How to Boost Your Creativity

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Every now and then, you’ll find yourself in a creative rut. No matter what industry you’re in, your mind can call it quits at any time during the day.

One solution that I’ve found that works wonders is walking. There’s something about being able to move and get the blood flowing through your body. And if you’re outside you’ll get that bonus fresh air and oxygen pumping newfound energy into your your system. 

Even if you’re unable to be outside, the ability to stimulate the synapses in your brain to power multiple functions in the body leaves your brain refreshed and ready to take on tasks. This is much more evident than if you were sedentary; if you’re not moving your brain has no incentive to actively stay on task. 

This goes beyond observation. Studies have shown that a casual walk could boost creativity. Researchers at Stanford published a study that got subjects to think of new ideas while either sitting down at their desk or while walking on a treadmill at their own pace. What they found was that those who were thinking in an active environment did better than those who were sitting. In fact, those who sat after walking still fared better than those who sat the entire time. You can read the entire study.

So the next time a co-worker asks to schedule a meeting, go for a walk together instead. Exercise those thinking muscles! Brainstorming sessions will never be the same again.