If trying to be creative feels like slogging through mud lately, you may be trying too hard.
If so, I’ve got good news for you!
Several articles I’ve read lately disputed the idea that “thinking outside the box” is the way to be more creative. It’s given me hope, as I don’t tend to be an “outside the box” thinker.
I actually like my box. It’s cozy. It’s nicely decorated–but unoriginal, I fear.
Inside or Outside the Box?
Who’s most creative? Read the following articles and decide for yourself.
- “Spark Your Creativity by Thinking INSIDE the Box” and “Don’t Try to Be Original” by Mark McGuinness (two articles)
- “Do You Recognize These 10 Mental Blocks to Creative Thinking?” by Brian Clark.
- “Do More Great Work: an Interview with Michael Bungay Stanier” The subtitle of his book Do More Great Work is a good summary of the article: Stop the busywork and start the work that matters.
- Are you looking for that idea that fits you like a glove? The one you can be passionate about for many months as you write your book? Mick Silva says to “Write About What Disturbs You.”
One Last Thought
Are you thinking that the articles sound good–but you just don’t know if you’re up to it? Then I have one last post for you to read: “3 Things You Can Start Doing Today to Build Your Self-Confidence” by Henrik Edberg. They’re simple–but effective. And they work no matter what side of the box you prefer.
Now, have at it! And if you’re brave, leave a comment and tell us which side of the box you prefer!