Imagine Michael, a software engineer who never considered himself “creative.” One day, during a particularly stressful week, he decided to sketch a few doodles during his lunch break—something simple, just to relax. To his surprise, not only did he find joy in this spontaneous activity, but he also discovered that his mind was opening up to new ideas and solutions. Michael realized that creativity isn’t about being born with a special gift; it’s about exploring, persisting, and trying new things. And just like Michael, you too can be creative!
In this article, we’re going to explore 7 proven ways to boost your creativity—methods that are practical, easy, and open to everyone. Whether you’re an office worker looking for innovative solutions, a stay-at-home parent wanting to make everyday tasks more fun, or someone who just wants more excitement in life, these tips are for you. Let’s have some fun as we unlock your creative potential!
Debunking Creativity Myths: Creativity Is Not Just for Artists!
Alright, time to bust a major myth! Creativity is not just for the artists or the “naturally gifted.” It’s not a rare unicorn reserved only for painters, musicians, or writers who live in cabins in the woods. Instead, creativity is a skill, not a magical talent you're either born with or without. It's about finding new approaches, embracing possibilities, and—let’s be honest—having a bit of fun along the way!
Elizabeth Gilbert, author of Big Magic, says that creativity is really just about curiosity. She explains, "If you’re alive, you’re a creative person." This means that even if you've never touched a paintbrush or written a sonnet, you are creative by virtue of your curiosity, your questioning nature, and your willingness to explore new things.
illustration created by painter Riccardo Guasco
So, let’s get rid of that narrow definition of creativity and understand that it’s a part of everyday life. Everyone faces problems, and wherever there are problems, there are opportunities for creativity! Whether it's organizing your day more efficiently, spicing up your cooking routine, or even finding a new way to make your kids laugh, creativity is everywhere.
7 Proven Ways to Unlock Your Hidden Creativity
Now that we’ve ditched those old myths, let’s explore some practical ways you can unlock creativity in your everyday life. Here are seven proven methods to help you tap into your hidden potential—with a playful twist!
1. Keep a Journal for Your Wild Ideas
Writing down your thoughts and ideas is one of the most effective ways to spark creativity. Julia Cameron, in her book The Artist’s Way, suggests writing “morning pages”—three pages of stream-of-consciousness writing every morning. Think of it like emptying the junk drawer in your brain before the day begins. Whether it’s a daily diary or a notebook dedicated to crazy ideas (I mean, who doesn’t want an Idea Junkyard Notebook?), journaling is your playground to freely explore without fear of judgment.
And remember, nothing is too weird to write down. The world’s most creative inventions were once just someone’s wild idea. Who thought sitting in a giant coffee cup would become a global sensation (cough Starbucks cough)?
2. Step Outside of Your Comfort Zone
Creativity loves a little chaos. When you’re too comfortable, your brain becomes lazy—like that sleepy cat lounging in the sun all afternoon. Shake things up! It could be something as small as taking a different route to work, trying a dish you’ve never eaten before, or speaking in a fake accent for an entire day (Okay, maybe save that one for a weekend).
Creativity coach and author Todd Henry, who wrote The Accidental Creative, emphasizes that discomfort can actually wake up our brains and force them to think differently. So go ahead, embrace the unknown—who knows, you might end up discovering something amazing!
3. Take Inspiration from Everyday Life – Seriously, Get Curious!
Did you know that Steve Jobs got his inspiration for Apple’s sleek designs from his interest in calligraphy? Everyday life is brimming with creative inspiration—you just have to open your eyes to it. Instead of mindlessly scrolling through your social media feed, take a moment to truly observe the little things around you.
Creative handcraft project, almost translucent collage work from every day materials, crafted by Ehsan Abdollahi.
Whether it’s the colors in your neighbor’s garden, the way the barista designs the foam on your coffee, or the oddly specific conversations you overhear at the grocery store, these can all become jumping-off points for creative thought. Treat the world as your very own living mood board.
4. Collaborate and Brainstorm with Others (Steal Like an Artist!)
Author Austin Kleon’s book, Steal Like an Artist, offers an interesting perspective: great ideas are often a combination of other people’s ideas. Creativity doesn’t happen in a vacuum—so collaborate, brainstorm, and feed off other people’s energy. Invite a friend or colleague over for a “bad ideas” brainstorming session where the worse the idea, the better! You’ll be amazed at how liberating it is to get all the "bad ideas" out, only to realize they lead to some of the best breakthroughs.
If all else fails, remember the classic "Yes, and..." from improv comedy—whatever your brainstorming partner suggests, you just add to it, no matter how ridiculous. The result? Ideas that are not only creative but also hilariously unexpected.
5. Practice Creative Exercises – Yes, It Can Be Silly!
Sometimes your creativity just needs a warm-up, like those stretches you do before working out. Ever tried 30 Circles? Draw 30 blank circles on a piece of paper and turn them into anything that comes to mind—smiley faces, suns, doughnuts, planets, eyeballs... It doesn’t matter. The point is to stretch your imagination.
Another exercise? Try re-writing the ending to your favorite movie. How would you change it if YOU were the director? Could you make Titanic end with a happy musical number? The key is to play without pressure—think of it like a creativity gym where nobody judges your squats. Our best tip for a creative life, start by doing something, anything! Let's take a look on what other people can create handmade, it takes patience.
6. Accept Imperfection – Perfection Is Boring!
One of the biggest creativity killers is the fear of imperfection. Brené Brown puts it well: "Imperfections are not inadequacies; they are reminders that we’re all in this together." Think about it—some of the most memorable art and inventions came from mistakes. Post-it Notes? A failed glue experiment. Chocolate chip cookies? An accidental add-in.
Remember that creativity is supposed to be messy. You’re supposed to make mistakes, scribble over ideas, and turn things upside down. Think of it as making creative spaghetti—throwing a bunch of ingredients into the pot and seeing what amazing concoction turns out. Embrace imperfection, because perfection is downright boring.
7. Take Breaks and Change Your Environment – The Unexpected Playground
Sometimes the best way to solve a problem is to stop thinking about it altogether. Ever notice how the best ideas pop into your head while you’re in the shower, or when you’re doing something entirely unrelated? That’s because creativity needs room to breathe, just like a goldfish (but with less water).
Change your environment—go for a walk, move your workspace outside for a day, or, if possible, take a weekend trip. Author and creativity expert John Cleese suggests that “creativity is not a talent. It is a way of operating.” Taking breaks and giving your mind freedom to roam is often when the most brilliant ideas emerge.
Conclusion – Let’s Unlock Your Creativity Today!
Yes, you can be creative! And guess what? It’s supposed to be fun, silly, imperfect, and full of surprises. Whether you keep a journal for your wild ideas, invite friends over for a brainstorming session, or simply take a different route home from work, remember: creativity is all about exploring possibilities and not taking yourself too seriously.
Start Your Creative Journey
We’d love to hear from you: What’s the silliest way you’ve ever had a creative breakthrough? Share it in the comments below! And don’t forget, if you want to boost your creativity even more, check out our design tutorials and explore our collection of free resources to help you tap into your hidden potential today.
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