An owner of a small business needs creativity, and we all know how elusive and unpredictable the creative flow can be. It seemingly comes and goes with little warning or reason, and that can be frustrating, especially when you could really use a fresh, creative idea right about now. 

However, studies have shown that there are actually some practical things you can do to spark creativity, and I would like to share a few with you today:

• Take A Walk. Get outside and enjoy the beauty and complexity of the natural world. Don’t let the current weather stop you – just dress accordingly and get out in it. Rain or snow may actually be beneficial to your thought processes, but it’s certainly healthy to get outdoors, nevertheless, and that can never hurt. 
• Step Out Of Your Bubble. Do something different than you normally do. Try new foods, tackle a book that you have been thinking about reading, sample a fresh genre of music. Taking a class or learning a new skill can be inspiring as well, and making new friends or business contacts might also be beneficial. 
• Lose The Distractions. Distraction Number One is your cell phone. It might be a good idea to spend a few hours every day or week without it pinging and ringing all the time. Create a space for yourself that allows you to be free from disturbance; we all spend a lot of energy thinking about unnecessary subjects and it can wear us down. 
• Change Your Self-View. You may not see yourself as a creative person, and this can definitely stop the flow of new ideas and concepts. You might be missing out on some really good stuff! Let yourself be a creative person – think back to solutions that you came up with or good things you made or built. Those were done by a creative person!
• Go Play! Get out and do some fun things with those you love and relax. This can help you recharge and get motivated, enhancing your general sense of well-being and healthiness. Remember that old saw – “All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy.” And a “dull boy” may have trouble coming up with creative ideas!

I am committed to Nashville-area small business owners, and I love to help them find their passion and purpose. Are you in need of some creative ideas or some solutions to business challenges? I’m here to help!