Creativity is important when starting up a small business. It brings your business to the next level. Creativity is a major component of my woodcarving business. I want to create something that my competitors don’t have. How can I ‘out create’ them?
My creativity zone begins by temporarily removing the customer factor. I know, that sounds dangerous. We want to keep the customer in mind when we develop a new product or service. This is only in the initial creation process. Redesigning to fit customer needs comes next.
To create, find a quiet place with no interruptions. In some homes or businesses this may seem next to impossible. Find a place close to quiet. How about your car? Sit quietly for a minute or two. Take a deep breath and know that your space is yours – therefore, your mind is yours.
Speaking of cars, I do much of my creative thinking while I drive. Many people have told me that happens for them also. I wonder why. Maybe because driving is a mindless task. While driving, the scenery changes. Therefore, the mind must change, therefore strings of thoughts change.
Another creative process is not to think about anything specific. This leaves my mind open for ideas to occur without force. Why does this happen? I know it has a lot to do with the subconscious. But I don’t want to get technical about the subconscious mind. There are many books that will explain the subconscious and how that connects to creativity. For now, trust the subconscious to give you a creative answer.
Creativity can be achieved by outrageous thinking. Think unconventionally. You may come up with a new product or to reinvent an old product as new. Brainstorming can help. Thoughts that come to your head when you think outrageously may give a possible solution for a new product.
Don’t be afraid to think creatively. You don’t have to answer to anyone. And when it is time to bring your ideas to others, listen to their feedback. If the response is negative, ask why. Maybe, those who give you feedback can be a source of your creative process.
The Wonderful World of Creativity Checklist
1) Find a quiet place where you will not be disturbed.
2) Let go of old thoughts – let go to what is expected of you by others
3) Brainstorm ideas and jot them down no matter how outrageous they seem – one thought may be the answer.
4) Think of the feasibility of your creation – how does this fit your corporate mission? How will your customers react?
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