4 Ways to Boost Your Creativity

Creativity is an essential part of our daily lives. So many of us use it actively in our careers, whether you’re a business owner, an artist, or even a writer. However, we also use and rely on those creative juices even when we don’t work in the most creative of fields. We depend on creativity when testing out a new recipe in the kitchen, performing our favorite hobbies, partaking in work meetings, and even when playing with children.

No matter when or how you’re being creative, one of the most frustrating things is when we feel our creativity has been depleted. These feelings can arise when we feel energetically drained, overwhelmed or stressed out by too many things going on, or even when things have started to feel rather mundane. The good news is though, when you feel like those creative juices have dried up, they aren’t gone forever. You can absolutely get them back, but you just need to know how!

To help you out, we’re sharing four ways to boost your creativity. These things are all very simple to do and can easily be incorporated into our daily lives. Go ahead and try them out when you need a creative refresh and even use them every day to stay at the top of your creative game! 

1. Listen to some tunes.

As it turns out, your favorite playlist does more than just help you get through a horrible break-up. It can actually boost your creativity as well. In fact, a great jam session can stimulate the part of your brain that controls your motor actions, emotions, and of course, your creativity. What’s even better about this news is that it doesn’t pertain to only one type of music. You can choose your favorite genre and start rocking out in the comfort of your own home.

So, the next time you’re struggling creatively, listen to some tunes! Create a playlist of some of your favorite songs and turn it on to lift your spirits. You can totally play it while dancing around in your room because no one has to know! Before you know it, you’ll be feeling ready to get back to your to-do list and those creative juices will be flowing.

2. Ditch the computer screen for pen and paper.

These days, it’s no secret that all of us are glued to our devices. We spend our days staring at our computer screens and punching out text messages on our smartphones. We’re kind of addicted. And you know what? This may actually be depleting you of your creativity.

The next time you have a brainstorming session or you’re writing the next chapter of your novel, try handwriting instead. The feeling of the pen and a fresh notebook in your hands can be a great way to boost your creativity. Sometimes it’s that simple change that can spark something in you to spark new ideas. Just give it a try and see how it works for you! And if you’re the kind of person that has to have digital files of everything, you can always transfer those notes over later.

3. Snack on brain foods for a pick-me-up.

Feeling like you’ve hit a plateau when it comes to creativity? Food may help you snap out of it! There are plenty of foods you can eat that can help boost your creativity by improving brain function and providing you with plenty of energy for the day ahead. One thing that’s key here is to stay away from processed foods. Processed foods are typically laden with chemicals, which do nothing for our bodies. If you’re struggling with creativity, ditch the processed foods right away!

Instead, you should incorporate healthier foods into your daily life. You can eat things such as: cruciferous greens (like broccoli, Brussels sprouts, and spinach), fresh fruit and vegetables, cold water fish (like salmon and mackerel), beans and lentils, nuts and seeds. Keep these items on-hand for an afternoon snack that will boost your brain power in no time at all. Now, that doesn’t mean you should completely eliminate those unhealthy treats from your life (such as those delicious cookies we all love). You can still treat yourself to a little something, but just don’t overdo it.

You can also get a brain boost by keeping your body hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day. Keep a water bottle on your desk while you work as a constant reminder to take a drink. When your body gets dehydrated, you become low on energy and it may even cause you to start craving unhealthy things like sweets and salty snacks.

One final option is to choose supplements that can also help boost productivity. There are plenty of supplements on the market today that can boost cognitive performance and enhance your focus. These types of supplements have actually started to gain a lot of popularity lately and are nicknamed “nootropics“. If you’re looking to pick some up to try, Lumonol is one that is well-reviewed and has natural ingredients, making it a great option.

4. Leave the office and spend some time outside.

Because so many of us spend our days cooped up inside and sitting at desks, it’s no wonder we often find ourselves creatively drained. Day in and day out, we sit at the same desk, surrounded by the same people, and often doing the same tasks. It quickly becomes mundane and can really dry up those creative juices. Experiencing a change of scenery is a great way to once again boost your creativity.

Try getting outside during your lunch break in the middle of a work day to get some fresh air and soak up the vitamin D the sun provides. (Just don’t forget to slather on a bit of SPF first!) Taking in the greenery around you is a great way to energize your body and stimulate your imagination. When you return to your to-do list, you’ll surely feel refreshed and ready to go.

So, the next time you need to boost your creativity, just get outside! Take your break outside, go for a walk, or even move your office outside for the day. Whatever you have to do! You’ll love the improvements you notice from being out in the fresh air.