CREATIVE THINKING doesn’t come easy. This is especially the case when we try to force our imagination to come up with something new on the spot.
In my most recent blog post on becoming a creative being, I show how you can generate new ideas even if you don’t consider yourself to be a creative person.
However, I suggest you read this very article first if you’d like to find out why you struggle with creative work. It will help you pinpoint exactly why you’re having a hard time generating good ideas.
1. You Don’t Block off Enough Time for Effortless Activities
You’ll be able to generate your best ideas if you allow your mind to wander.
You’re mind-wandering when your thoughts are not remaining on a single topic for a long period of time. The more thoughts you can think about, the more likely it is that you’ll come across an idea that is new and original.
Mind wandering often happens when you’re driving. Driving a vehicle becomes habitual over time, and like anything that feels effortless and automatic, it doesn’t require a lot of attention to perform, allowing you to daydream.
The creative mind can flourish when it’s in a diffused, unfocused state of thinking.
If you’d like to build your imagination, block off some time for effortless activities. What actions to you perform habitually? And how can you integrate them into your day?
Some Great Books on Creativity
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Creativity: Unleashing the Forces Within
by Osho
Big Magic: Creative Living Beyond Fear
by Elizabeth Gilbert
2. You’re Not in a Positive Mental State
Creative projects are most successful when we’re happy and carefree.
Negative emotions can weigh on our mind, especially if we feel overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, or stress. Feeling like there’s something wrong with you can keep you from entering a state of creativity.
Of course, it’s still possible to get your creative juices flowing when you’re not feeling well. The point is that it’s much more challenging to partake in a creative activity if your mind is clouded.
What changes can you make to your life today to feel better mentally?
I know it’s not easy, but look for small improvements. Perhaps you need to take a break from social media, or maybe you’ll benefit from speaking with a therapist.
3. You Don’t Challenge Yourself Enough
Creative individuals become that way by developing new ways of thinking, decision-making and behaving over time.
It’s not that they were born with the ability to generate original ideas whenever they desire; They can continuously gain a fresh perspective on things because they’ve condition themselves to behave that way.
The perhaps best way to find a great idea and gain a different perspective on an issue is by leaving your comfort zone.
When you challenge yourself, you’re forced to think of ways to solve the problem, which engages your creative mind.
Why Am I Not Creative? Here’s What Will Activate Your Creativity
If you only take one thing away from this article, I hope it’s that your creativity is not lost.
While it’s true that it more challenging to think creatively as you grow up, it’s false to believe that you’ll never be able to come up with a brilliant idea again.
You’re most likely in a creative rut.
That is, you’re likely not feeling creative because you’re not blocking off enough time for effortless activities, are not finding yourself in a positive mental state, or are not challenging yourself enough.
Work on these things, and with time, you’ll be able to engage your creative muscle consistently. If you’d like to channel your own creativity right now and can’t afford to wait this long, check out my article on becoming a more creative being.