Getting creative

It’s amazing to think that corporate bigwigs seem to believe that getaways are always needed for brainstorming sessions, as though a predefined week in the future will inevitably lead to creativity.

Now, I’m not against having getaway sessions, but honestly, do you think that the brain functions only at a specified time? And that only at a specified time does it magically come alive with the creative juices locked up within?

Actually, I find that the most creative time is when the mind is at rest. This doesn’t necessarily mean that it will only come at a calm moment. For me I find the best period to harvest creativity is when I’m driving to work or well, just about anytime that I’m not “Doing anything constructive”.

Yes, I’ve had countless missed turnings and blank looks throughout each day. See, it is possible to be at your creative peak even on a daily basis, if only you understood how your brain and body functions. If you’re having a meal, your body will be too busy digesting food that hey, you’re not likely to think of much besides eating.

And when you’re stressed up, no amount of caffeine is going to help. Your body and mind would have shifted into defense mode, meaning, you’re not going to churn out brilliant ideas regardless.

In addition to that, unless you have a very well-trained strong mind to focus on a particular subject for a prolonged period of time, it is highly unlikely that hours of labouring at a creative matter is going to bring fruitful results. Yes, to be able to hold your focus longer, you need to train yourself for it.

So, how does anyone get creative then? Well, start with the restful moments. No, not the ones where you’re about to doze off, but look for those moments that you can go on “auto pilot”, you know, activities like when you’re driving, exercising and such. These are the best times as your body can function on its own without much effort but it supplies enough oxygen to get those creative juices flowing.

And oh, one more thing. Make sure you have a notebook and pen handy (like in your shirt pocket) to write down the thoughts and ideas that you develop.