8 Unexpected Ways To Get The ‘Creative Juices’ Flowin A listicle written for The Odyssey Online in October 2015 By Emily Oldenquis Here are eight helpful hints for the times you may wish a ‘thinking cap’ really existed 1. Listen to a past favorite son In the world of small talk, “What is your favorite song?” may forever be the hardest question to answer. The dif culty of this question may be attributed to the fact that I rack my brain for a song that will represent my general music taste. I frequently attempt to nd a song that hints at my love for jazz, captures my devotion to rock and roll, and infuses my guilty infatuation with synth-sampled rap. Unfortunately, I have yet to discover a song to incorporate each of these genres. Regardless of my failed attempts to articulate a current favorite song, the list of nostalgic favorites goes on. I think back to Hillary Duff and her teeny-bopper albums blaring in my bedroom. But I can also recall The Beatles’ famous “Octopus’ Garden” in which I listened to on repeat as I made my way to freshman year in the passenger seat. The melodies of these songs often take me back to the rst time I listened to these songs. I have found that the memories associated with these songs can lead to ideas, and these ideas have lead to some of my best creations 2. People-watc Airports, public parks, subway stations: basically anywhere with a crowd can be entertaining if you choose to look. My recommendation is simple: sit yourself on a communal bench, put your phone in your pocket and soak in both the absurdities and beauties that accompany your living environment. I have found myself forming stories around people I have never met. I can say that I have seen out ts and styles that have inspired over-the top shopping trips (not recommended). Take “watch and learn” to the next level- create 3. Recall an old in Adele does it best in the song “Someone Like You.” In 2011 (the year of her Multi-Platinum release), Adele made it clear that her “Someone” was missing out. I think it is safe to say that heartbreak served her well. Whether your “Someone” was a long-term partner or a current pursuit at something more, do not underestimate the power of relationships. Interpersonal experiences of all sorts de nitely reveal themselves in works across the board. Maybe, someday —thanks to and ex-love—you will be “Rolling in the Deep.
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4. Go for a ru Endorphins! Yes, these biochemical hormones work wonders. When people exercise, hormones called endorphins are released. Not only will endorphins relieve the stress that may be clogging your creativity. But, according to a 2014 research article conducted by the Huf ngton Post … "regular exercise seems to be associated with improved divergent and convergent thinking, which are considered the two components of creative thinking; the former involves thinking of multiple solutions for one problem, while the latter involves thinking of one solution for a problem.