While habits and routines are important and often offer us a sense of stability and comfort, they can sometimes inhibit creativity, especially when we start to feel bored or mentally dull. It’s easy to sink into a creative rut and the key to breaking out is to challenge yourself to try new things, meet new people, and step out of your comfort zone. This can give the brain a much-needed reset, which will likely provide a renewed sense of energy, commitment to yourself and recovery, and more creative thinking. Here are a few simple ways to expand your horizons and mind and up your creativity.
Read new things.
Whether it’s a book of poetry, a novel, or a newspaper, read something different that will challenge your typical reading habits. Reading is one of the best ways to exercise the mind and connect to ourselves. If you always read the international section of the paper, try reading the arts section today. Likewise, if you never read poetry, give it a shot.
Switch-up your mode of engagement.
Nowadays, we tend to do most of our reading, socializing, and working online. Try to switch it up and write in a journal, call a friend instead of texting, and pick up a good old fashioned book instead of scrolling the internet. Sometimes, a simple break from screen time can expand our minds.
Meditate.
Mediation is the ultimate mind-expanding, creativity-boosting tool and anyone can do it. Try to quiet the mind while sitting in a comfortable position, walking around your neighborhood, or even listening to a guided visualization on your phone. Clear your mental clutter and expand your consciousness.
Visit a new place.
A simple change of scenery can do wonders for creativity. Go on a vacation to somewhere you’ve always wanted to see or simply take a new route home from work. While you’re there, look around, be present, and immerse yourself in the newness.
Dance.
Dance it out! Let your body move however it wants to your favorite tunes. Unstructured movements can really boost our creative thinking and mood.
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