Who would you name if I asked you to think of someone creative? Maybe you thought of an artist or musician – someone who makes beautiful things. And of course these people are creative, but what about ourselves?

The dictionary defines creativity as “having the ability to create” and “having or showing imagination.” So, despite what we may believe about ourselves, we are all creative, because we all have an imagination and “the ability to create.”

The modern world however is full of stresses and complexity which block our creative thinking ability. How? Well, our minds – crammed full of unfinished tasks and thoughts, past upsets and future plans – don’t have much room for creative thought and we are often left feeling trapped, limited in our choices.

Scientific research has repeatedly shown that when we’re stressed or under threat we move into the left-hand side of our brain (responsible for logic and rationalizing). Now historically, our stresses and threats would have been mostly physical so this makes sense. If we’re attacked by a bear we don’t want to stand there imagining what a great story it would make – we want to be doing something!

But when we move into the left-hand side of our brains, we make less use of the right side of our brains (responsible for creativity and intuition). And these days, rushing from one thing to the next trying to cram everything in, sleeping less and worrying more, we spend much of our time stressed. And this means we’re in the left-hand side of our brain – logical and rational. We’re probably trying to do more – instead of taking a time out, resting and finding creative solutions to our problems.

No wonder so many people feel stuck! No wonder we keep doing things that make sense logically – but leave us feeling uninspired about life, lost and trapped.

So, what is the antidote?
 
Firstly, curiosity. People who are curious find many subjects and topics fascinating. They naturally ask questions and find inspiration. One fact or idea triggers another. And while we may think creativity is coming up with brand new ideas and concepts, most inventions these days are variations on ideas that already exist, just put to new use. This “sideways” thinking can help you make improvements to your life too.

"The most important thing in science is not so much to obtain new facts as to discover new ways of thinking about them," according to Sir William Bragg.

The second area where people can enhance their creativity is peace or relaxation. When our minds are constantly filled with noise, thoughts, worries, tasks and complaints, etc., we easily become overloaded. Our mind contracts in order to protect itself, seeing fewer options and limiting us.

Peace and relaxation allow your mind to clear and rest, creating space. And in this space we find our creative mind – we hear our ideas because the competing thoughts and external noise has ceased. Why do you think going “on retreat” is so powerful? If you’ve ever had an idea while totally relaxed or perhaps last thing at night or first thing in the morning you’ll know what I mean.

Creativity can be helpful in all areas of your life, whether at work, dealing with family and friends, planning your finances or simply planning your week. I wonder, where in your life could you do with some creativity right now? What areas aren’t working as well as you’d like?

Try simply taking time out during your day or week (as little as five to 15 minutes!) to pause, relax and get curious. It may be enough to give you a boost – and help you make some creative changes in your life.

Emma-Louise Elsey is a Certified Life-Coach and NLP practitioner who helps people get unstuck, build confidence and find happiness. 604-990-9068 www.simplicitylifecoaching.com

Copyright North Shore Magazine Issue Apr - May 08