I struggled to believe that I had any ounce of creativity in my life. Because of this belief I gave up on many of my dreams. I don’t want that for you. You are creative, even if you’ve failed to realize it. In fact, you can’t fail to create.You created the life you’re living right now, even if you don’t appreciate it very much! However, unless you’ve tried to maximize your creativity, you’ve only been operating at half-throttle.

Enhance your ability to access your imagination with these strategies:

1. Practice without distractions. Turn off the TV and dim the lights. Have a seat and close your eyes. Allow your mind to wander, but don’t fall asleep. Instead of trying to steer your thoughts, let them run wild. Practice being an observer instead of a director. Do this daily for 15-20 minutes.
   • Use all of your senses. You can do more than just see. You have the ability to hear, feel, smell, and touch. Use all of these senses when you’re utilizing your imagination.
   • Your imagination will feel stronger if you use it daily. Try not to skip a day.
2. Read something outrageous (for you). Try reading a fictional book about aliens, fire-breathing dragons, or time travel. Expose yourself to new ideas and concepts. The more you experience, the more your imagination will have to work.
   • The same goes for movies. Branch out. You can only watch so many action movies or romantic comedies!
3. Take up a creative hobby. Learn to paint, sculpture, or play the accordion. Try writing a screenplay or drawing a monster. Use the creative part of your brain.
4. Explore your passions. Do something you’ve always wanted to try, but haven’t yet. New mental states can increase your level of creativity.

Use your imagination to find creative solutions:

1. Set an intention. Think of an intention as a short-term goal for an activity. What are you trying to accomplish with your imagination? Find a solution for your relationship challenge? Figure out a way to earn more money? Invent a gadget that will change the world?
   • It’s important to have an objective for your imagination to focus on.
2. Choose a method of addressing your imagination: 
   • You can turn off the lights and focus on your intention.
   • You could sleep on it.
   • You could sit at a clean table with a pad of paper and write whatever comes to mind. Keep going for at least 30 minutes.
   • You could ask yourself questions and listen for the answers.
   • Take part in an activity that engages your mind, but not completely. This can include activities like cleaning the house, taking a shower, mowing the lawn, or listening to classical music. These activities occupy part of your mind, but leave the remainder to create ideas.

3. Act on what you discover. Creative solutions are worthless unless you act upon them. Reward yourself for being creative by putting your ideas into action. Sort your ideas and choose the best one. Try and see if your imagination was correct! You’ll get better with practice.

 Your ability to imagine is one way to address your creativity. Instead of mindlessly staring out the window and daydreaming, you can direct your imagination to address specific issues in your life. Try one technique today and every day forward and watch your creativity soar….