Creativity is one of those things that can go away quickly. Many of us might not even remember the last time we were creative. As kids, our parents and teachers had countless crafts we could make to spark our creativity. All of these things help our imagination grow. Sadly, when we become adults, not much importance is placed on creativity.
Rather than being creative, we are told to be logical. Instead of thinking abstract ideas, we are told we need to think realistically. All of these things can quickly kill our creative side. Whether you are trying to tune into your creative side again or are just looking for some ideas to explore art, music, or literature, you have come to the right place.
Here are five ways to increase your creativity:
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1. Get Outside
One way to increase your creativity is to get outside. I have noticed getting outside every day for a walk really boosts my creativity. It gives me the chance to relax and get my mind off "realistic," stressful things. By having time away from the stresses of everyday life, I am more able to focus on being creative and tuning into my creative side. Maybe the same will work for you. You never know how a short walk can inspire your next idea for a writing piece, a song, or an artwork design.
There is something magical about getting outside and allowing your imagination to thrive. In fact, nature is a testament to God's miraculous power, beauty, and creativity. If you are trying to get creative in the sense of figuring out how to solve a family issue, getting outside can also help. Nature can clear your head and give you a chance to think about possible solutions.
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2. Try a New Hobby
Trying a new hobby is another way to increase your creativity. When you start a new hobby, it can help you tap into more creative zones than before. This is especially true if you are an artist and trying to find a new medium. Even if you are not a professional artist, you can still try your hand at something new. Try jewelry making, crocheting, or splatter painting. If you have not been in the habit of creativity, try to start small. Try painting a simple picture, drawing a still life, or writing a poem for a loved one.
All of these little things can help your creativity flourish and bloom. If you are thinking of something outside of artwork or writing, consider a hobby such as ice skating, hiking, or cross-country running. All of these sports can also instill creativity into you. This might sound odd at first, but doing something you love, whether that is sports or something else, can help your creative juices flow.
We are most in our element when we are doing something we enjoy. By participating in a hobby you love, you will be able to have more creativity come into your heart and soul. Therefore, think carefully about what hobby you want to try and keep with it. Ensure you set aside time in your day for this hobby and don’t forget to place it at a time in your day when you are not stressed and reap the harvest of your creativity. (Speaking of a harvest, perhaps you can try your hand at gardening or starting a plant collection!)
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3. Listen to Inspiring Music
A third way to increase your creativity is to listen to inspirational music, especially adventurous, fantastical music. This is a tactic I’ve seen my sister do as she is currently working on her first book. Whenever she is in need of inspiration, she plays fantasy and adventure music. She has mentioned several times that these music selections really boost her creativity. If you are also working on a book as my sister is, maybe you could try listening to fantasy and adventure music.
It is important to ensure the music matches your overall plot line. If you are writing a sad scene, make sure you have music in the background to match it. In the same way, if you are writing a battle scene, make sure you have music to match this too. Maybe you are in the beginning stages of the writing process and you don’t even know what to write about yet. Know this is okay too. Just listening to music can spark creativity in you.
Play fifteen minutes of inspirational music and see how it impacts your creativity. Chances are, you have already come up with a storyline or a few scenes in your head just while you were listening. It is amazing what our human minds can do. God has really blessed us by giving us creativity, imagination, and the hands to bring our creation to fruition. Just like our amazing Creator, we want to create things and bring His Name glory through them.
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4. Turn Something Practical into Something Creative
A fourth way to increase your creativity is to turn something practical into something creative. As an example, maybe your mailbox has been out of service for a while or is broken. Try to build your own mailbox and design it the way you want. Paint your mailbox or decorate it however you want. This is one idea of many that you could try in your everyday life.
In the same way, maybe your child is working on a school project. You could get involved and help them with their project. They might need you to paint a certain part of their project or help them glue a rocket together. Look at the opportunities around you in your daily routine because there is always a reason to be creative. Even if you feel there is no way to be creative right now, you can still pull out your phone and write a poem, a song, or an idea for a future creative project. There are endless opportunities to be creative—don't miss out on them!
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5. Watch a Sunset
A fifth way to increase your creativity is to watch a sunset. While this might sound basic, it can really help spark creativity in your heart. Watch a sunset and absorb all of its beauty in your heart. Take special note of the colors in the sky, the colors of the clouds, and how it feels outside. Allow all of these things to breathe creativity into you. God is the master artist, and He is the One who paints the sky every morning and every evening.
We want to create things because of God. What is a better way to get inspired to be creative than to reflect on His beautiful creation? If you are unable to see a sunset, try to watch the sunrise or just reflect on the beauty of God’s creation in another way. Reflect on the beauty of the clouds, the flowers, and your loved ones. All of these things and people were created by God Himself. He is the source of all creativity, and when we focus on Him and the beauty He brings, we will be most inspired.
Photo Credit: ©Pexels/Jonathan Petersson
Originally published Tuesday, 13 August 2024.
