We each know the sensation. You struggle to come up with that big idea that will solve all your current problems, and then one day it suddenly appears.I call them “lightening moments” and they’re one of the best feelings in the world.It almost feels like a bolt of energy hits you all at once, and suddenly you’re unstoppable. Wouldn’t it be nice if you could simply unlock your creativity whenever you felt like it?After years of reading articles on this, I want to share the five best ways to unlock your creativity. They don’t guarantee success, but they certainly increase it.
“Go for a walk if you want to get your mind running."(click to Tweet)
Many studies show that increased physical activity increases brain activity as well. I’d previously proposed that we require physical motion throughout a child’s day in school for this very reason. Many people spend the majority of their days seated behind desks expecting to have creative breakthroughs.If you're not sparking creativity in your seat, get off you butt and go for a walk.
Anyone who knows me knows how much I love documentaries. It’s because they’re absolute brain candy. A documentary is a well researched lesson on a factual story, industry or individual wrapped in an entertaining candy coating. They usually teach just as much as they inspire, and often the learnings will stay on your mind for weeks.
Thomas Jefferson is one of the greatest minds in American history, and he organized these gatherings frequently at his home in Monticello. You invite 8-12 people together for a dinner, the table must be round or square, and the main rule is that no side conversations are allowed. You start with a simple question of any kind (e.g. “What was your first memory associated with food?”) and allow the conversation to flow evenly and naturally without organized order. You’ll learn an amazing amount from everyone at the table, and forge real, authentic relationships as well.
“Go see live music if you want your brain to come alive.”(click to Tweet)
While live music is best experienced with others, there’s something magical that happens when you attend a concert by yourself as a stranger to the crowd. You lose your inhibitions, let yourself go to the sounds, and often find yourself going deeper into your own thoughts then you would otherwise when you’re experiencing the show with someone else.I also find that the level of admiration and inspiration I find in music is heightened when I’m at a concert solo. It’s daunting, but give it a try.
Many studies show that the processing power of our subconscious mind is far more powerful than our conscious mind. But the chatter and noise of our conscious mind often overtakes our ability to tap into the subconscious.When we allow our minds to become idle, in moments when we’re disconnected from devices and human interactions, we often discover huge breakthroughs that only our subconscious minds possess.
Share where you discover your best ideas in the comments below.
