Creative insights can often feel elusive, but getting to that ‘aha!’ moment doesn’t have to be hard work. Allowing our minds to wander and engaging in seemingly mindless activities can be just as effective, if not more so, in unlocking creativity than overthinking and ruminating. Activities such as showering, walking, and daydreaming can put us in a state of flow—a mental state where one is fully immersed in their activity— leading us to moments of unexpected insight and creativity.
When most people jump in the shower, their thoughts drift off far away from the mundane task of cleansing themselves. Our thoughts, unburdened and free, are most likely to wander to ideas and memories that may have been on the back burner for some time. Suddenly, we remember that business idea you wanted to pursue, or the solution to the problem you had been struggling with the entire week. The process of our minds wandering can open us up to inspiration while in the comfort of the shower.
Walking is a form of mindful exercise that can also lead to creative insights. Studies have shown that going for a stroll can have a positive impact on our productivity, creativity, and well-being. On these nature walks we are able to get out of our own head and see things from a different perspective. As we take in the sights and sounds of our surroundings, our minds are naturally drawn to enter a calmer, meditative state of mind. This allows us to incubate ideas in the subconscious background before they fully realize themselves.
Our best thoughts happen when we allow ourselves to do what comes naturally—wander and enjoy the simple pleasures of life. Unstructured, solitary activities like taking a shower or going for a walk create the perfect opportunity to get into the state of flow, allowing new perspectives to come to the surface. So, next time you need an ‘aha’ moment, don’t overthink. Instead, go embrace the mundane and unlock your inner creativity.
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