My most creative thoughts come to me when I am in random places. Walks are great for clearing the head and going through the day, solving all the day’s problems. But just as I nod off to sleep, some of my best ideas come to mind. 2 am is not the most ideal time to go through my thoughts and ideas, but I know I am not the only one!
The definition of creativity is the use of imagination or original ideas to create something. Creativity is a product of inspiration. It's very hard to be creative on demand. It tends to strike when the iron is hot, but at times being creative can be restrictive. So how can you schedule creativity when you are only free after lunch on Thursday’s?
Missing out on these lightbulb moments can be avoided by putting elements in place.
If you tend to get ideas at night when in bed, keep a notebook beside your bed. Jotting down the idea can ensure you ‘brain dump’ and get back to the land of nod without disrupting your sleepy eyes with blue light from your phone.
An idea springs to mind when out and about? Using an app for taking notes and collectively grouping your thoughts is ideal. Making use of the microphone on your phone for voice dictation is useful, making it quicker and easier to get your thoughts down before forgotten.
Many people think multitasking is the best way to get work done but focusing your attention on the task at hand will increase your productivity. If something pops into your head, have a notebook nearby to pop pen to paper, and then get straight back to it.
Scheduling time in your diary each day to go back to these thoughts and ideas can be beneficial and means you can develop these ideas further when you aren’t distracted. It is vitally important that you have your own system in place to keep your task list up to date.
The hybrid work model has pushed us digital. It has been wonderful in many ways. But its stunted creativity and spontaneous plans. The pandemic removed the casual walk to problem solve while grabbing a coffee. Or that ‘off the cuff’ chat when you nabbed a colleague. While management would welcome independent learning, great things can come from tapping your work friend on the shoulder and asking for a dig out.
As the saying goes "a problem shared is a problem halved."
Will the hybrid work model stifle spontaneity and slow down creativity?
Spontaneity can be defined as a way of behaving in which you do what feels natural and good. Doing something whenever you want to, rather than planning things first. Does spontaneity have a place in work? Most definitely, but knowing your boundaries is key. Creating small moves can bring great change to the day.
For example, are your 1:1’s always in a meeting room? Why not go for a walk instead? You can iron out any problems you both may be experiencing while also forming a more personal connection. Or why not go see an impromptu comedy gig performance with the team after work?
Spontaneity can leave you feeling more productive. Below are some ideas on how you can get the juices flowing.
Develop ideas by spider maps. It creates more flexibility to expand on a thought without feeling constrained by the logical ordered list format.
Add some time to the team’s diary to ensure collaboration whether that be virtually or in person. Open-ended, problem-solving workshops in groups collabs can develop more ideas.
Ask yourself some simple questions. Starting with Who, What When Where and Why is a way to look at different angles on your ideas.
The bottom line, I believe the hybrid work-life will bring with it many perks. We will become more organised, which will increase our productivity. Knowing your boundaries within your day will guarantee a creative and spontaneous balance!