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Developing Creative Thinking

Some people are born to think creatively but that doesn’t mean you can’t be creative if you’re not a natural.

Edward de Bono wrote: Creative thinking is not a talent, it is a skill that can be learnt. It empowers people by adding strength to their natural abilities which improves teamwork, productivity and where appropriate profits.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

I learned to think creatively when I started running a business and it has stood me in good stead, but it’s a learned skill, not a natural one. So how do you foster and encourage creative thinking? Here are a few ideas.

  • Create something every day, even if it’s only for short period of time. It doesn’t matter what - articles, new ideas, ask different questions. Start with a blank piece of paper and write down whatever comes into your head for about 20 minutes. You’ll be surprised what emerges. I find doing this as early as possible gets the best results.
  • When you feel stuck take a short break (and move your body to blow some oxygen into your brain). Try standing up from your desk, walk outside or to the vending machine, get a cup of tea, talk to people and look at the scenery outside your workplace. Inspiration will strike you at the most unexpected places and moments, so be open to them.
  • Develop rituals that condition your brain for better creativity. For instance, your ritual might be reading in the morning, listening music, meditating for a few minutes or taking several deep breaths.
  • Get creative and inspiring people into your social circle and interact with them in a regular basis. Listening to fresh perspectives and seeing your issues in different angles may help you reconstruct your ideas.
  • Make a list with someone else – you’ll spark new ideas from each other’s thoughts.
  • Some people are more creative and productive at different times of the day. I think better and more freely first thing.
  • Build relationships with people who inspire you and interact with them on a regular basis. Linked with this, read books, watch films, get exposure to people who think creatively.

Get more ideas on creative thinking with Raphael DiLuzio.

We can all be creative and creativity is invaluable in the workplace. It is the key that opens doors to a whole new realm of opportunities. It helps us lead the life we want to lead.

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DISCLAIMER

Although every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained in this blog, nothing herein should be construed as giving advice and no responsibility will be taken for inaccuracies or errors.

Copyright © 2018 all rights reserved. You may copy or distribute this blog as long as this copyright notice and full information about contacting the author are attached. The author is Kate Russell of Russell HR Consulting Ltd.

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