There are all sorts of ways people stay creative, and not just writers either. Artists of all types and everyone from scientists to accountants need to stay fresh. I could probably write about 50 different ways to enhance your creativity, but there isn’t enough room in this article. So, I’m going to list a few of what I think are the most important ways. Understand that as a creative being, it is not always best for you to remain in your chair seated at your computer.
Surround yourself with other creative people. You know you need to get out and socialize as well as network. Nothing helps your creativity like idea sharing with like minded people. Admire the work of a painter friend or a graphic designer acquaintance. Talk shop with your photographer co-worker. Build on their creative ideas and you just might get some hints and tips for your next writing endeavor.
Write Lists. Especially Lists of Ideas. Do you have an idea for a project? Write it down. You may think it’s a bad idea, but at this early stage there are no bad ideas. You can always build or “piggyback” on it into another idea when you get to brainstorming. Keep all kinds of lists, such as to-do lists, a bucket list, lists of affirmations, and lists of accomplishments. Turn to these whenever you need to feel creative again.
Freewrite. If you’ve been reading this blog, you know I’m an advocate of journaling. You don’t need to keep a structured journal or even a fancy one–a spiral notebook will do the trick. In it, try your hand at freewriting, or writing in the stream of consciousness. Nothing needs to make sense at this point; you’re just getting your thoughts on paper. Later, you can go back and look for patterns, important words or ideas, or clear breakthroughs in staying creative. Or not. Maybe you just want to begin your day by freewriting the negative thoughts out of your head while waiting for your coffee to kick in. That’s guaranteed to help you stay creative too.
Take Breaks and Get Lots of Rest. Even Dale Carnegie was an advocate of taking naps! When you get away from your keyboard, you reconnect with the world around you. This will give you a fresh perspective on whatever it is that you’re working on. Plus, it gives you a chance to stretch, rest your eyeballs and give your brain a break from thinking. I’m known for taking afternoon naps and working in the middle of the night–as a writer, you have to find what works for you. However, a catnap here and there will also do you some good. You can’t always burn the midnight oil. Sometimes you just have to take a break. Trust me, this will help you stay creative.
Collaborate and Get Feedback on Your Work. Finally, remember that two brains are better than a half of a brain if that’s all you’ve got left! Bouncing ideas off of a friend or fellow writer is a great way to stay creative. Seek feedback from people in your audience as well as those who also do the same type of work you do. You’ll learn that it’s just not good to work in a bubble, and that collaboration and feedback go hand in hand when staying creative.
What are some ways that you stay fresh and creative with your writing or other creative projects? Please share them with us in the comments below.
Wisdom In Writing 