The cultivation formula

Best thoughts strike in the shower? Or maybe deadlines spur you to get shit done? If there’s one thing experts agree on, it’s that creativity is highly personal. However, these strategies are universally loved (by the pros, too) for igniting a spark

Check your feels

People tend to be better at generating ideas when they’re in a positive mood. Receiving negative news can hinder your creative processing, says Dr Cotter. It makes sense: do you feel excited about a new project after you’ve heard a friend is going through a tough time? Probably not.

Focus on flexibility

What worked when you were younger may do nothing for you now. ‘Creativity is fluid,’ says Abraham. Those who engage with creativity regularly have experienced how it can change with age or circumstances and adjust their rituals accordingly. Your go-to morning coffee and journalling habit may soon become evening tea if you have a little one who’s up with the sun. And that’s okay. ‘Think about what will work for you now,’ says Dr Abraham.

Book a break

It may seem counterintuitive to stop doing what you’re doing, but it’s a smart step for a block. ‘You’ll still subconsciously process that information, and once you hit pause, you’re coming at it with a fresh mindset,’ says Dr Cotter. In fact, when people who were picking up a new skill (like playing the piano) took short pauses, they performed better, found research in Cell Reports.

Just move

Going for a stroll can help boost creative insights, says Dr Cotter. New science takes it further: vigorous physical activity – such as intense aerobics – enhances the ability to come up with solutions, according to research in Brain Sciences.