By Rosalie Marcus, The Promo Biz Coach
As a small business coach, I specialize in helping people in the promotional products industry shorten the learning curve and boost their sales quickly.
One of the frequent challenges I hear from my coaching clients is “I need some new ideas; I’m stuck and I’m not very creative.” If that sounds like you, read on…
This is a unique industry in which creativity is a valued part of our everyday existence. Yet, all of us, myself included, sometimes experience those mental blocks where, no matter how hard we try, we can’t generate a new or creative solution.
Whether you’re working on new ideas for a current client, looking for innovative ways to generate business or facing a challenging workplace problem, fresh creative thinking can help you achieve your objectives more quickly. Studies have shown that all of us have the ability to be creative thinkers. Given the proper stimulation, those ideas will flow.
Do you need a break through? Here are six smart ways to jumpstart your creative juices:
1. Take a Break
This may sound counter intuitive, but sometimes the most productive thing to do is step away from the problem in order to move closer to a solution. Go for a long walk, read a book, work out at the gym, take a shower; do something that takes you away from the challenging task. Anything to clear your head and get a fresh perspective.
2. Keep An Idea Journal
I like to carry a notepad with me at all times. Some of my most creative ideas come when I’m miles from the office, both literally and figuratively. I may be sitting in the dentist’s waiting room or stuck in traffic, but when inspiration hits, I have my notepad and pen with me to record my thoughts. I also keep a notepad on my night table for middle-of-the-night inspirations.
3. Ask For Help
Just about every morning, I start my day going to my local fitness club for exercise. If I’m stuck for a creative solution, I share my challenge with a workout buddy. I’m sure you’ve heard the old adage: “Two heads are better than one”. Some of my most creative ideas and solutions to my challenges were the result of my morning conversations. You can also get help with your challenges by joining an e-mail support forum, like the one I faciilitate, for promotional products’ professionals.
4. Sleep On It
This is a technique I learned many years ago. Before I go to bed, I focus my attention on a problem I want to solve. This is different than worrying about it. I just say to myself, “ I need help with X.” This technique allows the challenge to be planted and managed in the subconscious mind.
5. Use Technology
Consult supplier Web sites. They’re great sources of creative ideas. Many have case histories you can easily duplicate with your own clients. Bookmark your favorites. Viewing them on a regular basis can lead to some very creative ideas. Industry research site, such as ESP, SAGE and PMDM can also help when you’re stuck. And doing a Google search, with some key words, is bound to turn up some ideas you may have never thought about.
6. Listen To Your Intuition
As we grow older, we frequently get further away from what we know is instinctively true or right. If your instincts are telling you something—listen. It could be to “walk away” from a difficult situation or to call a client because you instinctively know they need your help. The important thing is to listen to those inklings; they are giving you some important information.
Rosalie Marcus, The Promo Biz Coach, shortens the learning curve for promotional products consultants helping them make more money with less effort in less time! Reach her at [email protected] or (215) 572-6766.
