5 Methods To Develop Creative Thinking Abilities

Have you ever wondered why some people seem to burst with creative ideas while others struggle with creativity? So often we hear people say, "I'm just not creative." The truth is, every one of us is creative by nature. It's just that some of us need to dig a bit deeper to draw out our creative talent.

At the same time, there are times when even the most innovative people can find themselves creatively challenged.

So what do you do when no ideas are flowing when you need them to? While there is no one way guaranteed to get creative ideas flowing, here are 5 easy ways to jump-start creativity.

* Keep a journal with you so you can take notes on the fly. Creative ideas can be triggered by anything you may hear, see, or smell. Your five senses have an amazing ability to revitalize memories and stimulate new thoughts. Jot down ideas as they come to you and keep your thoughts available for easy future reference. You may also occasionally read or hear something that may lead to a bigger idea. Jot down those thoughts as well. Creative ideas and innovative thoughts can come from unexpected places - it's the enhancement or refinement of the original idea that makes it truly unique.

* Relax and take time to absorb your thoughts. A clear and relaxed mind is best for stimulating creative ideas and developing them further. It's vital to rid our minds of unnecessary or stressful thoughts that often consume too much of our conscious thinking and block our creative abilities. Rather, the goal is to have a calm mental slate that stimulates creativity.

* Create a thinking space that helps establish an atmosphere for relaxation and creativity. This thinking place should make you feel calm and at peace so that creativity is unblocked and able to flow. For some, a sip of wine, certain types of music, or a specific scent in the air can make a difference in how easily creative ideas will flow. Creative ideas flow most naturally when you are relaxed. It is then that your mind is most open to new ideas.

* Do something out of the ordinary or even escape for a day-long mini-getaway. Go roller blading, hike a local mountain and take in the view, take a scenic drive, or do whatever appeals to you. By doing something totally outside of your typical routine, your mind opens itself to fresh ideas and creative ideas are more likely to flow.

* Use your time asleep productively and let your subconsious mind help you develop creative ideas. The mind continues to work subconsiously while we sleep. Take advantage. Before drifting off to sleep, focus upon the creative challenge you face. When you do fall asleep, your subconscious mind may produce potential solutions. If a creative idea comes to you in the middle of the night, be sure to have a pen and paper at bedside to write down your thoughts. You would be amazed at the number of great ideas that are suddenly lost forever come light of day.

While each person is unique, it's likely that at least one of these ideas will help stimulate your creative thinking abilities. Who knows - combining several ideas may stimulate a creative genius you never knew you possessed.