Put aside the belief that you’re not the creative type. Given time and space we can all be more creative.  It is not just about creating artwork. It could be a creative solution to your filing crisis at work. It is about finding novel ways of doing things. Creativity can assist problem solving and help you handle certain situations. For instance, finding a creative solution to dealing with Aunt Meg’s over zealousness at Christmas.

The benefits of creativity

If you begin to exercise your creativity you will see it pays off in many ways.  There’s a win-win situation when it comes to being creative.  It allows you to flourish and develop different strengths, which in turn will make you into a more creative person.  For instance, being creative entails being open-minded and curious.  Using these traits will enhance your creative process. It allows you to try things out without worrying about being wrong. Not surprisingly then it is entwined withself-esteem. You can trust yourself to go with your own thoughts and feelings.

Making time for creativity gives you a chance to experience flow, where you are so absorbed in a task nothing else matters.  Flow boosts mood and brings happiness. And here we see another win-win situation. Research suggests that happy people are more creative and spending time on developing your creative abilities will boost mood. Giving yourself the chance to be creative can also put an end to procrastination. You are generating ideas rather than stuck doing nothing. Creativity can increase productivity both at work and at home.  You may also learn something about yourself: such a task is time never wasted.

How to be more creative

Write your ideas down. Don’t discard any you don’t like now as they may come in handy later on or trigger a whole new bunch of ideas.

Remember you need to act on your ideas. This requires setting aside time free from interruption. Not freeing up time may hinder your creativity.

If you are looking for a solution and have been mulling it over for some time, go do something completely different. Great ideas can occur when you least expect it, just remember to note them down when they come to you.

Be inspired by other people, whether they are related to your chosen area or not. Get support from as many different sources as possible.

Do not worry what other people think. It is your work so enjoy it.  Also don’t judge yourself too harshly; creativity is not about being right.

Do relaxation exercises to help get you started. Yoga or meditation would be terrific.

Be aware of the things that may be hindering your creativity. Negative people and TV are obvious examples.

Look for opportunities to be creative in all areas of your life.

Keep learning about your chosen area of interest. Your enhanced knowledge will really assist.

Like any happiness promoting activity, focus on the journey not the end point.

Written 2009.