One day I found myself in a room with several hundred highly creative and passionate entrepreneurs from around the world. There was a level of energy and expectation that rippled through the room as we waited for the conference to begin. From the lighting to the music being played to the pictures on the big screen of the previous night’s “meet and greet” social to the optimal ambient room temperature and the physical arrangement of the seating-everything had been carefully crafted to create an environment that would bring out exactly what the speaker wanted-which was to create a group of fully associated (i.e. “in the present moment”), highly energetic, and sharply focused individuals who were relaxed, playful, and ready to receive the presenter’s message.
As I got to know some of the very talented people in the room and the amazing things which they had accomplished, my “coaching” hat came out and I started to wonder about “creativity” and “passion.” How does creativity begin? Does it start as a dream? Does a light bulb suddenly appear over your head? Or is there something specific you can do to spark your creativity and passion.
As I got to know some of the very talented people in the room and the amazing things which they had accomplished, my “coaching” hat came out and I started to wonder about “creativity” and “passion.” How does creativity begin? Does it start as a dream? Does a light bulb suddenly appear over your head? Or is there something specific you can do to spark your creativity and passion.
Creativity is the catalyst for innovation. Without it, the world as we know it wouldn’t even exist. Someone, somewhere was creative enough to develop new technologies and techniques that have increased both our quality and quantity of life. The people around me in that workshop were living examples of people coming up with new and exciting ideas and products on a regular basis. How can they do it while so many others of us struggle in this area?
The truth is, believe it or not, we are all creative . While we may be creative in different ways, creativity is within us, just waiting to be uncovered. Creativity is the product which comes from being in a particular “state” where you are able to transcend your own artificially imposed limitations and allow your mind to explore beyond these narrow boundaries. Because it comes from being “in state,” it is therefore something which you can consciously summon whenever you need it–once you understand how you have wired yourself to “do” creativity.
Everyone has different rituals and routines to ignite their creativity, but let’s go through some ways you can implement right now to immediately spark creativity and passion in your life:
1) Create a list of 100. The ideas don’t have to be connected, but simply write out 100 ideas that come to mind in a single sitting. This may seem daunting, but the purpose is to generate uncensored and unfiltered thoughts that can be used as a foundation for a bigger idea. You can always filter the ideas later on, so focus on quantity, not quality at first. For example, the presenter in the workshop I mentioned above had us do was to make a list of 100 ways we could manifest money overnight and a prize was offered for the person who could bring the most new money to the meeting the next day. I struggled to come up with 15, but the winner brought in evidence of over $10,000 manifested overnight through a wide variety of large and small ideas. That exercise really stuck with me and I try to use it with my coaching clients who say, “I’ve tried EVERYTHING and can’t get the results I’m after.” You probably haven’t tried EVERYTHING, or even 100 things! Maybe 2-3-4 things 50 times and gotten the same poor result. This exercise helps to break through that barrier and find something completely new to try out.
2) Stimulate all of the senses. Try something different that involves the senses. For example, go to a wine tasting, art museum, concert or even a masseuse. You just might discover a fresh idea by stimulating your body and mind with new things. Change the lighting in your “thinking” space. Find the right music that gets you into a flow state.
3) Surround yourself with positive, inspiring words. Stories, positive affirmations, and motivational quotes are always great starting points to tap into your creativity. Put up a new screensaver on your computer desktop. Photoshop yourself into a group photo with your own “dream team.” You just might be inspired to look within after reading the inspirational stories or thoughts of others.
4) Get out of the house and take a drive. You may be able to think clearer when you’re alone in the car. Turn off the radio (which will be jarring at first if you’re not used to silence) and tune into your own thoughts circulating in your head. There are plenty of creative ideas already within your mind; you just have to become more aware of them!
5) Try the color yellow. I don’t know the science behind this, and it may sound strange, but psychologists believe that the color yellow inspires creativity. Architecture firms have a tendency to paint their walls yellow. Give it a try and see how it affects you.
6) Speed up the process by getting a group together. There are plenty of people around the world who love to talk, so get them talking! Set up a Google + hangout or host a conference call. Get them together over a glass of wine or a cup of coffee and ask them questions. Allow the responses to guide your thoughts and ideas. You just may come up with a unique and creative solution by using the brainpower of others–and they’ll love you for recognizing them and asking for their input.
7) Take a break. If you’re under stress or pressure, it’s time to relax. After all, our minds need a break! Your relaxation routine doesn’t have to be extravagant. I have a Sudoku puzzle app on my IPad which provide a nice diversion. Consider taking a 15-minute walk (your dog will be happy to go with you!). Get a glass of water to stay hydrated. Try a short meditation session or “desk yoga” to provide a bit of relaxation. By refreshing your body and mind, you will actually return more creative than ever.
Now it’s Time to Find Your Own Creative Routine! Everyone is unique, so you may have a different way to spark your creativity. That’s okay! You can use these seven creativity tips as a guide to help you uncover unique solutions to ordinary problems.
Would you like some help in getting started? Let me know! I’d love to spend some time talking with you! We can explore what your bold, new life could look like and exciting it will be for you to be living it sooner rather than later.
A great way to get started is with a 45 minute FREE life transformation strategy session.
In this session we will:
Click here to schedule your complimentary session!
