The Top 5 ways to think of new ideas when you’re stuck
So, it’s one of those days eh…?
How often do you find yourself doing something the same way you’ve always done it? Wondering whether you could and should approach it differently…? If you’re like the majority of people, you probably have this feeling quite often. You might not give it too much thought, but chances are you are guilty of doing things the same way over and over. And over, again.
First, I just wanted to give you a little credit and reassure you that you’re not alone. Everyone does it. All the time. We could discuss whether it is something good, but the point is – it’s there. And now, with the few tips prepared for you below, I hope you’ll be better prepared to ‘challenge the status quo’ next time you find yourself stuck…
Tip #1 – Do the opposite…
It might sound rather daft, maybe a little crazy, but my first suggestion for your activity, task or project is this – consider the opposite. Put yourself in the shoes of someone who would approach this burden of yours from a completely different, contradictory, perspective. If you’re about to write a plan of action for the next year and you’re starting from January, turn the table and instead plan out December first. How’s that for a change of perspective…?
Approaching the ‘problem’ from a different angle does two things. Firstly, it allows you to validate or dismiss its ‘problematic nature’ from a fresh, often uncharted, not yet considered, side. Secondly, without the predisposed set of potential ways of dealing with the task, which you would usually have in mind already, your problem-solving brain is free to explore alternative routes to take your project down.
So, do yourself a favour and consider the opposite point of view!
Tip #2 – Become self-aware…
How much time do you spend thinking of the ways your mind works…? How often do you ask yourself whether the avenue you’re used to choosing is even logical…? Becoming more in touch with yourself can be a great way of exploring new ideas and territories. Upon understanding the process of your thinking you’ll gain the ability to recognise whenever your creativity gets shushed by the mundane conditioning of your previous experiences.
By widening the gap between stimulus and response, which can be done through self-inquiry, meditation, or journaling, you will bring forth more out-the-box ideas and thoughts without turning them down straight away. With a longer break before taking an action, you will gain insight into more creative and alternative ways of approaching the problem at hand.
So, take your thoughts seriously and become more self-aware!
Tip #3 – Mix it up a little…
Have you noticed how painters can create an infinite number of colours when mixing some of their paints…? Do you think there is a limit to that number…? How about your ideas – do you think there is a limit to them too…? Whether you work as a bookkeeper or actively create something b as a part of your employment, becoming more creative is possible. There is no limit to the potential approaches you can take when doing your day-to-day activities. Well, I guess, there can be a limit, but you are in charge of it…
Taking your life more lightly and experimenting with your approaches is a great way of getting your creative juices to flow. For example, you could make a change in your schedule and ensure your downtime after work is aligned with a walk in the park to experience the nature around you. This small adjustment, a minor difference in your day, can have a great impact on your professional and private life. Just think of the many scientists and inventors who embraced the calm of nature and boredom to empower their problem-solving abilities.
So, mix it up a little and do something different!
Tip #4 – Sleep on it…
I am sure you’ve heard the phrase ‘sleep on it’ before… Well, have you…? Have you experienced a moment of clarity after a good night’s sleep…? Even if you haven’t, you are probably familiar with the idea. Another example of this same phenomenon in play is the moment you stop looking for a certain object or memory only to find it seconds after you release this urgency from your mind. That is why ‘sleeping on it’ might work…
If you look at your logical mind like you would at a computer, which constantly reviews, catalogizes, and reconsiders the information that your experiences in life bring you, you’ll notice why is it so important to give yourself that undermined nap whenever you feel too stuck to continue. Letting your perception become quiet will allow you to ponder alternative ideas and make new associations between the data stored within your knowledge library.
So, give yourself a break and let your mind off the hook for some time!
Tip #5 – Brainstorm with others…
They say that two heads are better than one. Whether that’s the case in any situation, it’s not for me to decide, but when coming up with new ideas and solving a problem, this is as true as it can get. Really. Coming up with a solution through a brainstorming session is a great way of head-starting your project and raising the chances of its success.
Bringing together a group of people who understand your goal and share your vision can truly revolutionise your efforts. By allowing others to question your ideas and comment on the potential plans, you will gain priceless insight into what otherwise could have gone unnoticed. By looking through a different, their own, lens, these members of your brainstorming team will help you find holes in your plan before you get to the action.
So, empower your success by brainstorming with others!
You won’t be stuck forever…
Recognising that you’re stuck is the first step in getting over it. Without a doubt, everyone suffers from such a state sometimes. Whether you struggle to continue with your writing, fall short in your monthly resolution, or cannot find the right way of approaching the problem at work, there will be times when doing something different becomes a necessity. When those moments arrive, remember you’ve got it covered…
Take these points to your heart and exercise them often. Try to shift your perspective, understand the way you act and think, do it in a different manner, take time out to rest, or bring others on board. And whatever you do, remember – you won’t be stuck forever…
Finally…
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