The nature of creativity is one of the greatest mysteries of the human mind. How do you get it? Once you have it, how do you keep it? And what on Earth do you do when it’s gone and won’t come back?
Writing an original, engaging blog requires many different elements. Perhaps the most crucial is creativity. So let’s look at the five best ways to cultivate an inventive mind and what to do when ingenuity eludes you.
Set the mood
Before the creative flood gates can open, you’ll need to create the ideal environment. Whether it’s ambient music, jazz, calming ocean sounds or just plain old silence, set the mood with something to get your ideas flowing. Also, make sure you’re in a clutter-free space – an untidy work area will stifle creative thought.
Take a walk in the great outdoors
You know the feeling… you’ve been staring at the screen for what seems like an eternity, waiting for something – ANYTHING – to come to you. But no matter how hard you try, you hit a wall.
The problem is, the more you try to force creativity, the more allusive it becomes. This is the time to take a break and take a walk in the great outdoors. Getting in touch with nature and allowing your brain to relax is the best way to get the creativity flowing following a mental block. Better yet, go for a run. Exercise is scientifically proven to stimulate brain function in the short and long term.
Get some inspiration
Sometimes, all you need is to be inspired. Everything we create is the product of what we take in – we are constantly inspired by our environment, both consciously and unconsciously. If your ideas are feeling a little flat, take some time to find a creative spark. It doesn’t even have to be related to what you’re working on – a line from a book or a song lyric could suddenly put you on the right track.
Ask a friend for feedback
With any creative activity, it’s important to step outside of your own perspective and get another opinion. If you’re stuck for inspiration, ask a friend for feedback on your blog. Criticism can be painful – even if it’s of the constructive variety – so make sure you choose a tactful, yet honest friend. Take their opinions on board – they may carve the way for a new angle you hadn’t previously considered.
Change your environment
If you’ve tried everything and you still hit a creative brick wall, change your environment. For digital nomads, the beauty of the working environment is that it’s flexible. Take your laptop to a peaceful outside space and let inspiration come your way. Even if you work in an office, go retro – get a pen and paper and find a quiet, tranquil area. You’ll be amazed at how a simple change of scenery can unlock your mind to a stream of new ideas.