In our ever-expanding technological-based world where we have more access to information than ever before, why is it that so many of us feel less and less creative?
I recently shared this article, and although it’s quite long and detailed, what stood out to me the most is that a huge proportion of what we see these days is dictated by some type of algorithm. Obvious right? But not something I had really thought about. Instagram, Pinterest, Facebook and even Google use our previous behaviour to determine what we are likely to want to see in the future. Whilst this is designed to give us an efficient user experience, what in effect does is continues to show us things we’ve already shown an interest in. Meaning that our worldview is continuously reinforced being and we’re not exposed to ideas/imagery/commentary that’s challenging. It’s been established that this is contributing to a widening divide between the left and the right. But why does this matter for creativity? Well for me, a genuine sense of creativity comes from being challenged, seeing/experiencing something new or having a new idea (hence why travel is an ideal way to boost your creativity). However, I’m getting the feeling that when I’m particularly plugged in, these moments are becoming rarer. If you feel the same, perhaps it’s time to challenge your creativity a little bit?In this post we’re going to share with you a few tips and tricks onĀ How to Challenge and Grow Your Creativity.
How to Challenge and Grow Your Creativity
Disconnect
You’re probably sick of me banging on about this, but one of the most simple ways to challenge yourself creatively is to step outside of the online world. As someone whose whole career revolves around the internet, this might sound a little bit counter-intuitive, but just because we love being online, it doesn’t mean we should be a slave to it. In fact, a little bit of time offline (whether that be in the evenings, day or a month) will stoke your creativity more than just about anything. Read more about digital downtime here.
Be More Aware
Train yourself to be more attentive to the things around you. It’s easy to be so absorbed in the online world or rushed and busy that we forget where true creative inspiration comes from… Around us. So start being more aware in everything you do, particularly when you are, say, commuting or travelling.
Consider (And Translate) Your Reactions
Once you’ve started noticing the things around you, start considering in more detail how you actually feel or react to the things that you are seeing. And take note of that reaction. True creativity comes when your brain works through these processes and gives you a tangible decision.
Have a Conversation
Sounds elementary, but you’ll be surprised how often these days we avoid it. With all of us head down staring at our devices, and slowly becoming more and more introverted, it’s easy to forget how stimulating it can be really talk to someone and take in what they are saying. If you’re someone who has started avoiding face to face meetings (this is more common than you think) perhaps it’s time to reverse that.
Try A New Medium
True, for a long time I have got a lot of inspiration from Pinterest. But what I am seeing now is the same thing over and over, and it makes me think we’re all seeing the same things. Ā To try to counteract that, I’ve started experimenting with other mediums, that have no algorithm at all… Clay, paint and lots of other mediums can help to nurture and challenge your creativity. And get your clothes thoroughly dirty too! Ā Recently learnt how to bake and it was such a creative experience!
Hoping you guys enjoyed these few ideas we had, all about how to challenge and grow your creativity. We’re looking forward to sharing more on this subject!
Love to read more? Check out 7 Steps to Getting Started and 6 Tips For Avoiding the Comparison Trap.
I love your summer look with the cute hat!
xx from Bavaria/Germany, Rena
http://www.dressedwithsoul.com
Thanks doll x
I think especially the tip about disconnecting can be very helpful! I often catch myself comparing myself to others on the internet, being distracted etc. etc. A time-out can be so rewarding!
https://www.makeandmess.com/
I couldn’t agree more!
These tips will definitely help me! Thanks for sharing. Xx
http://www.thoughtsinstyle.com/
So glad you liked it! x
YAY! I love this idea. The notion of CREATING for the purpose of creating and not for SHARING is pretty cool – not explicitly stated but I like the idea of making stuff with clay, much harder to photograph/share online somehow. I’ve also been keeping a sketchbook where I don’t share what’s in it publicly. It’s refreshing!
Thats so good to hear! I feel that its important to have your own personal collection of work to learn and grow from!
Hi! Do you mind sharing where we can find your bag in this post? Would love this for my bus ride. Thanks!
I absolutely love these tips because, YES, algorithms and AI is how we’re often exposed to “creativity” nowadays and sometimes we forget how to unplug from that. Thanks for writing this, it’s so needed. <3
Thank you! I’m so happy to hear that xx
100% agree! I was only getting frustrated with Pinterest just yesterday for filling my feed with the same stuff. Of course travel is my preferred method for inspiration gathering, but I try to work new experiences in wherever I can at home too – whether itās cooking a new recipe for dinner or changing up my walking route.
I know right! Inspiration can strike at anytime and its great that you are breaking away from your daily routines and trying new things! xx
As a fellow blogger, I couldn’t agree more. While I think the algorithms are trying to be user-friendly and improve your experience, I don’t like feeling as if I’m put in a box. The electronic downtime is a “must.” It’s so hard to do for me, but travel, spending uninterrupted face-time with people you love, and avoiding a screen for a few hours can be the perfect reset.
Maybe this is why camping has so many psychological benefits? It kind of forces most of those things…..
I completely agree! and yes! camping seems to be a great way to disconnect and become more tuned in to whats around!
You hit the nail on the head with Pinterest! Disconnecting is my favorite way to break to grain. I have to go out and live and let the inspiration come! =)
Totally! I’m so happy to hear that x
You’re so right about this, it’s all things we know deep down but I for one needed a reminder today. Having recently joined the local library I’ve actually been really enjoying reading a diverse range of books! A novel one week, a non-fic the next, with a memoir or biography thrown in for good mix šā¤
Thats soo good to hear! xx
Yes, reading is the one thing other than travel that tears me away from the internet and reminds me to engage with other ideas.
https://www.travellivebreathe.com
I love this. One of the things I’ve been trying to do with my newsletter community is encourage them to travel. Because I give them behind-the-scenes looks into my life as a nomad, I often hear, “I live vicariously through you.” No! Get off the internet and have adventures! That’s where the magic happens and it’s going to be different for each of us. I truly love what you do with your space on the internet. Yours is the only blog I read consistently.
https://www.travellivebreathe.com
Yes! I especially get inspired by random street art, beauty is everywhere!
So so so so true!
Engaging with people…face to face…keeps me interested in the outside world. But I am at home nearly all the time and I find it increasingly difficult to get out. The internet has replaced a lot of my interactions out there.
I am so lucky I have acres to roam on just bush, trees, birds, bush rock and memories. L still G š
This is a great post – I’ve wondered lately where have my passions gone? I used to blog, I used to create, I had a busy little Etsy shop…I do think its important to disconnect and to find inspiration in our everyday. Smart technology doesn’t feel so smart lately
I often drive to a particular nursery early Saturday morning, when they just open. Before the sun gets too hot. To revel in the beauty. & Feed my soul. Maybe pick up a plant to add to my garden. the owner has a spectacular eye. it’s like walking thru a painting. Or, the beach, 5 minutes away. Breathtaking.
Great post! Very good tips.
http://www.upyourvlog.com