How to develop creativity?

Question

What factors do you think contribute to the development of creativity? Perhaps it is the environment we are in, or specific practices and exercises?

It is also interesting to discuss what barriers may hinder creative thinking. For example, how can the fear of failure or pressure from others affect our ability to be creative?

Ben Syverson · Accepted Answer

I have two thought technologies for you: the first is that there are not "creative people" and uncreative people. Check out the book "Creative Confidence" by Tom & David Kelley from IDEO. It will help anyone who has ever thought "I'm just not creative." Creativity is a mindset that anyone can tap into.

The second is that creativity can be turned and off like a faucet. It's the opposite of what we've been taught! Having gone to art school and spent 10 years at IDEO, I've observed a lot of artists and designers—and trust me, they do not wait around for inspiration to strike. Look up Julian Shapiro's blog post "Creativity Faucet." The core metaphor is that your output is like a faucet that hasn't been used in a while—the pipes are full of rusty brown water, so you just need to let it out until it runs clear. (Morning Pages are a similar concept.)

Some random tactical tips: if you're generating ideas, it's easier if you can find 2-3 other people. IDEO's 7 Rules of Brainstorming really help (especially Go for Quantity). Figure out what mode you're in: creating choices (divergence), or making choices (convergence)—both are creative. And of course, any time you're stuck, go talk to a few customers and get their feedback. It will always give you an idea!

Tasha Konkina · Answer

You’ve got to train your mind to balance between focus and relaxation, as creativity lies right in between. Meditation helps (and certain kinds of shrooms lol)

Business Marketing with Nika · Answer

It helped me a lot to attend places where the art is.

Not reading only books about creative technique but reading novels, fiction literature and such usual things like "drawing, dancing, photography, ceramics" etc.

ayisha · Answer

@tashakosmos Absolutely! Finding that balance between focus and relaxation is essential for unlocking creativity. Meditation is a great tool for this, as it helps clear the mind and tap into deeper, more intuitive thinking. Similarly, embracing [Pink Trends](http://pinksconcretedesignct.com/) in your environment—whether in design, fashion, or branding—can evoke a calming, yet stimulating atmosphere that fosters creative flow. Just as the color pink has been shown to have a soothing effect, integrating it into your workspace or creative process can subtly enhance focus while encouraging relaxation.

Harald Frank · Answer

Walking outside in nature or the city and just mindfully taking notice of the small things in our world always inspires my creativity.

Simon Peter Damian · Answer

In my experience, there are people who are just naturally creative. They've just got it. However, a more practical approach is to have an experimental mindset, kick out doubt and just test things as quickly as possible. For a creative mind, there are no wrong or right just a series of experiments. The idea may sound crazy, unorthodox, unconventional but that's what being creative is.

Answer

I think creativity is about the sources you’re regularly exposed to—like the media you consume, the creators you follow, the books you read, and the places you visit. It’s also about the people you connect with and the products you interact with, which all play a part in shaping and evolving your ideas.

Being open to new experiences and staying curious keeps things fresh. On the flip side, it’s easy to feel blocked when there’s pressure to do things a certain way or worry about messing up. Giving yourself room to explore without judgment can make all the difference.

Ovin Dias · Answer

Interesting

Irawan · Answer

Developing creativity is a combination of nurturing curiosity, challenging your mind, and exposing yourself to diverse experiences. Some proven ways to enhance creativity are expose yourself to new experiences, collaborate with others, learn and master your field, experiment and take risks.

How to develop creativity?

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