What do you do if your creative juices are not flowing at work?

Feeling creatively blocked at work can be frustrating, especially when deadlines loom and ideas seem just out of reach. You're not alone in this struggle, and there are strategies you can employ to get those creative juices flowing again. Workplace design plays a pivotal role in fostering an environment where creativity can thrive. By understanding and implementing changes to your workspace, you can create an atmosphere conducive to innovation and imagination.

1 Change Scenery

Sometimes all it takes to jumpstart your creativity is a change of scenery. If you find yourself staring blankly at your computer screen, try moving to a different space. Whether it's a quiet corner, a bustling café-like area in your office, or even a park bench outside, a new environment can provide fresh stimuli for your senses and new perspectives. This physical shift can disrupt stagnant energy and encourage a mental reset, making room for new ideas to emerge.

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2 Modify Lighting

Lighting can dramatically affect your mood and creativity. If your workspace is dimly lit or flooded with harsh fluorescent lighting, it could be stifling your creative process. Experiment with different levels and types of lighting; perhaps a desk lamp with a warm bulb will create a more inviting and thought-provoking space. Natural light is particularly beneficial, so if possible, position yourself near a window to take advantage of daylight and the changing views it offers.

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3 Incorporate Nature

Bringing elements of nature into your workspace can have a calming effect and enhance creativity. Consider adding plants to your desk or office area. The greenery not only purifies the air but also provides a living element to care for and engage with during moments of contemplation. The presence of plants has been associated with reduced stress levels, which can open the door to more creative thinking.

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4 Take Breaks

It's essential to recognize when you need to step away from your work to clear your head. Taking regular breaks can prevent burnout and boost creativity. Use this time to engage in activities unrelated to work, like a quick walk, meditation, or even doodling. These activities can act as a soft reset for your brain, allowing subconscious thoughts to percolate to the surface and spark creative insights once you return to your task.

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Nicole McCarthy

Craft Portfolio Manager, Expertise Events
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For a super quick solution- A short break, walk outside, readjust your eyesNatural light, fresh air, quick stretching, just to re-set your brain.

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5 Collaborate Often

Collaboration can be a powerful tool for reigniting creativity. When you're stuck, bouncing ideas off colleagues can offer new angles and insights you might not have considered. Engage in brainstorming sessions without the pressure of immediate solutions; this free-flowing exchange of ideas can lead to unexpected and innovative outcomes. Remember, collaboration isn't just about talking; it's also about listening and being open to others' perspectives.

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6 Redesign Workspace

If you have the flexibility, consider redesigning your workspace to better suit your creative needs. This might involve ergonomic furniture that promotes comfort and focus, or creating zones dedicated to different types of work, such as brainstorming, research, and execution. The physical layout of your workspace can influence how you interact with it, so crafting an environment that aligns with your creative process is key to unlocking your full potential.

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Lindsay Hedenskog

Helping purpose-driven leaders redesign work habits and their offices for high-performance and happiness // Follow me for posts on transformative work habits & systems.
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Creativity is linked to a healthy rhythm at work, and getting that means balancing focus and rest during the workday. Redesigning the workspace to allow for rest or breaks can do wonders for creativity. Making a loop around the office to walk and think; having a quiet library space to page through a book; a retreat room where people can lay down and nap or practice mindfulness are all ways you can change the design of the office to support creativity.

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7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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What do you do if your creative juices are not flowing at work?

1

2

3

4

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1 Change Scenery

2 Modify Lighting

3 Incorporate Nature

4 Take Breaks

5 Collaborate Often

6 Redesign Workspace

7 Here’s what else to consider

Workplace Design

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What do you do if your creative juices are not flowing at work?

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

1 Change Scenery

2 Modify Lighting

3 Incorporate Nature

4 Take Breaks

5 Collaborate Often

6 Redesign Workspace

7 Here’s what else to consider

Workplace Design

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