How to Boost Your Creativity

According to cognitive psychologist Robert J.
Sternberg, creativity can be broadly defined as
"...the process of producing something that is both
original and worthwhile." Creativity is all about
finding new ways of solving problems and
approaching situations. This isn't a skill restricted to
artists, musicians or writers; it is a useful skill for
people from all walks of life. If you've ever wanted to
boost your creativity, these tips can help.

1. Commit Yourself to Developing Your
Creativity

The first step is to fully devote yourself to developing
your creative abilities. Do not put off your efforts. Set
goals, enlist the help of others and put time aside
each day to develop your skills.

2. Become an Expert

One of the best ways to develop creativity is to
become an expert in that area. By having a rich
understanding of the topic, you will be better able to
think of novel or innovative solutions to problems.

3. Reward Your Curiosity
One common
roadblock to
developing
creativity is the
sense that curiosity
is an indulgence.
Rather than
reprimanding
yourself, reward
yourself when you are curious about something.
Give yourself the opportunity to explore new topics.

4. Realize that Creativity is Sometimes Its Own
Reward

While rewarding yourself is important, it is also
important to develop intrinsic motivation. Sometimes,
the true reward of creativity is the process itself, not
the product.

5. Be Willing to Take Risks
When it comes to
building your
creative skills, you
need to be willing to
take risks in order
to advance your
abilities. While your
efforts may not lead
to success every
time, you will still be boosting your creative talents
and building skills that will serve you well in the
future.

6. Build Your Confidence
Insecurity in your abilities can suppress creativity,
which is why it is important to build confidence.
Make note of the progress you have made,
commend your efforts and always be on the lookout
for ways to reward your creativity.

7. Make Time for Creativity
You won't be able to
develop your
creative talents if
you don't make
time for them.
Schedule some
time each week to
concentrate on
some type of creative project.

8. Overcome Negative Attitudes that Block
Creativity
According to a 2006 study published in the
Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences ,
positive moods can increase your ability to think
creatively. According to Dr. Adam Anderson, senior
author of the study, "If you are doing something that
requires you be creative or be in a think tank, you
want to be in a place with good mood." Focus on
eliminating negative thoughts or self-criticisms that
may impair your ability to develop strong creative
skills.

9. Fight Your Fear of Failure
The fear that you might make a mistake or fail in
your efforts can paralyze your progress. Whenever
you find yourself harboring such feelings, remind
yourself that mistakes are simply part of the
process. While you may occasionally stumble on
your path to creativity, you will eventually reach your
goals.

10. Brainstorm to Inspire New Ideas
Brainstorming is a common technique in both
academic and professional settings, but it can also
be a powerful tool for developing your creativity.
Start by suspending your judgment and self-
criticism, then start writing down related ideas and
possible solutions. The goal is to generate as many
ideas as possible in a relatively short span of time.
Next, focus on clarifying and refining your ideas in
order to arrive at the best possible choice.