By Michael Angier

Web SuccessNet

What Do You Mean You're Not Creative?

I write at least one article a week. Plus I'm usually working on one or two books. I also do a fair amount of copywriting. People often ask me how I come up with all the ideas to write about.

The truth is, I could generate hundreds of ideas a day for books and articles. I'm fortunate to recognize ideas all around me—in any situation.

All too often, people think creative or artistic types are simply born that way. They think a person is either creative or they're not. I disagree.

I'll admit that it does seem to come easier to some than others. But I don't think it's a question of whether or not you're creative. I think it's a question of whether or not you're willing to EMBRACE your creativity.

My wife Dawn is one of those people who is always-amazed by creative people while thinking that she isn't one of them. And yet, she's survived difficult circumstances, used to drive an 18-wheeler, became a Microsoft Certified Trainer and is one of the top trainers in the country. Her new eBook, How to Deliver Highly Effective Presentations, which she organized, wrote and formatted, sold over 500 copies in the first three weeks. I think THAT takes creativity.

Like someone who is intuitive or even psychic, we all have the capability. We just may not have developed it.

If you've ever solved a problem or connected some apparently unconnected dots, you've demonstrated that you're creative. Just surviving on the planet requires SOME creativity.

Scientists tell us we have two parts to our brain which they've labeled the right and left brain. The right brain is the more feeling, creative side and the left brain is the more thinking or logical side.

Those of us who seem more creative have simply been able to tap into our creative consciousness better than some. Others have developed their logic better and seem more left-brain oriented.

The fully functioning person has learned to use BOTH sides. One is no better than the other. They're both required and they both benefit from training.

Much of it has to do with practice. And even more of it has to do with belief.

I know for sure you can't be more creative by telling yourself that you're not. In fact, the more you do that, the less you'll trust your creativity.

Action Point
Acknowledge yourself as the creative being you are. Don't tell yourself you're not creative. Tell yourself you are increasingly creative. Pat yourself on the back for those times you've come up with good ideas.

It may not change rapidly. Then again, it might. By believing you're tapped into infinite wisdom, by knowing that your awesome brain power can do what no man-made computer can do, you dramatically increase the chances for your improved creativity.

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http://successnet.org/articles/angier-innovation.htm

10 Ways to Foster Innovation
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