This blog is called CreativeBridge.com, so shouldn’t we discuss creativity from time to time? The answer is absolutely yes. 
In the coming week I’ll use Mondays to write about creativity. If you don’t consider yourself a creative, then Mondays are definitely a day you SHOULD be here as we are going to look at the theology of creativity as well as practical exercises to strengthen this part of our minds.
Creativity is not a spectator sport. I have heard many people say they are not creative. However, I strongly believe every person has a great capacity to be creative in some way and think outside “the box,” simply because we are created in God’s image. I challenge you to look at the next week and consider how you can be creative, or think outside the box. Start with asking yourself a couple of questions.
What is an area of my life I believe can be better? There are many ways to improve the quality and efficiency of our lives. It can be as simple as cleaning and arranging your desk so your work flow goes smoother. There could be a better way to organize receipts for your finances. A new exercise and diet routine. A new way to express your love for someone significant in your life.
What is an area of my life I want to use for good? Do you have a new neighbor? Someone in your life going through a difficult time? Thinking outside of the box may lead you to arranging for a conversation over coffee, or spontaneous visit that could be an encouragement to someone who needs it most. Months ago my friend Ashley lost her father, John, to cancer. He was a master encourager. Years ago there was a special needs child in his church also named John. The older John formed the “John Club” where several men bearing the name would take the younger John to lunch every month just to celebrate this young man. This was encouraging not only to a special needs child, but to every member and everyone who hears the story of that “exclusive club.”
When you answer these two questions you set the stage for creativity. The next step of the process is to look at your life in a different way. With a new perspective, the ideas will take shape. Here are two simple exercises with many more coming on future Mondays.
Take a different route to work/school – Look at the world around you from a new perspective. Habit causes us to see things in the same old ways. Sometimes creativity is overshadowed by routine. Break your routine and see different faces, colors, road signs, and much more. By looking at simple things in life differently, you awaken possibilities and creativity.
Make a list of 100 questions – Questions mean we are seeking a solution, i.e. ideas or concepts. By making a list of questions, you exercise curiosity and the inquisitive part of your brain that may have been asleep for a while. By forcing yourself to ask 100 questions, you can awaken curiosity and creativity.
- What are some other ways you can think out of the box?
- How do you exercise your mind or creativity?
- What’s a creative idea you’ve seen or developed?
