How to think creatively

A few years ago I asked a friend of mine why he became a graphic designer. Here's what he said, "I realize that everything in the world is designed. The chair you are sitting in was designed by someone."

Take a moment to look around you. Name one thing that was not designed. Behind everything we see, hear, and touch is a designer. Even your day and your life can be designed.

Design takes creative thinking, and creativity is something we all possess in greater or lesser degrees. We might categorize people as "creatives" but we all have been given the ability to create by our Creator. Whether you want to live life by design or simply want to think through an idea that came to you in the shower, here are three ways to think creatively.

1. Use a mind map - A mind map is a tool that helps organize your thoughts by putting them on paper. The young woman pictured above is using a mind map. In the center of the page, write down your main idea. Once you have the main idea, brainstorm subtopics and ideas that branch off the main idea. Draw a circle around each subtopic or idea. Once you are done brainstorming ideas, take a moment and look at what you have written. Ask yourself what you notice about what you've mapped. What is emerging? What is even deeper?

2. Write and don't edit - Julia Cameron, in her classic book The Artist's Way, says one of the best ways to begin thinking creatively is to write daily. She calls them "artist pages." For the next ten days, take a blank sheet of paper, set a timer for 20 minutes, and write. Don't edit and don't stop until the timer goes off. Don't worry. You don't need to share what you've written with anyone. It's just between you and you and the page in front of you. Just write and see what emerges.

3. Share with a supportive friend - Sometimes the best way to flesh out an idea is to share it with a supportive friend. It's kind of like the mind map tool described above. However, instead of it being on paper, it is a verbal collaborative experience with someone who respects and appreciates you. It could be a mentor, a close friend, a coach, or therapist. Regardless of who it is, create space in your calendar and start the creative process.

Remember, I'm pulling for you. We're in this together.