We all get into a routine and think we have to do everything sitting at our desks in front of our computers. The problem with this is; it squashes creativity. It’s hard to have breakthrough ideas or creative insights when you’re in your routine. Your brain craves new experiences and challenges, plus who can come up with great ideas with new emails coming in every minute!

I’ve been reading some books and articles on the brain and creativity and a recurring theme it’s suggested to get out of your routine and try something new. By giving your brain something new to focus on gives it the space to allow solutions to come through. Have you ever had an “aha” moment while driving down the road that just comes out of nowhere? Your brain relaxed enough to allow a fresh idea or insight to bubble up through the subconscious.

Some ideas for getting out of your routine when you’re trying to have creative insight:

• Visit a museum over your lunch break
• Drive a route you’ve never driven before or go on a long, scenic drive
• Play a musical instrument
• Listen to classical music or some other music you don’t normally listen to
• Get a massage
• Spend some time writing, just jotting down things that come up as they come up (stream of consciousness)

Just taking an hour to do something like this away from your desk will give your subconscious mind the opportunity to allow some insights to bubble up to your conscious mind. I’ve been trying some of these tactics and I’ve found that I don’t necessarily have the insight while I’m doing the new activity, it comes an hour or so later but it’s definitely working!