The notion of creativity has a sense of magic and mystery about it. But this can make it seem distant and unattainable. From awe-inspiring works of art to innovative ideas that change the world, creativity seems like something that simply happens, if we’re very lucky.

In fact, we all have an inner creative side – we just need to tap into it.

We can’t snap our fingers and become more creative, but we can take small steps to get ourselves into a more creative state of mind – especially when it comes to our environment. When the conditions are right, we can find that creative pulse within ourselves by simply being present in the moment.

If we’re stressed and burned out, then we can’t get ourselves to a place of creativity. Instead, we have to step off the treadmill of constant connectivity and busyness, even for a little while.

When we make time to recharge – physically, mentally and spiritually – our world opens up. We become open to possibilities we didn’t see before. And we grant ourselves access to the parts of life – and parts of ourselves – where the best ideas can be found.

Here are six Microsteps to help you set the scene for creativity:

 

Microstep #1: Schedule time to go outside.

Just a few minutes in the day can make a big difference. Simply being outdoors and surrounded by nature not only improves your well-being, but inspires you to be a more creative, more present version of yourself.

 

Microstep #2: Make at least one meeting each day device-free.

You’ll be more focussed, engaged and creative without distractions from phones and computers.

 

Microstep #3: Before bed, escort your devices out of your bedroom.

Disconnecting from the digital world will help you sleep better, deeply recharge and reconnect to your wisdom and creativity.

 

Microstep #4: Take short pauses throughout the day.

After a period of intense focus, or when you’re feeling stuck, taking just a few minutes away from your desk and screens can help free you from the demands of your inbox and to-do list.

 

Microstep #5: Let yourself be bored.

Next time you’re waiting in line, stuck in traffic or delayed by someone who is late for a meeting, embrace the moment instead of immediately picking up your phone or tablet. Unstructured moments can lead to inspiration, creativity, reflection and connection.

 

Microstep #6: Read a work of fiction.

Add a short story or novel to your reading list. So much of our work requires us to seek cognitive closure – conclusions, takeaways, absolutes – but reading fiction boosts creativity by taking you down more open-ended paths.

 

 

Thrive Global Asia Pacific

An alliance between Thrive Global and Monash University with the mission to end the stress and burnout epidemic. The partnership brings an evidence-based approach to well-being and performance, and works with organisations to deliver programs that lift the performance, resilience, engagement and mental health of employees.

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Any personal information you provide via this website will be collected by Monash University and Thrive Global for the purposes of delivering the Thrive program to you and to send you marketing communications, if you choose to receive them.

To see how Monash handles your personal information please refer to our Data Protection and Privacy Procedure and Visitors and Enquirers Data Protection and Privacy Collection Statement or contact dataprotectionofficer@monash.edu
To see how Thrive Global handles your personal information please see thriveglobal.com/privacy/.