Tap Into Your Inner Creativity

As children we dream elusively. No goal, in the eyes of a child is unattainable. Our imaginations run wild as we travel on space shuttles to walk across the moon. Age however, tends to diminish the reality of achieving the dreams we sketched so gingerly throughout our minds. With that being said, I have to wonder: When did we stop believing? Furthermore is it ever to late? 

The answer to my last question is, No. It is never too late to be that spunky young version of yourself. 

But how do we get there? 

I believe that the first step in achieving a goal or a dream is to tap into our creative mindset. But how do we stay creative? If you are stuck, here are 33 ways:

1. Make lists

Making a list can put your mind at ease and make you feel somewhat organized. 

2. Carry a notebook everywhere

Inspiration can strike at any moment so make sure you have a notebook with you to write down thoughts, ideas, or quotes that may inspire you.

3. Try free writing

Why free write? Free writing is a very simple process that has a lot of creative potential and is the starting point for discovering lots of hidden information. When practicing free writing it is important to not cross anything out or erase anything you have written down. Forget punctuation, spelling, and grammar. The goal is to write faster and more fluently.  

Read more HERE

4. Get away from the computer

Most of us spend the majority of our day staring at a computer screen. Take a minute or several, to go to the gym or take a hike outdoors. The fresh air will be good for you. 

5. Be otherworldly

Tap into your spirituality. Meditate. Pray.

6. Quit beating yourself up

Abraham Lincoln once said "Let no feeling of discouragement prey upon you, and in the end you are sure to succeed"

7. Take breaks

According to an article from the New York Times written by Phyllis Korkki, "A growing body of evidence shows that taking regular breaks from mental tasks improves productivity and creativity - and that skipping breaks can lead to stress and exhaustion." So go ahead, take that break you deserve. 

8. Sing in the shower

Sounds silly, but singing can actually boost your immune system, increase feelings of well-being, encourage creativity, and strengthen your concentration and memory!

9. Drink coffee/tea

The caffeine content in coffee improves alertness, concentration, and energy. 

10. Know your roots

I love this quote by Maria Sharapova who is one of the best tennis players in the world: "I know my roots and cannot forget the journey I made."

11. Listen to new music

Listening to music allows you to actively pursue creativity.

12. Be open

"Flexibility requires an open mind and welcoming of new alternatives"

-Deborah Day 

13. Surround yourself with creative people

Learn from them. Work with them. Share ideas. Seek inspiration from them. 

14. Get feedback

Even if it's negative or constructive. 

15. Collaborate

At times it's better to work in numbers. 

16. Don't give up

Ever. 

17. Practice, Practice, Practice

I heard it makes perfect...

18. Allow yourself to make mistakes

This is why pencils have erasers. 

Learn from your mistakes!

19. Go somewhere new

"Why do you go away? So that you can come back. So that you can see the place you came from with new eyes and extra colors." 

-Terry Pratchett

Travel induces creativity and may provide you with a new perspective.

20. Watch foreign films

21. Count your blessings

Those who continually count their blessings are more likely to show higher levels of positive emotions such as vitality and optimism and are more likely to make progress towards important and personal goals. 

22. Gets lots of rest

& Take naps. 

23. Take risks

"All men dream: but not equally. Those who dream by night in the dusty recesses of their minds wake up in the day to find it was vanity, but the dreamers of the day are dangerous men, for they may act their dreams with open eyes to make it possible."

-T.E. Lawrence 

24. Break the rules

I think Neil Gaiman stated it perfectly: "Rules and responsibilities: these are the ties that bind us. We do what we do, because of who we are. If we did otherwise, we would not be ourselves."

25. Do more of what makes you happy

Life is far too short to do otherwise. 

26. Don't force it

Give it time, give it space. 

27. Read a page of the dictionary

Although it kinda sounds a little boring. Always fill your mind with new ideas or new concepts. Vow to learn something new everyday.

28. Create a framework

29. Stop trying to be someone else's perfect

PLEASE JUST STOP! Be you! 

30. Got an idea? Write it down

This is why I keep post-its in my purse. 

31. Clean your work space

32. HAVE FUN!

33. Finish something  

Make a goal and stick to it. 

"You playing small does not serve the world"

-Marianne Williamson

{All images courtesy of Pinterest Boards: Beauty-ful & Quotes and can be traced back to original posting.}