Everyday Creativity
Overview: Everyday Creativity – your inner innovator
Being creative is a powerful way to keep mentally fit. And it doesn’t have to be anything complicated or time consuming like picking up a paintbrush or writing poetry (not that those aren’t great activities to try). Little things like doodling in a notebook or finding a new walk route to work are effective too. The trick is to find something that is personal to you – so take the time to explore different creative activities.
The Why
Psychologists now know that engaging in a creative activity just once a day can lead to a more positive state of mind. This is because it requires us to be open to new ways of looking at things, to be adaptable, flexible and resourceful. Being creative also requires our attention and can relax and calm the mind, giving us a much-needed break from our busy lives and thoughts. Sometimes it can also help us express what we are trying to communicate or even help us identify a new skill.
Great for…
Exercise
Stop
Take a look at your everyday life and ask yourself if and when you’re being creative. Make a note if you think you are – what are you doing?
Challenge
Don’t allow yourself to think you’re not creative. We all have a creative side even if it hasn’t been ignited yet. You need to be open to the possibilities of your inner innovator.
Change
Start to consider options to engage with your creative side. Look at what other people do or search the internet for different short activities that you can try.
Make a list of creative opportunities. Changing up your exercise regime, trying new recipes or food, getting all your photos printed into an album, creating a short video from all the video footage on your phone, finding a new walk route to go on, reading a new type of book, picking up an instrument – they are all options worth considering and you’ll think of many more.
Start with just 15 minutes a day – although if you want to do more, that’s great.
