15 Tricks to Getting More Creative
In today's world, if you're not at least a little bit creative, pretty soon a robot will be doing your job. But coming up with those artistic flourishes or inventive solutions isn't all that easy. Sometimes that muse just won't talk. This isn't an inspirational list meant to convince you that you're unique and creative. I believe that you already are, no matter what you do--you don't have to be writing a book or making a movie; even accountants are creative in their own ways. This article is for when you're stuck in a creative bind and need some extra oomph to make your project work. So here are fifteen hacks to get those creative juices juicing again. [gap h="10"] 1. Exercise. Get those endorphins flowing. Exercise is a stress reliever as well as a creative catalyst, and mindless repetition (you know, like running on a treadmill or lifting things) is a secret to letting your ponderous mind wander. In fact, NOT focusing on your creative problem is a way to help you work through it. It'll also give you some perspective: wouldn't you rather be working than stumbling your way along on a treadmill wishing you could eat a cheeseburger? [gap h="10"] 2. Get Mad. You know all those things you really want to tell that awful client? You know those times when you just want to say “really guys, this is the truth that you don’t want to hear,” or write a searing email to your boss? Write them down. Let it out. Many of us have created mental blocks to saying exactly what we mean because, well, we don’t want people to think we’re psychopaths. Break those barriers and say exactly what you mean. It’ll feel good, and often you’ll discover (somewhere) a new way to approach your problem. Just by being honest. Then destroy the evidence. Make sure not to actually send that email. In fact don’t even put an address in the ‘recipient’ line. Just be safe. [gap h="10"] 3. Shower. After all of that exercise and rage, you're probably still sweating desperation. Right now you reek of it, right? Okay, maybe not, but the shower is...