“Every child is an artist, the problem is staying an artist when you grow up.”— Pablo Picasso
When you watch a child approaching a creative project it’s a great reminder of how NOT to overthink something. As adults, professionals, people with responsibility, it is so easy to meticulously plan, over think and get very stuck in the process. Below, I’m going to share 3 seemingly simple things that you can do at least once a day to inspire creative thinking. Why do I say “seemingly simple?” Because, the majority of adults have a list of why they can’t. There really aren’t any good excuses. There are just excuses. I know. I’ve often made those excuses. “I don’t have the time” is the number one excuse. “I’m not creative” is another common excuse people share with me.
I believe that Creativity is a Birthright. I say it, I practice it, I teach it and I believe it.
And here’s the thing, creativity and creative play increases productivity at work, stimulates your mind, reduces stress, deepens self-awareness, increases problem-solving skills and brings greater joy. All good reasons to justify the time you take for a little creative play.
3 Simple Ways To Act More Like A Child And Spark Your Creativity!
1. Play. Really play. From playing a game like Twister to inviting friends over for a home facial party with temporary tattoos and candy apples to taking out paint and painting with your fingers. Besides the fun factor, you will de-stress and feel connected to others which will absolutely re-energize you when you go back to the more serious business of life.
“We don’t stop playing because we grow old; we grow old because we stop playing.” -George Bernard Shaw
2. Get outside! When asked about a happy memory as a child, everyone, and I mean everyone, in the Creative Playpenn workshops I lead mentioned being with Nature! Walking, going to the beach, riding your bicycle, gardening… literally, stopping to smell the flowers can clear your mind and benefit your mental and physical health.
“Study nature, love nature, stay close to nature. It will never fail you.”- Frank Lloyd Wright
