Having a process also allows you to think of ideas that may not be easily apparent. What's one thing you do to help come up with new ideas? How can you incorporate this into a repeatable framework (for yourself as well as those you collaborate with)?
My creative process relies heavily on unconscious processing, where ideas and insights often emerge organically from a relaxed state of mind. I find that my thoughts flow most freely during quiet moments, particularly when I'm walking or running. In these solitary activities, I allow myself to let go, easing any deliberate focus on problems or tasks, and instead simply letting my mind wander.
This mental relaxation allows ideas to rise naturally from the deep repository of knowledge, experiences, and impressions stored in the recesses of my subconscious mind. By tapping into this inner space, I can access creativity that feels less forced and more genuine—often revealing connections and solutions I might not reach through structured thinking. This process helps me bring out my best ideas, surfacing them when I’m least actively searching for them, and it enables my work to feel both original and intuitively grounded.
I start by looking at what we have done already, then I make sure the objective is clear in my mind. Set aside focused time to research (I'm definitely going to bring music into this!) Note down ideas and then facilitate a discussion with SMEs, to get their ideas.
To spark new ideas, I love hosting “Coffee & Ideas” sessions. We set a weekly time to gather, sip on coffee, and brainstorm around a specific prompt. It’s all about creating a comfy vibe where no idea feels too wild. We use mind mapping to connect thoughts visually, and at the end, we pick a couple of actionable ideas to explore further. It’s a laid-back way to keep creativity flowing and build a routine that everyone can get behind!
My creative process involves a mix of brainstorming, association, and iteration. Here’s a breakdown of one effective technique I use to generate new ideas, which can be easily incorporated into a repeatable framework:
### 1. **Brainstorming Session** - **Time Block**: Set aside dedicated time (30-60 minutes) for a focused brainstorming session. - **No Judgments**: Encourage wild ideas without criticism. This creates a safe space for creativity.
### 2. **Mind Mapping** - **Visual Connections**: Start with a central theme and branch out with related ideas, concepts, or keywords. This visual representation helps in identifying unexpected connections. - **Collaboration**: Involve team members in creating a mind map to capture diverse perspectives.
### 3. **SCAMPER Technique** - **Substitute**: What can be replaced? - **Combine**: How can two ideas work together? - **Adapt**: What can be adjusted to fit better? - **Modify**: What can be changed for improvement? - **Put to another use**: How can it be repurposed? - **Eliminate**: What can be removed to simplify? - **Reverse**: What if we flipped the idea?
### 4. **Iteration and Refinement** - **Feedback Loop**: Share initial ideas with collaborators to gather feedback and refine them. - **Prototyping**: Create quick prototypes or outlines of the top ideas to see which ones resonate best.
### 5. **Regular Check-Ins** - **Set a Schedule**: Have regular sessions (weekly or monthly) to revisit and build on ideas. This keeps the creative momentum going.
### Incorporating into a Framework: - **Document the Process**: Create a shared document or digital board (like Miro or Trello) to track brainstorming sessions, mind maps, and iterations. - **Establish Roles**: Assign roles for facilitators, note-takers, and idea presenters in collaborative sessions to ensure everyone contributes. - **Encourage Continuous Input**: Set up a system where team members can add ideas anytime, fostering an ongoing flow of creativity.
This framework not only helps generate new ideas but also builds a culture of collaboration and innovation within a team.
For my creative process i like to listen to jazz. i will make a cup of tea or coffee. Then just keep in mind that i am in a process of coming up with a creative idea. I will think of the end goal in mind. Wanting to express the brands benefits while intriguing the potential customer base while grabbing attention they will want to consume.
Having a quiet time alone, conducting deep reserach on the project i am working on; writing down points that resonate with me. Thinking about the points that i wrote down and how i can apply it to whatever project it is that i am working on.
After doing research, I love to listen to music. This helps me keep my mind relaxed while I digest the information I have gathered. In the end, I'm able to generate new ideas without stress.
Researching on competitors high engaging content then go for a run while listening to music helps me with my creative thought process. I tend to find most of my clarity during my long runs
For me, Listening to calming music while reasurching or brainstorming helps my creative juices flow. Something about it helps keep my brain engaged but also relaxed.
My creative process begins with gathering inspiration from different sources like articles, videos, or nature. I then let ideas incubate by stepping away for a while, allowing my mind to process them.
One thing I do to spark new ideas is going for a walk, which often brings fresh perspectives. To make this a repeatable framework, I schedule brainstorming sessions with breaks, giving time for reflection and creativity.
My creative process involves deliberate educational and inspiration time. I find that having time set aside for creativity and creating a swipe file for later use works best for me.
My creative process is scanning websites for real life situations and thinking about practical solutions. At night, I think about possible solutions and ideas pop up.
I would my say one of my creative process is going out for a walk on trails or parks, which helps me clear my mind and spark new ideas. This will then allow me to focus and recharge which fosters my creativity and inspiration in things that I do.
Taking the time to walk around outside and absorb nature helpes me come up with ideas. But i do not shy away form screen time. Many ideas for videos i get from watching others perform. Its what they said, a combination of old elements.
I usually will just look around me to see what strikes an idea. Walking past a playground you may notice a safety issue, or having access to a site that gives "Idea of the Day" bits is helpful as it provides prompt ideas that you can sift through until you find something interesting to write about. If you don't have an idea that needs to be worked on, sparking an idea can be as simple as keeping your mind open and scrolling the internet. Maybe you want to learn more about Cyebrsecurity or AI or a new geological discovery. Research it and write about it. I think most of the time, coming up with writing prompts is easy. It's getting yourself out of a funk is more difficult.
For that, you need to find your reset. Listen to music, watch your favorit comedian, or a movie, go for a drive or work on a problem that maybe impeding your creativity. Your know what works to turn your mood around, so put that plan into action and getting back where you need to be will be easier.
