Creativity and innovation are an integral part of success for a business. But as important as they are, many of us have trouble tapping into that part of our brain. Life gets busy, and we get wrapped up in the routine of our everyday business operations. However, in order for us to flourish we need to unleash our creativity.

Personally, I’m always looking for ways to inspire myself. I like to absorb as much information as possible, and have found one of the best ways to be inspired is by learning from others. Here is some of the best advice I have received on honing in on my creativity and innovation, which has helped lead to the success of my business.

Be Original

Be original, be different, be unique and own it. Strive to be the person others look to for inspiration. Instead of coming up with ideas by using others’ examples, try to find inspiration within yourself. It can be easy to take ideas from other people, but what really pushes you forward is creating that perfect idea, the one that makes everyone else wonder why they didn’t think of it first.

We sometimes forget to unlock our own unique creativity. I was taught to be original, and it has helped me to come up with some great ideas and has been a contributing component of my success. It is how well you can think for yourself, and the way you use your creativity, that will separate you from everyone else.

When it’s time for me to come up with an original idea, I like to find a place where I feel free; free from distractions and open to the possibilities of what I’m capable of. For me, this place is often a beautiful, quiet park along the water not too far from my house. There is something about flowing water and the tranquility of nature that inspires me. Once I am there I like to reflect, take pieces of the past and my own experiences and shape them into something new and different.

Clear Your Mind

Golf, meditation, yoga, jogging, listening to music, reading: Do whatever it takes to clear your mind. Taking 15-30 minutes a day for yourself where you don’t worry about work or your personal life can be excellent for your mental health and overall well-being. For me this has come in the form of meditation. Meditation has helped me relax and has kept me centered. I like to begin my day with 15 minutes of meditation before my family has woken up. It has greatly improved my focus, and sets my mood to a positive tone for the rest of the day.

Write Daily in a Journal

Take 15 minutes a day and write down your thoughts, make a to-do list, or even write a letter to a friend. I would suggest doing this by hand, as there is something about penmanship that makes it more personal. Writing can be a great outlet, and even a therapeutic process for the mind. Find a style of writing that will exercise your mind and get the creative juices flowing.

Although I laughed when a friend first suggested this technique, after giving it a shot it’s now part of my daily routine. I’ve found that taking the time to write at night before bed works best. I always have a lot on my mind at the end of the day, and this helps me unwind, puts my mind at ease and expands my creativity

This process has also had a positive effect on my business. Since I have this outlet I am able to get the sleep I need, leaving me refreshed and ready for the next day. It has also helped me with client communication, as it can be almost like writing a producers report. Evaluating the day’s work helps me understand where I can improve, and writing then reflecting on the bumps in the road has led to some really great solutions.