Few people can call themselves a genius, and even fewer can call themselves a creative genius. Being creative is often considered a talent, something that you are born with, rather than a skill that can be developed and cultivated. Even if you’re not inherently creative, you can unlock the creative juices in your brain with 21 simple strategies.
1. Pick the worst idea
Not only is it okay to take risks every now and then, it’s encouraged. Successful people don’t get where they are by playing it safe all the time.
2. Make small bets
In order to climb that massive mountain, you need to tackle those small hills first. Set small goals for yourself and work your way up.
3. Question everything
Don’t ever underestimate how much you don’t know. Question it, then test it to improve.
4. Be a copycat
Never steal, but be inspired by the classics.
5. Ask 3 people
There’s a reason why massive corporations use focus groups before launching new products. New perspectives bring new approaches. Just make sure you ask the right kind of people.
6. Think like a genius
Sounds obvious but, next time you encounter a problem, ask yourself WWGD.
7. Write it down
Keep track of where you’ve been so you know where to go. Take good notes.
8. Practice, practice
Repetition unlocks genius. Practice makes perfect!
9. Focus
Don’t try to be the source of everything and anything. Focus on one thing and master it, be the best at it.
10. Say maybe
It’s ok to be skeptical, but don’t be a negative nancy. Be open to potential new ideas and opportunities.
11. Daydream and doodle
Loosen up. Let yourself play and discover. You’ll be amazed at what your brain can come up with when it’s not so tightly wound. Which leads us to…
12. Unplug
Rest. Unplug all of your electronic devices and detox. Resting fosters new connections in your brain.
13. Phone a friend
New ventures need supportive networks, and who better to provide that than your friends?
14. Get moving
You’ve likely heard this a million times, but regular exercise benefits many parts of your body, mind and soul, not just your muscles. It doesn’t have to be a full workout every time, simply go for a walk when you’re in a jam.
15. Look outside your industry
You can often find a lot of similarities to your industry in other industries. Learn what others can teach.
16. Be silent
Silence is golden. You don’t always have to be acting on something. Sit and think. It works.
17. Forget perfect
You’re not going to do everything right, and you’re going to make a lot of mistakes on your road to success. Don’t judge yourself for failing, and don’t allow your failures to keep you from trying again.
18. Don’t wait
If you don’t do it, someone else will. Be deliberate, but decisive.
19. Imagine distance
Psychological distance boosts creativity.
20. Reset goals
What do you want? I mean really want? You’d be surprised how often your goals can change, so do regular self-evaluations to find out if your goals are still what you think they are.
21. Start over
This one can be the hardest. Many successful people have failed so badly that they’ve had to start over completely, many times. Being an entrepreneur is hard work, and most people can’t stomach it. Can you?
If you prefer a more visual approach to useful information, here is a beautiful infographic showing 21 ways to unlock your creative genius.
Source: Entrepreneur
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