My new Facebook site is now up! Please visit. I’d appreciate your “Like!” and if you sign up for my e-list from Facebook, I’ll send you my latest time management suggestions.
Want to use this article on your website or your own Ezine?
Thanks for appreciating the value of this content. You’re welcome to reproduce this article, but you must reproduce it in its entirety and leave all the links active. Additionally, here is the short bio that you should include:
Dr. Steve Stutz, CC is a Life Success Coach, specializing in helping clergy and professional church workers not only survive but to thrive during periods of crisis, transition, and renewal. To receive periodic personal development tips and success mindset articles, please join his e-list by visiting www.forwardpathcoaching.com
The truth is, believe it or not, we are all creative . While we may be creative in different ways, creativity is within us, just waiting to be uncovered. Creativity is the product which comes from being in a particular “state” where you are able to transcend your own artificially imposed limitations and allow your mind to explore beyond these narrow boundaries. Because it comes from being “in state,” it is therefore something which you can consciously summon whenever you need it–once you understand how you have wired yourself to “do” creativity.
Everyone has different rituals and routines to ignite their creativity, but let’s go through some ways you can implement right now to immediately spark creativity and passion in your life:
1) Create a list of 100. The ideas don’t have to be connected, but simply write out 100 ideas that come to mind in a single sitting. This may seem daunting, but the purpose is to generate uncensored and unfiltered thoughts that can be used as a foundation for a bigger idea. You can always filter the ideas later on, so focus on quantity, not quality at first. For example, the presenter in the workshop I mentioned above had us do was to make a list of 100 ways we could manifest money overnight and a prize was offered for the person who could bring the most new money to the meeting the next day. I struggled to come up with 15, but the winner brought in evidence of over $10,000 manifested overnight through a wide variety of large and small ideas. That exercise really stuck with me and I try to use it with my coaching clients who say, “I’ve tried EVERYTHING and can’t get the results I’m after.” You probably haven’t tried EVERYTHING, or even 100 things! Maybe 2-3-4 things 50 times and gotten the same poor result. This exercise helps to break through that barrier and find something completely new to try out.
2) Stimulate all of the senses. Try something different that involves the senses. For example, go to a wine tasting, art museum, concert or even a masseuse. You just might discover a fresh idea by stimulating your body and mind with new things. Change the lighting in your “thinking” space. Find the right music that gets you into a flow state.
3) Surround yourself with positive, inspiring words. Stories, positive affirmations, and motivational quotes are always great starting points to tap into your creativity. Put up a new screensaver on your computer desktop. Photoshop yourself into a group photo with your own “dream team.” You just might be inspired to look within after reading the inspirational stories or thoughts of others.
4) Get out of the house and take a drive. You may be able to think clearer when you’re alone in the car. Turn off the radio (which will be jarring at first if you’re not used to silence) and tune into your own thoughts circulating in your head. There are plenty of creative ideas already within your mind; you just have to become more aware of them!
5) Try the color yellow. I don’t know the science behind this, and it may sound strange, but psychologists believe that the color yellow inspires creativity. Architecture firms have a tendency to paint their walls yellow. Give it a try and see how it affects you.
6) Speed up the process by getting a group together. There are plenty of people around the world who love to talk, so get them talking! Set up a Google + hangout or host a conference call. Get them together over a glass of wine or a cup of coffee and ask them questions. Allow the responses to guide your thoughts and ideas. You just may come up with a unique and creative solution by using the brainpower of others–and they’ll love you for recognizing them and asking for their input.
7) Take a break. If you’re under stress or pressure, it’s time to relax. After all, our minds need a break! Your relaxation routine doesn’t have to be extravagant. I have a Sudoku puzzle app on my IPad which provide a nice diversion. Consider taking a 15-minute walk (your dog will be happy to go with you!). Get a glass of water to stay hydrated. Try a short meditation session or “desk yoga” to provide a bit of relaxation. By refreshing your body and mind, you will actually return more creative than ever.
Now it’s Time to Find Your Own Creative Routine! Everyone is unique, so you may have a different way to spark your creativity. That’s okay! You can use these seven creativity tips as a guide to help you uncover unique solutions to ordinary problems.
Would you like some help in getting started? Let me know! I’d love to spend some time talking with you! We can explore what your bold, new life could look like and exciting it will be for you to be living it sooner rather than later.
A great way to get started is with a 45 minute FREE life transformation strategy session.
In this session we will:
- Uncover hidden challenges that may be the cause of chaos, stress and discord in your life.
- Create a crystal clear vision for your “ultimate life” of tremendous success on your terms with ample quality time and energy for all your priorities.
- Leave the session renewed, re-energized, and inspired to transform your life and accomplish all of the things that are really important to you.
Click here to schedule your complimentary session!
My new Facebook site is now up! Please visit. I’d appreciate your “Like!” and if you sign up for my e-list from Facebook, I’ll send you my latest time management suggestions.
Want to use this article on your website or your own Ezine?
Thanks for appreciating the value of this content. You’re welcome to reproduce this article, but you must reproduce it in its entirety and leave all the links active. Additionally, here is the short bio that you should include:
Dr. Steve Stutz, CC is a Life Success Coach, specializing in helping clergy and professional church workers not only survive but to thrive during periods of crisis, transition, and renewal. To receive periodic personal development tips and success mindset articles, please join his e-list by visiting www.forwardpathcoaching.com
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