10 Reasons Why You Must Have Creative Rest
Re-boot your brain for increased productivity
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What is the first thing you do when your computer is malfunctioning? What are those all too familiar words that we hear? “Just turn it off and turn it back on again.” And voila, everything seems to fall into place.
The same can be said for our brains. When we get stuck, lack motivation, inspiration, feel creativity waning, we need a re-set!
Creative rest is the name given to such activity. We don’t actually turn our brains off, we instead turn our attention to a different type of information or instruction.
10 Activities Guaranteed To Re-boot Your Creative Process.
Sleep. Yes, good old sleep. Not as exciting as a writer’s retreat but just as effective. We know how good we feel after a great sleep. Ready to take on the day and write.
Puzzles. Work on a puzzle for a half an hour. This activity forces our brain to use different information processing systems producing a spill over effect of creativity.
Coloring books. Treat yourself to an adult coloring book and color away.
Build a model. Are you into model miniature cars or trains? Follow the instructions, engage your powers of concentration, and witness your creativity soar.
LEGO. Yes, LEGO. Grab some of your kid’s LEGO and have a blast. Build something spectacular and then get back to the business of writing.
Exercise. Go for a walk around the block or through a park. Connecting with nature will re-boot your system.
Crosswords puzzles. Aside from being a great way to re-direct focus, these type of puzzles are great for adding to a writer’s vocabulary.
Baking. Any activity that forces you to follow instructions is fantastic for creative rest. This focused, diverted attention will re-set your brain to creativity mode.
Learn another language. Just practice a few words a day. This activity is like gymnastics for your brain. Your creative process will get stronger.
Travel. Yes, don’t we all love to travel. Even short changes of scenery are good for our brains. Do what you can to have a change of environment.
Creativity is a bit of a double edged sword. In order to be truly creative, we have to also be un-creative. That is, engage in activities that require concentration and following instructions.
Instead of beating your head against a wall the next time you are feeling stuck as a writer, force yourself to switch gears and engage in an alternative form of activity.
You will return to your desk brimming with fresh ideas.
You may even surprise yourself.
Happy writing.
