Sometimes it’s easier to put your thoughts on paper than to say them aloud. Sometimes it’ hard to express yourself through words. It happens doesn’t it? Our wishes and worries buried inside keep looking for a way to come out. And the best way out for your innermost feelings is through creativity. And creativity united with mindfulness is the prescription for your mental health.
Well, creativity is not only an expression but also a skill that helps you with problem solving and decision making. In the process of exploring your creative side you end up learning life skills as well.
What is creativity?
No, creativity is not limited to art and innovation. It is not restricted to painting and poetry. In simple words, creativity is our ability to generate ideas, solve problems, engage with people and entertain ourselves and others. And we all have it. Creativity is not something which is only meant for artists. Rather, creativity is for EVERYONE.
In his article “The cognitive neuroscience of creativity“, Arne Dietrich identifies four types of creativity based our brain activities:
Deliberate and logical
Deliberate and logical creativity comes from great amount of knowledge in a particular field. It requires lots of time and sustainable work in a discipline. For example, Thomas Alva Edison as we know the inventor of lightbulb was a deliberate and logical creator. He had a high degree of knowledge in his field and he ran experiments after experiments before he could invent the first light bulb.
Deliberate and emotional
People who are deliberate and emotionally creative are the ones who are very emotional and sensitive. So in any given situation they are very quick to figure out why are they feeling low. And they also understand the origin of their sad emotional state. This helps them to improve their situation and get the work done. They are highly motivated by their “a-ha” moments whenever they are able to get the solution out of nowhere.
Spontaneous and logical
Sometimes we spent hours cracking a problem but nothing comes out. But we get the solution while working on something else. Idea of gravity to Isaac Newton was such an example of spontaneous and logical creativity. While this kind of creativity does requires existing knowledge in the subject. But the idea is while we are taking our time off from the problem our subconscious mind is working on finding the solution. And the solution can come anytime; while walking in the park or taking shower.
Spontaneous and emotional
The most elusive creativity that cannot be designed is the spontaneous and emotional creativity. Profoundly possessed by artist, musicians, writers etc. this kind of creativity can not be obtained by working on it. And for most people they either “have or don’t have” it.
How creativity benefits your mental health
Gives you freedom
Creativity is an experience of joy. It gives you freedom from perfection and fear of failures. It’s a reminder that it’s okay to make mistakes, and more than the result it’s the process of enjoyment that matters the most. In your creative zone you are just yourself. There is no pressure of performance or compulsion of norms. It’s absolutely your moment with yourself.
Sense of pride
There is an accomplishment in creating something new or learning something new. Every moment when you overcome a hurdle is a moment of pride. Every great shot and every flawless stroke serves a purpose, which is to elevate your self-confidence. Further, they make you realise the importance of every tiny step that you take towards skillfulness.
State of euphoria
Engrossing yourself in something so much that you lose track of time, does it sounds familiar? Have your ever experienced that? In psychology it’s called state of flow. A state of mind in which a person is completely immersed in an activity attaining greater enjoyment. Also called as being in the zone, it’s a euphoric state where we are mindful and relaxed. That’s how creativity helps us to combat stress and stay happy.
Helps in socializing
Joining a hobby group helps us connecting with people who share similar interest. It’s a fantastic opportunity to bond with others and exchange ideas. When people join in together to create something, they learn a lot from each other. Working together as a team while working on something innovative is a great way to socialize. During the journey you share your struggles and at the end of the road you share the euphoria of success. And that’s how you bond with others.
Encourages problem solving
Whether it’s creating something new or doing the same thing but in a new way. Creativity helps you find new perspective and hence is very effective in problem solving. Many a times only thing needed to solve a problem is looking at it with a fresh mind. Creative minds think out of the box and can come up with unorthodox solutions. Rather than depending upon the old methods, they are confident in following a new practice.
Let’s enhance our creativity
Make time
Mark a slot in your calendar for your creative engagements. Leisure is as important as labour. Your time with yourself is no less valuable than your time for others. Depending on your other commitments, plan your schedule so that you do get some time to explore your creative side. Time place and assignment of your choice, but make sure to be consistent.
Be present
Mindfulness is the key element of creativity. So be present in the moment. Involve yourself completely in the task in hand. Creativity requires freedom. Because for any idea to emerge in your mind you need to have some space there. If your mind is already clogged with worries, it’s impossible for it be creative. Creativity cannot be multitasked. It’s sincerely one job at a time thing. You need to be completely aware of what is there in front of you. You have to have your full focus on your enjoyment.
Look back in your childhood
Wondering where to start? Look back in your childhood. That was the only time when we were free from worries, and our only focus was to have fun. That is why childhood hobbies must be taken seriously in adulthood. That’s our gateway to ecstasy.
See opportunities of learning
Is there anything that your current job demands? Is there anything that your health demands? Answer to such questions is your next step. Should you join a sports club or a hobby club, your current needs can help you decide. There are lots of skills that our work life demands for; for example public speaking. And that is a perfect excuse to enroll yourself in a storytelling workshop.
Be disciplined
It all starts with discipline. Irrespective of your domain, challenges, commitments, requirement, likes or interest. Discipline is common to all. Whether you want to learn something or excel in something you already know, discipline is the answer. Let’s remember creativity is honest, there are no shortcuts. Pastime requires the same discipline that your high pressure job demands.
Creativity is a wonderful opportunity to convert boredom into productivity. So instead of using distractions like smartphones to kill boredom, engage yourself in activities that are inspiring and challenging.
"Creativity is inventing, experimenting, growing, taking risks, breaking rules, making mistakes, and having fun." - Mary Lou Cook