If your brainstorms aren’t yielding the innovative ideas you’d hoped for, try a different approach that involves coming up with questions about a problem, as opposed to solutions. Brainstorming has a bad reputation—it’s associated with half-baked plans that are either too safe or too ludicrous, and never go anywhere. Instead, try framestorming: asking questions to[…]
Science suggests that mind-wandering freely to more pleasant and playful thoughts may improve our mood and foster creativity. I’m a big believer in daydreaming now and then—especially when I’m out hiking. There’s something about being in nature that helps me let go of daily cares and allows my mind to wander where it will,[…]
When it comes to art, there’s no secret that it certainly has its share of misconceptions. Some people feel that in order to consider yourself a real artist, you have to create something such as a sculpture or painting, while others believe that you either are or are not born with talent. However, every one[…]
With the coronavirus pandemic everyone is living in an uncertain time. Art can be a great outlet in a scary time. There are many ways creating art can be a great stress relief. Whatever the reason you are creating art it can help ease your mind. Distraction If nothing else, creating art is a[…]
The need to draw may be hardwired into the human brain. When I worked for the Panama Canal Commission–the US agency that ran the Panama Canal before it was transferred back to Panama in the year 2000–I would often glance over at the general counsel’s legal pad and notice that the margins were filled[…]
According to cognitive psychologist Robert J. Sternberg, creativity can be broadly defined as “the process of producing something that is both original and worthwhile.” Creativity is all about finding new ways of solving problems and approaching situations. This isn’t a skill restricted to artists, musicians or writers; it is a useful skill for people from[…]
You can’t force creativity when you aren’t feeling it. But these psychological tactics can help inspire you when you need it most. Sometimes it seems that certain people are simply gifted with the knack for creativity. If you feel like you were not one of those lucky few who draws from a seemingly endless[…]
What is your instinctive approach to decision making? If you’re naturally optimistic, then chances are you don’t always consider potential downsides. Similarly, if you’re very cautious or have a risk-averse outlook, you might not focus on opportunities that could open up. Often, the best decisions come from changing the way that you think about[…]
A new study suggests that listening to happy music promotes more divergent thinking—a key element of creativity. In today’s world, creative thinking is needed more than ever. Not only do many businesses seek creative minds to fill their ranks, but the kinds of complex social problems we face could also use a good dose[…]
Being creative has many advantages for health and happiness. Fortunately, it’s also a trait that can be developed, and doing so can bring extra enjoyment to your life. Try these strategies and see what works best for you. According to cognitive psychologist Robert J. Sternberg, creativity can be broadly defined as “…the process of[…]