On Mindfulness and Creativity
20:55
When CEOs are asked when they think of their best ideas a
common response is in the shower. This appears surprising at first. Surely,
sticky notes and drawing boards and the best ways to brainstorm and come up
with creative solutions? But the fact is that the best solutions are usually
found when we’re not thinking about our problem at all.
Why is that?
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| Let it go. Let it out. by Michael Leunig Image credit:https://itscrowtime.files.wordpress.com/ 2012/01/letitgobyleunig.jpg |
On a daily basis adult life is showered by a firehose of
demands. After a while work and life seem to blend into one and it can
be difficult to find clarity. Whilst helping individuals become more self-aware
and lowering stress levels, mindfulness can also be used to enhance creativity.
Filtering out the white noise of your mind helps make room for new and innovative
thoughts and solutions.
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| Image credit: https://sherimuse.files.wordpress.com/2013/06/ 399350_10151168923421693_1502181540_n.jpg |
Mindfulness is helpful in every aspect of life. This also
applies to creativity. The value of mindfulness is increasingly being
recognised by corporates who encourage their employees to take up the practice.
Google even ‘has an in house mindfulness program called'Search inside Yourself' and has built a labyrinth for mindful walkingmeditations’.
Meditation however is a skill that takes a lifetime(s) to
master. There are always new classes, apps or videos looking to help people
master the art. Recently, adult colouring books have shot to popularity. They’ve
even made it to Amazon’s current best seller list. Is
this just a craze or something more meaningful?
Filling in intricate templates can be surprisingly soothing.
Adults are increasingly taking time out of their busy day to enjoy the
creativity and freedom to enjoy a bit of colouring. It’s so easy to get caught
up with the ins and outs of daily life that colouring could be one way of
making time for self-reflection.
For busy entrepreneurs it may seem difficult to schedule yet
another thing into an already busy day. Mindfulness however is something that
can be practised every moment of our waking life. Walking, breathing and now
colouring can be used to tune out white noise and better connect with yourself.
Steve Jobs on mindfulness:
“Your mind just slows down,
and you see
a tremendous expanse in the moment. You
see so much more than you
could see before.”
I’d like to hear your
thoughts on embracing creativity.
Comment down below.
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