5 Myths About Human Creativity

 Sometimes we tell ourselves that we're "not creative." So often, people think that creativity is reserved for craftspeople, inventors, and the like. That's an poor belief. 

Here are 5 myths that I hope people will stop believing about creativity. 

1.     Creativity is a talent that you are born with: This is a common misconception, but creativity is not a talent that you are born with. It is a skill that can be developed and nurtured through practice and dedication. Everyone has the ability to be creative, it just takes effort to tap into it.

2.     Creativity is only for artists and writers: Creativity is not limited to artists and writers. It is a vital skill that is needed in all fields, from business to science to engineering. Creative thinking can help to solve problems, generate new ideas, and improve processes.

3.     Creativity is only for the young: The idea that creativity is only for the young is a myth. Creativity is not limited by age and can be found in people of all ages. As we get older, we accumulate more knowledge, experiences, and wisdom, which can make us more creative.

4.     Creativity is a solitary activity: While some people may prefer to work alone, creativity is not a solitary activity. Collaboration and teamwork can often lead to new and exciting ideas. Sharing ideas and perspectives with others can help to generate new and unique ideas.

5.     Creativity is not important: Creativity is essential in today's world. It's essential for innovation, progress, and problem-solving. Without creativity, we would be stuck in the status quo, unable to come up with new solutions to old problems. Creativity is what drives us forward and helps us to make the world a better place.

To sum up these 5 points, myths about human creativity can limit our potential and hold us back from developing and expressing our creative abilities. It's important to recognize these myths and to work on cultivating our creativity. We all have the ability to be creative, it just takes effort and the willingness to try new things.

7 Steps for "Out of the Box" Thinking

Sometimes we can get into a writing rut, often without realizing it. Here are 7 steps that you can take to keep your writing fresh and keep your mind creative. 

1. Change your environment: Sometimes, a change of scenery can do wonders for your writing. Try moving to a different room, or even a different location altogether. The new surroundings can inspire new ideas and help you think outside of the box.

2. Read something new: Reading outside of your comfort zone can be a great way to broaden your perspective and come up with new ideas. Try reading a book or a magazine in a genre you wouldn't normally read.

3. Try a new hobby: Trying something new can be a great way to inspire new ideas and think outside of the box. Whether it's painting, photography, or playing an instrument, a new hobby can help you to think creatively.

4. Take a break: Sometimes, taking a break from writing can help you to come up with new ideas. Take a walk, go for a run, or simply sit and relax. The break will give your mind time to wander and come up with new ideas.

5. Listen to music: Listening to music can be a great way to inspire new ideas and think creatively. Put on some music and let it take you to a different place.

6. Collaborate with others: Collaborating with other writers or artists can be a great way to come up with new ideas and think outside of the box. Share your ideas with others and see what they come up with.

7. Write in a different format: If you're feeling stuck, try writing in a different format. Instead of writing a short story, try writing a poem or a script. Changing the format can help you to think outside of the box and come up with new ideas.

In conclusion, thinking outside of the box takes a bit of effort and creativity, but it's worth it. The ideas you come up with can be unique and exciting. Give yourself the time and freedom to explore different avenues and see where it takes you. Remember, the key is to be open-minded and to be willing to try new things.

21 Ways to Be and Stay Creative

If you're like me, sometimes you find that it can be difficult to must the energy or desire to be creative. Live events, health challenges, family issues, work drama, or just plain old fatigue can prevent us from being our fully creative selves. 

Here's a list of activities that you can do to help you stay motivated creatively and to get right back on the horse if you step off or take a hiatus. 

21 Ways to Be and Stay Creative 

Nurture Your Creative Self

 

As a creative writer, it is essential to nurture your muse. Your muse is that inner voice that guides your writing, and it is essential to listen to it. Without your muse, your writing can become stagnant, and you may find yourself struggling to come up with new ideas. Nurturing your muse is not always easy, but it is essential to the creative process.

One way to nurture your muse is to set aside time each day to write. Even if it is just a few minutes, make sure to make it a priority. This can be a great way to clear your mind and focus on your writing. You can also try setting aside time to read, whether it is a book or a magazine, reading can be a great way to inspire new ideas and keep your muse alive.

Another way to nurture your muse is to get out of your comfort zone. Take a walk, try a new hobby, or travel to a new place. These experiences can help to open your mind and inspire new ideas for your writing. You can also try to surround yourself with other creative people, whether it is a writing group or a community of artists. The energy and inspiration of others can be contagious and can help to keep your muse alive.

Lastly, don't be afraid to take a break. Sometimes, our muses need a rest, and it's important to give them that time to recharge. It's essential to take a step back and relax, so your muse can come back to you with new and fresh ideas.

In conclusion, nurturing your muse is essential for the creative process, and it's important to take the time to listen to it, set aside time to write, try new things, surround yourself with inspiration, and to take a break when needed. Remember, your muse is a valuable part of your creative process, and it's essential to keep it alive and well.

Photo by Rod Long on Unsplash

The Power of Feeling Like You're Enough

 When it comes to claiming the title of writer or artist, I've met so many people who write and create art, yet shy away from these titles. 

"I'm not real writer."

"I'm not really an artist." 

 . . . they say. 

Let me be clear. I'm not speaking of people who are rejecting these titles on principle, resisting being categorized into a box, or have other ways of describing themselves. I'm speaking of those writers and artists who are not confident in describing themselves in this manner. 

If you feel a bit of discomfort with these kinds of titles, the link to the poscast below will either confirm or affirm your position. And, it's quite possible that it may change your mind or evolve your thinking regarding being a creative person. 

 

What's a Muse Anyway?

A muse is a source of inspiration for creative writers. It can be a person, a place, an object, or even an idea that ignites the imagination and drives the creative process. The concept of the muse has been around for centuries, with many famous writers, poets, and artists crediting their muses for their success. The muse can be a guiding force that helps writers to tap into their inner creativity and bring their ideas to life. It can be a reminder to stay true to the creative process and to never give up on your dreams. So, the next time you are feeling uninspired, take a moment to think about your muse and let it guide you on your writing journey.

Gifts for Writers

 As the holidays approach, consider purchasing a unique gift especially for writers for that special writer in your life. And while you're at it, get yourself something as well. 

Gifts for Writers