Scott Spjut’s post:
“Sometimes creativity is a lightning strike; it happens at an instant and seemingly from out of nowhere. However, that kind of creativity is often what leads to one-hit wonders and failed movie sequels. Continued success requires habitual creativity.
This may seem counter-intuitive to some. Creativity isn’t something you can force, so how can you possibly be creative every day? Keep in mind, a habit of creativity doesn’t necessarily guarantee an amazing breakthrough outcome each and every day. It may turn out, especially at first, most days result in creations that aren’t that great, inspiring, creative, or useful. But simply going through the process of creativity helps you become more creative.
Good writers write every day. Good mathematicians do math every day. Good entrepreneurs undertake new projects every day. It’s not necessarily about the result or end product - although ending the day with something significant is nice - but it’s about the process. Getting into the habit of creativity will make you more creative.
So how do you create each day? While creativity cannot, in fact, be forced, creating a proper environment for creativity will lend itself to productivity. Here are some steps to take:
1. Set aside some time each day for creative pursuits. It can be about art, business, relationships, or anything you see fit. But be sure you stick to your schedule.
2. Once you set aside a specific time, set the minimum amount of time you’ll spend in this creative session. Going longer is always okay - especially if your creativity really happens to flourish that day - but giving yourself enough time helps solidify the process
3. Have a specific place for your creativity. Try to find a quiet, calm place. Over time, our bodies will learn to associate that certain room with creativity. This will prime your brain and make your sessions more effective.
4. Come prepared with any items you may need. You may only need a pen and paper, maybe a glass of water, but be sure you have everything you need when you sit down so you do not have to get up in the middle of your creativity.
5. Create. Just try. Go through the process. Some days will seem more successful than others, but every day you do it will be a success if only for the fact that you’re putting yourself through the process.
Spending time each day doing this will get you in the habit of creativity. You may be surprised at what you’re able to accomplish. Of course, still be aware of those lightning strikes; you can be hit with creativity at any moment (which is why you may want to consider carrying a digital recorder or pen and paper with you wherever you go). But a habit of creation will help you in all your endeavors.”
Scott Spjut is a writer and editor who has been featured in various magazines, newspapers and websites, including Newsweek, the Washington Post, CBS News and the Las Vegas Review-Journal. With a B.A. in Communications, he continues to write on a wealth of topics - politics, health and fitness, business, marketing and more. He currently works with PMI Coaching helping people reach their goals.
Lasneski’s comments:
Although I disagree with Spjut that creativity is a like a lightning strike, I think his suggestions for 5 Steps to take are excellent ideas. I also support the notion of “habitual creativity”. The whole lightning strike idea is a myth based on the feeling of “A-ha!” one gets from a sudden insight. But “sudden” insights rarely come out of the blue sky; they are more a result of a subconscious process that can be consciously understood and utilized. Something I love to teach…
Please comment and share your thoughts.
