2020, creativity will be the third most important business skill, just behind complex problem-solving & critical thinking.

And two (or three, or four) creative minds working together are better than one.

But what does creativity mean? You might think of it as being artistic – drawing and painting – but the dictionary definition is the use of imagination or original ideas to create something new. And these days every business needs to be inventive to get ahead.

You’ll find your next “a-ha” moment where you least expect it.

Even if you don’t consider yourself a “creative,” chances are your job still calls for some form of creative thinking. Creativity is an invaluable part of our work, and when deliverables and due dates are at stake; the charge to be creative can go from fun in theory to stressful in practice.

Studies show that creativity is highly individual, and while there’s no one-size-fits-all approach for getting those elusive ideas to materialize in time for your presentation, sometimes all it takes is an unexpected detour to reframe our perspective, recharge our creative energy, and help us see what we hadn’t noticed before.

And these days every business needs to be inventive to get ahead.

Clean out your workspace to clear your mind: “I was surprised to discover that a fairly boring activity — cleaning — actually can actually spark creativity. When I need a new creative idea, I sometimes take a break to clean clutter away from my workspace. By clearing out my physical space I end up clearing my mental space, as well. That makes more room for creative ideas to come to mind.”

Listen for inspiration: “Music never fails to spark my creativity. Whenever I’m feeling unproductive and need a boost, I turn on a playlist I made with songs that specifically amp me up. I find inspiration in other artists’ versions of inspiration. How amazing is it that we have all of these beautiful songs that were once just lyrics on a page and notes that were being hummed in someone’s head. Someone took their art and turned it into music. It’s helpful to remember that when I’m in the process of creating.”

Share your thoughts with a trusted sounding board: “If I’m ever stuck on a topic, I find it’s best to bounce ideas around with others. Sometimes we can get a little protective of our own work or thoughts — something that eventually causes us to shut down our own imagination. But getting other people involved broadens your perspective and can shine a light on your own creativity!”.

Take a break to do something you enjoy: “I have experienced writer's block on a few occasions, where my creative juices just were not flowing. I find that this happens when I am experiencing high amounts of stress in my life, whether it’s in my career or personal life. One thing that continues to be my go-to for sparking my creativity is taking time to do an activity that I love. I know it seems counterintuitive — we normally don’t want to take time away from our important task or project — but this works for me every single time. When I take some time, maybe an hour or an afternoon, to reconnect with doing something I love, that brings me joy it recharges my energy in a way that allows me to return to my project with fresh ideas and a renewed sense of confidence.”

Get out of your head and into your body: “What sparks my creativity is doing some exercise — whether that’d be going for a long walk, or being on the treadmill or elliptical machine, or doing weights or dancing. The repetitive movements involved in an exercise activity put me ‘in the zone’ and focuses my mind so that, after a workout and feeling refreshed and full of endorphins, my brain gets a boost of creativity. I’ve found solutions to problems whilst on the treadmill, have come up with ideas on how to phrase a particular piece of writing whilst doing weights, and saw situations in a new light whilst going for a walk.”

Follow your curiosity: “Creativity and curiosity are interlinked. I believe an inherently questioning mind that asks ‘why’ even in seemingly routine activities and tasks can lead to unbelievable creative insights. Additionally, I think adversity is a good teacher; you learn to find creative solutions when your back is against the wall.”

Remember that inspiration can come from many sources

Go with your gut and take some risks. Lastly, I love looking up motivational quotes. Quotes have a way of transforming your thoughts in a positive way.

Don’t wait for the opportunity. Create it.

Please Like below: or If you implement one or more of these ideas, I would love to hear how it worked. Get in touch with me at any of the comment below – Thank you.