According to cognitive psychologist Robert J. Sternberg, creativity can be broadly
defined as "...the process of producing something that is both original and worthwhile"
(2003). Creativity is all about finding new ways of solving problems and approaching
situations.
Here’s another exercise to help you increase your ability to solve problems creatively.
Creative Exercise 8 - Looking for Alternatives Most people rush in to tackle a problem
without considering the alternatives and without attempting to understand what is
involved. As the result, they waste a lot of time and effort.
To illustrate the importance
of analysis, copy this design and keep track of how long it takes you. (Tracing defeats
the object of this exercise.)
If it took anywhere from one to three minutes try a different approach, copying it
again to see if that new point of view helps you complete the design more quickly.
The
design can be copied easily and accurately in less than 15 seconds. One step-by-step
approach is as follows:
Creativity coaching can help you with your thinking, so that you can generate alternatives
to solve your problems in ways that suit your situation in the most beneficial way
for all concerned.
Click here to arrange an introductory session to find out more.
Another imaginative solution occurs when you recognise the pattern as being made
up of four identical parts. Drawing them one after another and rotating each successive
part 90 degrees makes a speedy reproduction:
You can tape two pencils together and
zip through to a speedy solution.
If you take a moment to reflect on the various parts of your life (surroundings,
family, work, fun . . . to name a few), are there areas that could do with some
alternative solutions? Maybe there are aspects you'd like to change, even slightly,
that would help tip your life toward a better balance. How could your life be a little
more sustainable and fulfilling? Part of the magic of creating a more balanced life
is that when you improve one area, you are not only helping the other areas too,
but are happier and more energised by your new path.
