7 tips to stay creative

1: draw inspiration from others

To get started, explore what similar businesses are up. You can easily do this by checking out their website or looking through their social media accounts. You obviously don’t want to copy ideas from others but you can use it as a springboard for your creativity. You can do this with thinking about how to make an idea your own or incorporate the concept into your own business.

2: create an inspiration folder on your desktop

I have a folder I maintain on my desktop labeled “design inspiration” so when I see a design I like, I take a screenshot and I add it to the folder. So, when I am in need of inspiration, I don’t need to go looking around, and I can take a look in my folder which I know is full of designs I like.

3: harness morning creativity

For many, mornings are when creative thoughts flow most freely. Completing your creative tasks during this time can boost your efficiency and idea generation. Recognize the times of day when you are most creative and schedule your creative work then. Leave email responses and administrative tasks for periods when you need a break from creative endeavors.

3: clear your mind

Before getting started on my creative work, I like to write down all the things I need to do that day. This can clear your mind, to allow creative ideas to flow more easily.

Going on a walk to step away from your desk can also be a great way to clear your brain and refresh your thinking. Coming back to your work with “fresh eyes” can be helpful to see the bigger picture, preventing you from getting stuck in the nitty-grittys.

4: maintain a clean space

Working in a clean space, can be helpful for not getting distracted from objects around you and can help you stay focused on what you are creating. Regularly organize your desk to prevent chaos from piling up. This will be extremely helpful to foster creative energy and get in the creative zone.

5: Set quiet time to think through ideas

Creativity flows when you aren’t busy responding to other people’s email or checking off things on your to-do list. This is because you are using the “right” side of your brain for all these tasks. Right brain thinking includes facts, logic, and linear thinking. While “Left” brain thinking is where creativity and imagination come from. To tap into creativity, you will need to have time to visualize which you can do when you are able to let your mind wander and “day dream”. Walking without distractions is an excellent way to step back from immediate tasks and envision the broader picture. It can be challenging to detach from technology, but setting time for uninterrupted reflection can unlock more creative ideas.

6: brainstorming session

I’m sure you’ve heard of this idea before, but it can always work. Sit down with a pen and paper and write down whatever idea comes to mind without judgement. You can even set a timer for 10 minutes and see how many ideas you can come up within that time frame. Don’t worry if an idea is feasible or not, just continue to think of ideas. Once completed, sift through your ideas and decide which one will work best or makes the most sense to get started with.

7: use the world as your inspiration

There is so much inspiration in the world around us which can be used to our advantage. Take notice of the signs on buses, billboards, colors on buildings, event flyers, and what is around you. All of these can serve as sources of fresh ideas.

Best of luck staying creative!