Avoid These Barriers To Creativity And Let Yourself Thrive
We are all born to be creative, imaginative, innovative, and resourceful.
Creativity is the ability to develop new ideas or to make something new. Cultivating more creativity can benefit your relationships, career, and hobbies. Creativity comes naturally to children, but as adults we often have less inspiration to create. There are also many barriers to creativity.
There are many more barriers to creativity, and examples I could share, but being aware of these nine will free up enough brain space to allow you to tap into what other things may be getting in the way of your inherent creative genius.
9 common barriers to creativity:
1. Past experiences.
Your past affects your present beliefs and patterns of thinking. Try to open your mind to all the possibilities. Just because something didn’t work in the past doesn’t mean it won’t work today. Release the past and free your creativity.
2. Stopping too soon.
Once a great idea is found, it’s normal to stop looking for a better answer. Are you sure you’ve chosen the right word for your song? Or the right color for your artwork? Or the perfect passage for your novel? Once you’ve found a great idea, keep expanding and looking for an even better one.
3. Stress.
Stress hampers creativity. Whether it’s the stress of being overworked, chronic illness, lack of time, or financial issues, creativity is more difficult than when you’re peaceful. Make time to relax before being creative work. Your results will flow better and will be enriched.
4. Fear of criticism.
Don’t let others keep you from what you are meant to create.No matter what you do, someone will provide criticism. Learn to ignore the unsupportive advice and let your creativity shine.
5. Fear of failure.
It can be the fear of failure or a fear of losing money or valuable time. You’re resilient enough to handle what comes your way. You’ve already failed hundreds of times at one time or another and you’ve survived, and thrived. What would happen if you did fail?
6. Interruptions.
Time and space create energy for brilliance. It’s more challenging to come up with a great idea if your kids are calling your name or your phone is constantly buzzing. Schedule your creative time to avoid as many interruptions as possible. Either early in the morning and in the evening can be the best option for many of us.
7. Distractions.
A distraction is an interruption you give yourself. How do you usually waste time? Remove those distractions from your immediate surroundings. Turn off your phone ringer (when you can)and place it out of sight. Turn off the TV. Place your focus completely on your creative activity. Distractions are somewhat controllable. Use your self-discipline to overcome them when you can.
8. Negative moods.
It’s not just impatience. Anger, stress, jealousy, fear, hopelessness, or sadness, can also be obstacles to creativity. Research shows that creativity tends to be its highest when we experience positive and strong moods. Do whatever is necessary to boost your mood before pursuing creative endeavors. Listen to positive music, call a trusted friend, or take a relaxing walk. What makes you feel better when you’re in a negative mood?
9. Too many options.
Paradoxically, it can be easier to find your creative flow if you limit your choices. Try writing a story with only 250 words or painting with only two colors. Or sing a song with only a few notes. Having too many choices can be a distraction in itself. Try limiting your choices if you’re lost your creative flow.
If your creativity is significantly blocked, consider that maybe something is in your way. A fundamental part of your uniqueness is your creativity.
We are all born to be creative, resourceful, innovative, and imaginative.
We come hardwired with innate desires and unique aspirations buried deep within us.
Because the bottom line is this, creativity cannot remain hidden when our lives are illuminated with truth, hope, and freedom.
With great love and gratitude, Aurora
