How To Boost Your Creativity Using Unlikely Left-Brain Approaches
Creativity is the magic behind innovation and groundbreaking ideas. But let's be real, keeping that creativity flowing is tough. Today, we're on a journey to fix that—a journey that's not about fleeting bursts of creativity but a lasting surge. How? We’ll dive into some unexpected left-brain tactics that can reshape the way we think and create.
Creativity matters—not as a buzzword, but as a real skill that unlocks growth. Whether you're an artist or entrepreneur, parent or student, we all need those lightbulb moments to solve problems. But having good ideas on command isn't easy, with constant distractions and burnout. The good news? There are proven ways to build your creative capacities, bit by bit. Let's talk about sparking fresh thinking and unleashing innovation in our lives!
Morning Routine Makeover: Rethinking Mornings for Creativity Kickstart
Mornings set the tone for our whole day. But doing the same dull routine day after day can zap your creativity before you even start work. What if you could rethink your A.M. habits to jumpstart innovative thinking? The trick is to blend analytical activities into your morning. Things like puzzles, strategic planning, or reflecting on ideas. This warmup prepares your mind to effortlessly switch into creative mode later.
For me, it started with reading motivational or instructional non-fiction while listening to certain music. I saw an increase in creative brain-storming and felt less blocked by administrative problem solving.
Tech Detox for Clarity: Breaking Free from Digital Clutter
Our devices always demand our attention, clouding clear and creative thinking. To break free, try a tech detox once in a while. It's too easy to stay plugged-in 24/7, constantly digitally stimulated, which doesn’t help foster fresh perspectives.
On my iPhone’s custom lockscreen, I scheduled a “secular Sabbath” screen that activates during a designated schedule. (nota bene: I’m aware using tech is not considered kosher, which is why I qualify it as “secular” and mean no disrespect. I also didn’t invent this concept but came across it on a random clickhole afternoon. Happy to rephrase for anyone that respectfully brings it to my attention.) Normally, all my notifications other than calls and texts and school-related apps are already off. With this “secular Sabbath” setting, my access is limited even further by only giving a handful of apps visibility on my home screen.
Creativity Loves a New Challenge: How Learning New Skills Sparks Ideas
The comfort zone is the enemy of creativity. Sticking to familiar skills can limit your creative growth. To break free from this, challenge your left brain by learning a new skill. This can be anything from picking up a musical instrument to delving into coding. As you level up skills outside your expertise, get ready for an awesome ripple effect...You'll infuse creative thinking across everything else you do!
I spent a few months teaching myself a new productivity app and as I leveled-up my understanding, I found myself expressing myself creatively and connecting ideas I’ve had in the past that I didn’t know how to execute on.
Mix Things Up for Innovation: Combine Left-Brain and Right-Brain Activities
Do analytical thinking and creativity seem totally separate in your mind? It doesn't have to stay that way. Merging left-brain exercises with creative pursuits creates a harmonious synergy. Your mind starts sparking wildly to make connections across different modes.
I started applying marketing’s hub and spoke model to my content creation and organization and immediately saw an increase in efficiency along with a wellspring of spur-of-the-moment inspiration. Cross-train your mental muscles to unlock seriously innovative thinking!
Rethinking routines, unplugging from tech, learning novel skills...these unlikely boosters cross-train our brains for maximum creativity. As I stepped outside of comfort zones, I broke from conventional thinking and thrived where analytical meets imaginative. You can observe fresh perspectives and ideas igniting everywhere when you fuse logic with artistry becuase your mind craves this varied challenge. The left and right brain hold such promise once you mix things up daily—and creativity surges when this potential is unlocked.