7 Useful Tricks to Improve Creative Thinking

There might be times you find yourself lacking in creativity. The cause for your lack of creativity can be for different reasons. It could be you haven’t been using your creative muscles regularly and they’ve become hidden. There are many tricks you can use to improve your creative thinking.

One of the best ways to keep yourself inspired to create every day is to have rituals in place that you use regularly and routinely. Having routines that inspire you conditions your brain to tap into your creativity easily. Some examples of a ritual might be to:

Create Every Day

Creativity is a magical force that resides within each of us, waiting to be unlocked. You don't need a canvas and paintbrush to be creative; it's about expressing yourself in your own unique way. One practical tip to cultivate your creativity is to create something every day, even if you only have a few minutes to spare.

Take those 5 or 10 minutes and let your imagination run wild. You don't need to produce a masterpiece; the goal is to keep your creativity alive and inspired. Write a short article about your day, draw mind maps during meetings, or brainstorm new product ideas. Engage in the simple act of creatively re-arranging and organizing your files – turning a mundane task into a playground for your imagination.

Embrace the beauty around you; capture the essence of the world by taking photographs of the sunset or any captivating moment. These small, daily creative acts not only add a spark to your routine but also pave the way for innovative thinking. Remember, creativity is not about perfection but about the joy of expressing yourself. So, grab those precious moments each day and let your creativity flow.

Take breaks often.

In the realm of creativity, taking breaks plays a vital role in overcoming challenges. When you find yourself tangled in a problem with no clear solution, hitting pause can be the key. Stepping away provides your mind with the space to shift its focus, opening the door to newfound inspiration.

Moreover, our lives are often filled with constant digital chatter, making it essential to take regular breaks. Breaking free from screens, even for a short time, helps in building your creative thinking muscle. Unplug from the digital world, at least once a week, and preferably every day. Head outdoors, breathe in the fresh air, and let your mind wander. This break not only rejuvenates your mind but also sparks creativity by exposing you to new surroundings and experiences.

So, the next time you feel stuck or overwhelmed, remember the power of taking breaks. It's a simple yet effective way to recharge your creative energy and foster new ideas.

Make Lists.

Harnessing the spark of inspiration is a powerful tool in the creative journey. When those lightbulb moments strike, grab a small notebook or your phone's note app and jot down your ideas. Making lists of your inspirations serves as a treasure trove for future creativity.

These lists become launching pads for innovation, guiding you toward new approaches, products, or anything that ignites your passion. It's like creating a roadmap to explore the vast landscape of your imagination. Whether it's a unique solution to a problem, a fresh take on a project, or an entirely new concept, your recorded ideas become the seeds for groundbreaking creativity.

The act of noting down your thoughts not only captures the essence of the moment but also ensures that your ideas are preserved for future exploration. So, the next time inspiration strikes, don't let it slip away. Grab your notebook or phone, create a list, and let your ideas blossom into a garden of creative possibilities. Your lists are not just scribbles; they are the building blocks of your creative legacy.

Have fun regularly.

Injecting fun into your routine is a secret ingredient to boosting creativity. Regularly stepping away from the daily grind and spending time with friends or colleagues can be a game-changer. It's like giving your mind a breath of fresh air, breaking free from the monotony that might be holding back your creative flow.

When you go out for some leisure time, laughter becomes the fuel for your creative engine. Engaging in good conversation and bouncing ideas off each other sparks new perspectives and fosters a collaborative creative atmosphere. It's not just about having fun; it's about creating an environment where creativity can thrive naturally.

Sharing moments of joy with others not only relaxes your mind but also creates lasting memories. These positive experiences act as a wellspring for inspiration, infusing your creative process with fresh energy. So, next time you're feeling stuck, plan a fun outing. Whether it's a coffee break with colleagues or a casual hangout with friends, these moments of enjoyment can be the catalyst for unlocking your creative potential. Remember, a happy mind is a creative mind.

Use the “Three Ifs”

Use clever questions to inspire your thoughts on a concept. Build your creative thinking by asking questions like these:

These questions or ones like them, can be powerful tools to help you think differently. Repeatedly use the three questions test in all types of the situations. Ideas will begin to flow and enable you to think more creatively.

Take advantage of the peak hours that you feel most productive.

Discovering your peak productive hours is like finding a superpower for creativity. Pay attention to when you feel most energized and alert; that's your golden time to unleash your creative juices. Whether it's the quiet early morning or the serene late night, harnessing your peak hours can make a significant difference in your creative output.

Interestingly, some people find their creativity peaks during times of emotional stress. While stress is generally seen as a challenge, it can also be a catalyst for innovative thinking. During these moments, create a conducive environment – play some uplifting music, surround yourself with inspiring visuals, and let the creative magic happen.

Creating during your peak hours allows you to tap into your highest potential, where ideas flow more effortlessly. It's not just about the quantity of time but about the quality of your focus and energy. So, identify your peak hours, embrace them, and turn them into your creative sanctuary. By aligning your creative pursuits with your peak productivity, you can enhance both the quality and quantity of your imaginative endeavors.

Interact with creative and inspiring people.

Engaging with creative and inspiring individuals is like adding fuel to your creativity fire. Make it a habit to interact regularly with people who spark your imagination. These encounters offer a wealth of fresh ideas and unique perspectives that can breathe new life into your creative endeavors.

Sharing thoughts with creative minds not only expands your horizons but also provides a valuable exchange of ideas. These interactions become a breeding ground for inspiration, helping you re-focus on the creative concepts that resonate most with you. It's like having a creative brainstorming session where everyone contributes to the pool of innovative thinking.

Furthermore, connecting with creative people helps you sift through your options and refine your ideas. It's not just about gathering information but about cultivating a supportive network that fosters creativity. So, whether it's colleagues, friends, or mentors, surround yourself with those who inspire you. Their creativity can act as a guiding light, steering you towards the creative ideas that align best with your vision. In the collaborative dance of ideas, you might just discover the missing piece to your creative puzzle.

Take risks.

Embracing risks is the final frontier in enhancing your creative thinking. Often, the fear of taking risks can stifle your ideas and keep your creativity hidden. Risks, however, provide the freedom to break free from the norm, encouraging you to think outside the box and wholeheartedly embrace your creative ideas.

It's essential to understand that creativity is not reserved for a select few; everyone has the potential to be a creative thinker. By taking risks, you unlock the door to uncharted territories of imagination. These risks give you permission to explore unconventional paths, fostering a spirit of innovation and originality.

Creativity is a skill that can be cultivated, nurtured, and built upon. Don't shy away from pushing your boundaries and challenging the status quo. Taking risks allows you to tap into your full creative potential, unleashing ideas that might have otherwise remained dormant.

In the grand scheme of creativity, risk-taking is the catalyst for continuous inspiration. So, don't be afraid to step into the unknown, take that leap of faith, and let your creativity soar. By building your creativity through calculated risks, you pave the way for a more inspired and creative mindset, ensuring that creativity becomes a constant companion on your journey.