"I saw the angel in the marble and carved until I set him free." Michelangelo
Creativity is often an elusive concept. It is difficult to define or teach, but we know creativity when we see it. When you are trying to come up with new programs, new products, or new ideas; it is tempting to try to force the solution. I like Michelangelo’s quote because his creative process decreases pressure and allows free flowing action and thoughts. He also reveals what we know to be true in our hearts- that a creative idea is often the result of uncovering and releasing something. Some ways to tap into free flowing creative thought are to:
· Practice relaxation techniques- deep breathing/meditation/prayer
· Read a variety of sources
· Listen to others
· Keep a notebook closeby to record ideas
· Read through past journal entries
· Tap into nature- sit by a stream, a lake, the ocean
· Listen to music- yoga, mediation CD’s ,soft classical
· Quiet your spirit
· Write or create without prejudging- let it flow – you can streamline and edit later
· Engage in physical activity- walking, dancing, stretching
· Sleep on it
I find that I experience great inspiration for writing through nature, prayers, and meditation. If I feel stressed and pressured, I am not in the creative zone. In fact, I gave up trying to force creativity quite awhile ago. Instead, I cultivate my spirituality and my mind and allow creativity in.
If you try some of the techniques above and still feel blocked, change your focus to a different project and revisit your project when you feel refreshed.
Accept a creative idea as a great gift and fill your heart with appreciation. Enjoy the creative moment and celebrate it. Be sure to demonstrate appreciation for other's creativity as well. The energy from sincere appreciation ignites a new spark that carries you forward in your life.
Sheri Kaye Hoff
Life Coach and Author of Keys to Living Joyfully
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