Unlocking Your Creativity
Today, many people are looking for ways of increase their creative abilities. You may be wondering if you even have much creativity. The truth is, the only way to answer this question is to try. If you never try, you simply will never know.
My guess is that we all probably have a measure of creativity that we’re not using because we fail to try.
In this short article, I’m going to give you five easy steps you can use immediately to try your hand at using the creative process. Think about how great it would be to discover that you have a hidden talent, that didn’t even know you had!
Here are the five steps.
1. Identify a problem or opportunity;
2. Prepare;
3. Reframe;
4. Reflect; and
5. Validate.
Step 1: Your first step is to identify and select a problem you want to solve, or an opportunity you want to take advantage of. Look at it like a goal, so be as specific as possible. Name it and write it down.
By the way, you will absolutely need to use a journal.
Step 2: Next, you are going to look at ways you can reframe your problem or situation. Reframing is a powerful tool you can use to put your situation in a different setting, which can help you perceive it in a better or different light.
A good example would be the unexpected loss of a job which you would probably identify as a problem. The fact is, you can just as easily look at it as an opportunity to pursue your purpose in life or a passion you have. This puts your situation in a new frame which is not only positive, but exciting. Passion and excitement will work more to your advantage than fear.
Step 3: Once you have a new frame for your situation, it’s now time for some research. With the tools that are available today, research has never been easier. The important thing to remember about research thought, is thoroughness. This is not the place you want to hold back or half step.
At this point, I want to re-stress the importance of carefully writing things down, and being sure to assess the ones that appeal to you the most. You can even rate your findings with stars.
Step 4: Once your research is complete, next is reflection. The amount of time you spend reflecting will vary based on the nature of your situation. There are two approaches you can think about at this stage: imagination or conventional thinking.
But don’t be afraid to use your imagination by thinking outside of the box. Don’t discount something that is different or seems crazy impossible. An unlocked imagination just may produce novel ideas. Turn it loose! Go for it!
By the same token, don’t be afraid of looking at the more conventional solutions either. You don’t necessarily have to re-invent the wheel to find your best solution.
Step 5: The last step in the process is validity. This is where you begin the process of finding out what works and what does not work for you.
Begin with a plan to test the idea(s) that appeal to you the most. Create a simple plan with steps for how you will test your top two or three choices. As you are working through your plans, stay focused and look for insights which often come as bursts of ideas. Don’t miss them or fail to write them down because they can disappear as quickly as they pop up.
Wishing you well with your new creativity!
Coach DianaD