From the course: Problem-Solving Master Class

(Re)-igniting your creative spark

From the course: Problem-Solving Master Class

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(Re)-igniting your creative spark

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Have you ever felt stumped for ideas or that you just aren't the creative type? The good news is that the brain, like the rest of the body, can be re-energized, and there are lots of things you can do to spark creativity. Why not try some of these? Ever notice how many brilliant, albeit strange ideas arise when you're joking around with friends? So why not get some friends or colleagues together and have a brainstorming session? You can even throw around a softball or cushion. Whoever catches it has to say the first idea that occurs to them, no matter how absurd. If you stare at the same boring walls all day, it won't take long for your mind to seize up. So try working from a different environment, maybe a coffee shop, or if leaving the workplace isn't practical, rearranging your office in some way. Visit another department in the company and see how it operates. Shake things up a little bit and see what falls out. Inspiration often arises from the least likely sources. This could mean reading the gossip column even if you normally don't, going people-watching, or even viewing an exhibit at a museum. This can help your brain make unexpected connections or notice patterns, and boom, you get an idea. Take some time to breathe a little, work on a different project. Go see a movie or take a walk. Like any muscle in the body, sometimes the brain just needs a moment to relax. You wouldn't expect your legs to lug you through a marathon without several breaks unless you're an extreme athlete, of course. A recent study found that 52 minutes was the perfect amount of time to work before taking a break. Now though this might not be entirely practical for everyone, you should nonetheless learn to recognize when your brain is feeling fatigued and simply take five. Exercise really does work. A plethora of research studies have shown that exercise elevates cognitive creativity and productivity. Whether it's running, swimming, biking, or simply walking, activity will provide you added physical confidence, increase your endurance and boost your brain's chemical levels, and make you smarter. It could take a little research or a whopping 60 seconds on Google to figure out what words and topics are popular in your neck of the woods. Then you can put your own unique spin on those keywords and use them to focus your ideas. If you need help with the research, there are plenty of online tools that analyze the web for you and find the keywords and phrases that are trending in your field. Having fun may be the most important one on the list. Albert Einstein said, "Creativity is intelligence having fun." You'll be a lot more productive with a smile on your face than with a frown. Try incorporating games and props to your creative process. Stress will shut you down. Let go of it, relax, and you'll be surprised at the inspired results. You may find that your mind responds quickly to one of these techniques, but chances are you'll need to alternate between several of them. Remember that creativity and the mind both thrive on variation.

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