Creating Creativity---A Skill, Not A Gift

Creativity is often thought of as a gift or as an aspect of someone's being. Creative people are often thought of as having "been born that way." Many people will interact with a person reputed to be a 'creative genius' and assume that such creativity will never exist for them.

I believe that someone who is labeled as being 'creative' is really someone who is good at keeping secrets. People who don't disclose information as to where (or from whom) they may have learned something can appear to be quite brilliant at times. Even mysterious and awe-inspiring.

To 'boost' your own creativity, begin by encouraging your mind to see things differently. Simple things like driving a different and unfamiliar route to a very familiar destination can open new thought pathways. Scientists report that simply brushing your teeth with a different hand can spark new and subtle insights. New thought patterns.

Other changes you can employ include adding 1 or 2 new words to your vocabulary every week. To really incorporate and 'own' a new word it is important to use it 5 times in conversations with other people over the span of a few days. Make those new words really yours and your mind will begin seeing things differently (and creatively). You will see (and think) things you did not see/think before.

An additional approach to creativity is to notice things from a different perspective. You have felt the steering wheel of your car with your hands countless times. However, have you ever really noticed it? Is it smooth or irregular when you brush it with your thumb? How about your 'baby' finger? What does it sound like when you thump it with your finger? How about when you tap it with your ring? Your fingernail? etc. etc.

These actions may seem trivial and even silly. However, it is a mistake to under estimate the amazing power of the human mind to extrapolate ideas from one environment to another. To see things from a vantage point that others have never considered is at the core of what it means to be creative.

Consider how a child may play with and explore something new in their environment. Then consider the fact that no matter how old (experienced) you may be, the world can be a continual source of brand new perspectives for you.

The subconscious (creative) mind gives back to you more and more of what you expect it to do. Raising your expectation level can be the stumbling block because our thinking habits can form some very deep and repetitive behavior 'ruts'. Still whether you are pursuing more creativity (or any other attribute) remember the adage, "by the inch it's a cinch. By the yard it's hard."

Start low and go slow. Then remember to reward yourself with congratulatory praise when you learn that new word, drive that new route or see the old and familiar with a new view. Your mind loves such praise and will respond by giving you more creative insights and ideas.

To being all you can be-

K.C. Moore, RPh