Creativity and originality are two traits that are becoming more and more desired in a society where everyone wants to stand out. The question is: how can you optimize your creativity?
Your creativity is like a muscle. Work it out to make it stronger. So, how does one do that? Well, here are a few ways:
1. Take a time-out
In a world that thrives on its connectedness, sometimes you just need to disconnect and zone out. Take a walk, sit somewhere inspiring, allow your mind to wander free from distractions, appointments, day planners and Facebook notifications.
2. Use the past to create your future
Don’t be afraid to look into your past in order to open up your creativity. Know and understand the history of your field. Do you need to know the birthdays of famous artists in order to be a good painter? No. But understanding the work of the pioneers that paved the way for your preferred art…that is what will help you. The past is the foundation on which you build your future. Use it.
3. “Be masterful”
Don’t be afraid of your knowledge, but at the same time you must also make sure to have experience in your field. All the art books in the world won’t help you learn how to paint. It takes practice, dedicated, and a desire to see beyond what’s in front of you. This is where originality comes into play. Being able to connect the dots between two seemingly unconnected things is what sparks the idea for monumental discoveries. They say to think outside the box, and as cliche as that sounds, it’s true. Don’t just use the wine bottle for wine and then throw it away. Dress it up and use it as a vase. Put white Christmas lights inside of it and use it as lighting decoration. Cut it in half and use it as a bottle.
See beyond what’s in front of you. THAT is how you become more creative.
