5 Ways to Boost Creativity

For some professionals, creativity may seem like a foreign concept. But, before you can get innovative, you have to get creative. Creativity powers innovation by allowing business leaders to expand their perspective, transform their strategic thinking, find new business opportunities, and disrupt industries.

Ready to boost your creativity in and out of the office? Try these four tips:

Practice makes perfect. Creativity is like a muscle—to get the most use out of it, it needs to be trained. Make sure you’re intentionally trying to think creatively any time you see the opportunity to do something new.

Mix it up. Changing your surroundings can provide the spark that your brain needs to come up with a new idea. Rearranging your office or desk setup, cleaning up your bulletin board, or sitting in a new area of the office may provide the inspiration you need.

Work together. Sometimes, all you need is a fresh perspective. If you’re feeling stuck, chat with a coworker from a different department or ask for advice from a colleague in a different field.

Take a break. Your creativity muscles need to rest, too. Take the necessary time for quiet reflection on your new ideas and schedule in breaks during long meetings or work sessions where creativity is required.

Meditation for Creativity

One of the most effective ways to increase your creativity is through meditation. Practicing meditation quiets the mind, allowing new ideas to enter and take root. Meditation can also be done on your time, wherever you are. Here are some ways to make meditation part of your regular work life.

• During lunch, recognize any thoughts of work that enter your mind, and then move on. Choose to be fully present by focusing on your food or conversations.
• Take a walk around the block or down the hall. While walking, focus your attention on the sensations in your feet, ankles, and calves.
• Pause before you work. Before diving into your task list, take a few moments to close your eyes, count your breaths, and allow any thoughts that enter your mind to gently slip away.

These simple, quick techniques will allow your mind to rest and reflect, ensuring you have the brainpower necessary to think creatively and be productive. Read about how meditation can improve your company’s bottom line.