Introduction
Although some people seem to have an innate ability for creativity, others need to put in more effort to achieve the same level of success. However, everyone is creatively capable to some level.
If you are looking to spark some creative inspiration; having a relaxed and open mind, a willingness to take risks, and the ability to think beyond the box are just a few of the many factors that can help creativity thrive.
The Importance of Creativity
Creativity is essential because it helps us think of novel approaches to old issues, gives voice to our innermost thoughts and experiences, and inspires us to make something beautiful and useful. As humans, our capacity for creativity is essential to our survival and prosperity.
Harnessing Your Environment to Boost Creativity
Taking advantage of your surroundings might help spark new ideas in a few different ways. One approach is to cultivate an atmosphere that encourages original thought. This involves a spotless, clutter-free environment in which to work. Making the most of your surroundings is another option. This entails using tools to aid concentration and creativity, such as ambient light and music.
The Benefits of Boosting Your Creativity
Increasing one’s creative output can have positive effects such as enhanced problem-solving and communication skills, as well as greater efficiency. The ability to think outside the box and come up with novel solutions to problems is another hallmark of creative people.
How to Harness Your Environment to Boost Your Creativity
The default mode network (DMN), when left unchecked, can generate negative thoughts and negative routines. While we are still understanding all the aspects of the DMN, we do believe that insights are produced through the DMN’s communication with other brain networks.
One of the easiest ways to to activate the DMN into the routines of creativity is to simply change scenery.
Motivational power of Nature
It’s suggested that being submerged in water can help activate the default mode network. This restricts our ability to take in visual, auditory, and kinesthetic information but “unlocks a treasure trove of previously unavailable cognitive, emotional, psychological skills.”
Going for a swim isn’t the only method to use nature to gain insight. Being in natural environments like parks and woods can have a calming effect on the default mode network (DMN) and encourage innovative thinking. These environments don’t overwhelm the senses, so we might be able to observe our mental processes with greater clarity.
Motivational power of Urban Areas
It’s also possible that you’re the type of person that does very well in an urban environment.
MIT’s Wei Pan and his team of researchers found that cities with a high density of social ties had a higher average gross domestic product and more patents granted.
“These are the people who bring different ideas, bring different opportunities, and meetings with other great people that may help you.”
Motivational power of Novel Experiences
Some people are not easily inspired by a particular location but instead are more inspired by novel experiences.
The consistent exposure to new ideas and experiences international travel provides helps open the mind. Even immersing yourself in a different neighborhood or visiting a new museum can provide you with novel experiences and boost creativity.
Conclusion
How can you harness your environment to boost your creativity? Make sure you have a space that is dedicated to being creative. Fill it with things that inspire you and make you feel creative.
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Bring nature indoors. You can stimulate the default mode network by surrounding yourself with natural elements like plants, posters, and desktop backdrops, or by listening to nature noises.
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Inject some of the excitement and energy by bringing souvenirs from your trips into your office.
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Diversify your DMN’s routine with a global soundtrack, changing screensavers to different locations, or eating at different establishments every day. Make it exciting!
Finally, set some time aside each day to be creative. This will help you to get into a creative mindset.
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