If you talk to
individuals who are highly creative, one of the common themes you'll find among
them is that they enjoy being by themselves. It allows them to have quiet time,
which can sometimes be really essential to honing in on your creativity.
While alone time is
a good thing and does help get your creative juices flowing, by no means does
it mean you have to be anti-social.
Let's take a look
at some benefits of spending time alone and how that can help boost your
creativity in the process.
Benefit #1 -
Increased Concentration
When you're alone
and not distracted, it's easier to concentrate, which in turn can also help
with your productivity. But there is one thing worth mentioning here and it has
to do with distractions. Being alone with the TV on or while sitting in front
of your computer is not the same thing as truly spending time with just
yourself. Instead, find a place you can devote specifically to quiet alone time
where you are free from distractions. Then set aside a specific time each time
to go to that quiet space and let your creativity flow.
Benefit #2 - Clear
Your Mind
When you spend time
alone, free from distractions, you'll find that it's a quick and easy way to
clear your mind. Not only does it free you from all the chaotic thoughts that
race around in your head continually, it's also an opportunity to unwind and
relax. Creativity thrives when your body is relaxed and you're mind is free of
mental clutter. Again, just like mentioned in the benefit above, make time each
day to clear your mind so you can tap into your creative self.
Benefit #3 -
Problem Solving
Another benefit of
spending time alone - and again we're talking about quiet, distraction-free alone
time - is that it gives you the space to problem solve. This is essential for increased creativity.
When you begin to train yourself to spend quiet time alone and tap into your
creative side, you'll be able to start thinking about different solutions to
solve a problem(s) you're having. You can then begin to solve problems more
effectively.
Does all this sound
just a bit like meditation? Perhaps. But here’s the key: When you make time to
be alone – even if it’s just 20 minutes every day – your brain then becomes
free to do what it does best – think. When you’re constantly bombarded by input
from your smart phone, the television, a conversation with your spouse or
coworker, the podcast you’re listening to and more, there simply isn’t room in
your head for anything else.
So allow your brain the luxury of quiet time.
You might just be surprised at how creative you can be, when you’re not so busy
with other things.
