By: Roberta Schlehr

Last month I wrote an article about brainstorming as it relates to generating ideas and solving problems. Brainstorming encourages a way to think freely and without judgement, at least not at this early stage! I discussed the technique of generating ideas quickly, in the creative world called thumbnail sketches and how to generate them. Get your ideas down on paper, if you are not comfortable or feel you don’t have the ability to sketch - then start with a list of words or short phrases. Whatever method you choose, let the ideas flow. Judge only when enough ideas are generated, then evaluate for potential possibilities.

Did you come up with good ideas or at least a starting point? Maybe you will continue brainstorming with someone about your ideas and/or discuss the problem you are trying to solve. Either way it is time to put your thoughts into action.

I brainstormed practical ways to implement everyday creativity into your world.

At home: It is spring and a great time to freshen up indoors and out.

Inside: Start simply with rearranging furniture from a cozy winter layout to an open, spacious arrangement. Adding a fresh coat of paint or changing the color can bring fresh energy to the space. Try this in other rooms of your house. Be careful not to overdo — take it slow so you don’t get overwhelmed.

Outside: Adding new flowers to your garden that bloom at different times from what you currently have can be a gift for years to come. Try changing the cushions or throw pillows on your patio furniture to give a new look.

Personal growth: Get creative in the kitchen. Are you tired of cooking the same type of meals? Check out new recipes or join a cooking class. Experiment cooking a new meal once a week from a different culture that you are curious to try.

Problem solving: Create a mind map instead of listing the pros and cons of the problem. Ask What if… come up with all different kinds of solutions, maybe some that seem impossible. Think outside of the box!

There are many, many ways to explore and incorporate everyday creativity into your life. Start with a journal or use your smartphone camera to capture inspiration all around you. Act on the spark of inspiration whether it is a traditional creative project like painting, sculpting, writing, or tackling household tasks. This is your creative adventure — where is it going to take you