How many times have you heard people say: “I am not creative at all “. Is it possible that you could have said such an unthinkable thing about yourself? What you believe about yourself will predict how you perform. It really isn’t true that some people aren’t creative. What is true is that in some individuals creativity is a mindset. Research shows that everyone has creative abilities. Have you ever watched a baby play with pots and pans and other odds and ends? It’s amazing what those little minds will dream up and create with items that don’t resemble a toy. On the other hand, if you believe that you’re not analytical or technical it will hold true that you probably won’t be. Once again, your mindset will get in the way. I’m sure you’re asking; “how do I get over this kind of thinking that sets up roadblocks and stops me in my tracks every time”?

Has this ever happened to you? You wake up in the middle of the night, you are totally relaxed, and all of a sudden your mind is filled with an idea. In fact, it’s a great idea. Perhaps it’s a solution to some kind of problem or a new way to approach a project you have been thinking about during the day. That’s creativity! Do you turn over and go back to sleep? If you do, you risk that wonderful subconscious creativity being stepped on by your conscious mindset in the morning. There may be a little voice you hear  in the morning that will tell you, ” You don’t quite remember the idea or  maybe it was not such a good idea”. Don’t let this happen to you. Keep a pad and pen by your bed. Write down any idea that pops into your mind when your creative spirit is free. Push your mind muscles and constantly exercise them. That old cliché [no pain no gain] is really true.

A study by George Land reveals that we are naturally creative and as we grow up we learn to be uncreative. Creativity is a skill that can be developed and a process that can be managed. Learning to be creative is akin to learning a sport. It requires practice to develop the right muscles, and a supportive environment in which to flourish. Business leaders are increasingly adopting the principles and practices of art and design to help build creative muscle in their organizations.

I am an artist and creativity is my life and it also saved my life after a paralyzing bout of polio at age 10. There are not a lot of things you can do when you’re paralyzed. I was forced to tap into my unconscious creativity. The results were amazing. I began to regain my self-esteem as I developed my creativity. I also found creating made recovery easier. Did you ever notice a child coming home from school with their projects [usually art projects] beaming with pride? It’s a basic human characteristic.

Now that I have said all of that, are you saying to yourself: “what is she talking about, I don’t want to paint”? I am not talking about painting literally. I am talking about basic human creativity. Please allow me to give you a few pointers on how to change your mindset.

• Recognize that everything you do that deviates from text book rules is creative.

• Allow your self and your creative spirit to blossom. Even if it’s a small alteration you make to a recipe. When you serve that dish it will have your special brand of creativity and cooking style.

• Never put yourself down or criticize something that you have created. You will believe what you say about yourself.

• Push to find new and different ways to do things.

• Don’t get stuck in your old routine. Start something new as often as possible. It doesn’t matter how long it takes to complete. What does matter is that your mind will be developing and growing during the creative process.

The results are always uphill and positive. Now that I have completed my last painting I am on to my next creation. The Eye is looking back at you. Visit my art gallery.