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Unlocking Creativity: Techniques and Exercises for Enhanced Innovation
/>Let’s put aside the Wikipedia explanation and try to think together what creativity is? Perhaps it is the ability to combine things that have not been combined before, or to think out the box? Or maybe it’s finding unusual solutions?All the options that come to mind will be correct! Creativity can manifest itself in different ways in different situations, so don’t limit yourself to one explanation!
A short list of tips designed to enhance creativity:
- Generate as many ideas as possible through brainstorming.
- Write down ideas in a special notebook or notes.
- Rest, which allows you to better focus on yourself and your feelings.
- Participating in various activities and hobbies to get inspired
- Working in a team to share ideas and find unexpected solutions.
- Do not be afraid of mistakes and failures, as they are a necessary part of the development process.
Brainstorm
This is where you get the first life hack: don’t limit yourself to one explanation. For example, there is a black color. The first thought that may lie on the surface is something anxious or unknown. However, black can play any role depending on the context. Many elegant clothing or car brands have black as their main color.
You can apply this exercise to any concept or object. For instance, start by selecting an ordinary object like a kettle and brainstorm different situations where it can be utilized, beyond its basic function of heating water.
Essentially, the brainstorming method involves generating numerous ideas, regardless of how simple or unusual they may appear. Consider approaching the problem from various perspectives, as an unconventional approach may lead to fascinating results.
Note it!
The second very simple, yet difficult life hack: write down your ideas! Have you figured out how to make a sandwich? Write it down! Have you figured out how to hide a hole in your socks? Write it down! Invented a game, even though you’ve never held a gamepad before? Pfft, write it down!
I use native iOS notes and Notion to write down ideas. I’ve divided them into several categories: games, art, startups, business ideas, and random (which don’t fit into the above categories).
"Don’t worry if you can’t implement this idea at the moment. It may not be the right time yet, or it may become the basis for another idea." 🚀
Try various activities
This is my favorite tool. I can’t focus solely on my job and exist within the confines of UX/UI design. Engaging in unconventional hobbies, and courses, or simply enjoying free time inspires me.
Consider this scenario: you start baking buckwheat bread at home regularly. In the beginning, the aroma is distinct, and you notice various notes in its flavor. You are savoring it. However, with time, you become accustomed to the scent and can make bread with ease. Eventually, you may not even notice the aroma anymore.
However, if you decide to switch it up and make a lemon pie or buy tangerines, your brain undergoes reactive changes, and you start working at full capacity. This novel experience of baking a lemon pie might inspire you to create a unique recipe for lemon buckwheat bread that earns 5 stars from Michelin for your innovative bakery!
While this example might not be perfect, the brain occasionally needs new incentives to form new neural connections.
Take a deep breath and exhale
Imagine you’re doing a yoga exercise, gathering all the air molecules around you. This is how I approach my lifestyle. At times, I find myself caught up in the constant cycle of doing, doing, doing!
For months, I actively pursue my studies, take courses, and read extensively. But then, I allow myself a much-needed break, especially after prolonged periods of hard work. During these breaks, I indulge in activities like playing The Witcher 3: The Wild Hunt, which helps me recharge. Once I’ve unloaded my work, I’m ready to move forward again.
Resting helps me focus better on myself and my emotions. It allows me to organize my thoughts and put everything in its proper place. This way, I can access my ideas and insights at the right time, enabling me to be more productive and effective in the long run.
One for all and all for one
To develop creative thinking, working in a team is another effective approach. Share your ideas with others, discuss them, and search for solutions together. This can result in innovative and unforeseen ideas, as well as assist you in viewing the issue from a different perspective. Each individual has distinct experiences and viewpoints, so if you are unable to work offline in a team, begin a themed group or blog. This way, you may explore a completely different aspect of an idea.
Mistakes? That’s great!
Making mistakes and encountering failures should not be feared, as they are essential parts of the development and creative process. Even if an idea fails, it can serve as a starting point for a better one. Remember that creative thinking requires time and practice, so continuously develop your skills and embrace new challenges. Believe in yourself and avoid complacency.