Everything requires time, effort, and consistent action, that is, practice. To feel the emergence of new creative possibilities, stop thinking in terms of scarcity. Allow desires and ideas to manifest where they want to, not where you think they should. Under such circumstances, unexpected events can enhance your creative potential and realization. Let's consider a few tips on how to be creative.
Clear your mind and relax
Creativity is not just about making decisions and discarding ideas. It also requires positive thinking and sufficient rest. Your brain doesn't give you access to ideas in your subconscious. So, by disconnecting from time to time, you can tap into them as sparks of inspiration.
For example, when you take a shower, your brain remains active. It effectively processes thoughts and ideas, helping you organize your day or even evoke inspiration for creative innovations. Later, these moments in the shower can serve as a source of creative ideas. Find more inspiration on how to let your mind create in our summary of Creative Superpowers: Equip Yourself for the Age of Creativity.
Follow creative instincts
Try to listen to the people around you. Some things may resonate with you, and you can take them into account, yet don't forget to follow your creative instincts. Don't overload your mind with tons of information. The more you familiarize yourself with a certain topic, the more limitations you have when you start thinking.
For example, the Spanish company Glovo, founded on the simple idea of food delivery, is one of the most popular in the world. The founders were fearless in launching a service with a 60-minute delivery concept. Thanks to the improvement of the system, they became leaders. A wide network of partners, a large number of couriers, and IT improvements to the application tailored to the specifics of each city and country allow people to receive goods right to their doorstep in minutes.
Let go of creative coercion
History is full of creative inventions that result from unexpectedness. Don't push yourself to be creative and don't think continuously about how to boost creativity. Let things come to you naturally. Take a walk, leave the office for lunch, and inspiration may unexpectedly ignite.
For example, Velcro was created after its inventor encountered a burr — a plant covered with stiff hooked prickles that cling to clothing. Once, George de Mestral walked and returned home covered in this plant. He became curious about what would happen if he applied this principle to footwear. Thus began his creative process.
Work and don't be work-dependent
Perfectionism can lure you into a trap because it makes people lose the freedom to create and admit mistakes. However, perfection doesn't exist. For example, no movie can continue endlessly. But directors and editors still find the final point in their creative work.
Many people react to creative feelings with excessive work. To restore your creativity, understand that workaholism is a hindrance, not a help. Letting go is an integral part of the process. If you’re struggling with overcoming perfectionism and workaholism, find more advice in our summary of the Artist's Way.
Find your hobby and start actively pursuing it
Hobbies often provide a safe space for experimentation and failure — two vital elements of the creative process. You can explore ideas without the pressure of perfection. Later, you can transfer this way of thinking to your main job with more openness and innovation.
Suppose you currently work in a bank but your heart has always yearned to illustrate children’s books. In that case, consider dedicating your evenings to drawing. Instead of ruminating over your job dissatisfaction and brainstorming how to increase creativity, immerse yourself in books, watch YouTube tutorials, and practice. Over time, you will see an improvement in your skill level, understand your style, and confidently decide what to do with your career.
Create uniquely by imitating
Imitation is a step in the creative process, different from plagiarism. Beginners often don't have a clear creative direction. At these early stages, imitation of admired figures can be invaluable. This learning method is similar to how people acquire basic skills — for example, learning to write by copying the alphabet.Notably, The Beatles started as a cover band, drawing inspiration from great musicians like Buddy Holly and Elvis Presley. That's why discovering your creative identity involves consistent practice and overcoming the fear of inadequacy. Learn more about how to find your uniqueness in the Steal Like An Artist summary.
Embrace boredom and create chaos
Sometimes it may seem like someone has locked away your creative potential, and you'll have to break it out. But you can unlock your creative potential with simple techniques. The first one is embracing boredom. When you're bored, your brain, starved for stimulation, becomes a powerhouse of ideas.
The second technique is creating chaos. Think visual chaos, not the usual one where there are many used cups and plates on the table. Take advantage of this opportunity to hang a few posters or photos, small plants, or other decor. This way, you'll have little things that will catch your attention and prompt your brain to generate new ideas subconsciously.
Confidence in your work can help you develop creativity, and starting to work on it will answer the question of how you can become more creative. Believe in your abilities and your work. Relax and take small but confident steps along the path of creativity. Remember: your work doesn’t have to appease everyone. The main task is to find joy in what you do and that it brings satisfaction to you.
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