Have you ever struggled to get creative ideas flowing? For instance, daily tasks or practices become monotonous and leave you feeling bored? Your innovative spark isn't clicking and you can't seem to make things fresh and exciting? There are some people who just lack the creative gene and always feel that way, but for most of us there has been a time in our life when we were incomplete in our creativity. I believe coaching is a profession that requires us to be creative in order to keep the process fun and effective for our players. I've been thinking about how I can improve in this area, so here are 8 ideas to inspire that creativity inside of you.
1. DO SOMETHING NEW
Sitting at your desk behind a computer screen gets very old after a while. Decide for yourself to go for a walk, talk to someone in a different department, take a weekend trip to the mountains for a scenic view, or simply do something out of the ordinary.
2. LISTEN TO MUSIC
Music is one of the most creative arts on this planet. All of us have our favorite genres, but it's good to get outside of our box every once in a while. You never know what sounds will give you the much needed inspiration that you've been looking for.
3. SURROUND YOURSELF WITH CREATIVE PEOPLE
When you're around creative people, you in turn become creative. There is a mindset within creative people that doesn't want to settle for the status quo. They desire to make things better and more effective. If you want to stay creative, surround yourself with others who are like minded.
4. TAKE RISKS AND DON'T BE AFRAID TO MAKE A MISTAKE
So many people are afraid to put themselves and their ideas out there. Some of the most creative and innovative people in history were also some of the best at failing. Take risks and be willing to make mistakes, but make mistakes with the understanding that they are going to make you better.
5. CLEAN & REARRANGE YOUR SPACE
Every Friday I straighten up my desk and organize my office space. At home, my wife likes to rearrange furniture and shake things up a bit! Anytime a space has been rearranged and cleaned I always feel fresh and inspired. I've found that my creativity flows in spaces where I feel comfortable.
6. BE YOURSELF
It's easy to fall into the trap of trying to be like someone else or wanting to be the person that everyone else wants you to be. Be yourself! You were made with unique characteristics that only you can bring to the table. Own that! Chances are that other people will be inspired by you if you just be yourself.
7. LET IT COME TO YOU
Don't force creativity. If an idea doesn't work, asses it and determine if it's worth tweaking or if you just need to move on. Oftentimes creativity will come to you when you least expect it in the most random place. Make sure to have a piece of paper or your phone to write it down before you forget!
8. HAVE FUN
Be willing to laugh at yourself. No idea is too crazy and even the most far fetched idea should be put on the table. You never know where your craziness will take your creativity!