In my opinion, creativity is one of the most fascinating abilities of the human mind. In fact, in my opinion, it is perhaps the most important feature that separates humans from animals…
Discovery of the undiscovered 😎
Can we all be creative? Yes, absolutely! Creativity is not a talent reserved for artists or writers. In fact, each of us uses creativity in our daily lives, perhaps without even realizing it.
But what part of the brain is responsible for this amazing ability, and how can it be developed?
In this article, we’ll explore the effects of creative thinking on the brain, how it can be developed, and practical applications that will boost your creativity.
Creativity in the Brain and How It Works
Creativity Centers of the Brain:
What do we know about the brain regions that spark our creativity, shape our ideas, and feed our imagination? Actually, we still know very little, but here’s what we do know: Creative thinking begins with the abstract thinking and problem-solving skills of the frontal lobe. The temporal lobe forms new ideas from our past memories and knowledge, while the parietal lobe helps us create spatial and visual representations of these ideas.
The Role of Neurotransmitters:
High levels of dopamine help us come up with new ideas, while serotonin feeds our creative thinking by making us feel more balanced and happy. So even though creative solutions always come to us in times of crisis, we are actually more creative when we are happy. I find this very interesting…
An Example from History: Apollo 13 📡👽
Let’s continue with an interesting example from history… In 1970, an oxygen tank explosion during the Apollo 13 mission threatened the lives of the crew. With limited materials, NASA engineers were able to redesign the carbon dioxide filters and bring the astronauts safely back to Earth. This is a great example of how creativity can save lives in difficult times. If you want to see the full story, I highly recommend the 1995 movie Apollo 13, starring Tom Hanks.
Practical Exercises To Increase Creative Thinking
So, what are the ways to increase our creativity? 🤗
I have described a number of exercises below, and you can pick a few that work for you and incorporate them into your life right away.
Keep a Visual Diary 👩🎨
Have you ever heard of a visual diary? 😱 A visual diary is the creative version of a diary… A visual diary is when you express your thoughts and feelings through pictures, sketches, or collages, as well as writing. This allows you to explore and express your creative thinking visually.
Brainstorming and Freewriting ✍🏻️
Whether alone or in a group, always brainstorm. Brainstorming creates an environment where even irrational ideas can be valuable. Freewriting allows you to put your inner thoughts on paper and explore your creative potential.
Do Brain Gymnastics 🤔
Brain teasers, puzzles, logic questions, and word games improve problem-solving skills and creative thinking. Those who play complex games such as Sudoku are known to have a lower risk of developing diseases such as Alzheimer’s.
Take A Walk in Nature 🧑🦯
Nature is a great source of creative thought. On your next walk, observe the beauty and details of your surroundings; it can be a source of inspiration for new ideas.
Change Your Daily Routines
Our routines can bore us. Small changes like taking a different route to work, trying a new hobby, or dressing in a different style can spark your creativity.
Participate in Art Activities, Improvise 🎸🎺
Artistic activities such as improvisational theater, music, or dance encourage spontaneous creativity and strengthen your ability to think spontaneously.
Learn a New Language
Is there a language you’d like to learn but haven’t had the chance? I’ve always been curious about French, for example… Learning a new language improves your brain structure and thinking, and you can also be exposed to the creative expressions of different cultures 🙂 .
Experience Different Forms of Art 🪗🥁
Experiencing different forms of art such as painting, sculpture, music, dance or writing allows you to express and develop your creativity in different ways. I am sure you can find many activities to participate in on the weekends… Let’s take a look out the window. 🙏🏻
Cook Different Meals 🌮
Have you ever tried avocado eggs? I have, and I never thought they could be so delicious in a croissant… Try cooking something new. Even improvise. Cooking is a creative way to combine ingredients, flavors, and techniques. Trying new recipes or creating your own dishes develops your creative thinking. There are plenty of resources on the Internet. Let’s try something new today…
Do Yoga 🤸♀️
Yoga and other physical movements provide mental clarity and focus. They set the stage for creative thinking.
Do Thought Experiments
Doing “what if…” thought experiments develops your imagination and your ability to create scenarios. For example, create alternate history scenarios or imagine living on another planet.
What is your favorite creative activity? Please share it with me 🙂
As always, I will share the sources I used at the end of this article…
Resources
- Csikszentmihalyi, M. (1996). Creativity: Flow and the Psychology of Discovery and Invention.
- Dietrich, A. (2004). The cognitive neuroscience of creativity.
- Kaufman, S. B., & Gregoire, C. (2016). Wired to Create: Unraveling the Mysteries of the Creative Mind.
- Sawyer, R. K. (2012). Explaining Creativity: The Science of Human Innovation.
- “The Neuroscience of Creativity,” American Psychological Association.