Inspiration is the impulse which precedes creativity.

Matthew Fox is a prolific author and progressive Christian. One of his many books is simply called Creativity (paid link). There is a spiritual focus to the book, but it is also chock full of great insights for creative types, whether you have a spiritual bent or not.

Of course, Fox would say that we are all creative types, that creativity is a grace we are all born with, and that we live in a continually creative universe. While we might not create art in the traditional sense, we are all creative in many aspects of our lives. In Chapter 7 of his book, Fox outlines ways to tap into creativity and I have adapted them to come up with nine.

#1 Fall in love with nature.

Fox says that “praise is the word we speak when we fall in love.” Nature is a muse for me and I do believe that you have to fall in love with it to answer some of our environmental problems as well.

First, start to notice the beauty all around you that we often take for granted. Recognize the earth for its generosity, the sky for its immensity (just take a look at some Hubble images and prepare to be amazed), the water, the rocks, the trees, and animals, all of which we couldn’t live without. It’s all about appreciation, baby.

#2 Don’t run away from pain. 

We’ve all heard this before. Pain and suffering are our teachers. But it seems we’d rather avoid these types of lessons. Fox says to “enter the dark because creativity requires the darkness as well as the light, suffering as well as joy.” We know this is true but that doesn’t make it easier. It was during a difficult time in my life when I discovered photography, my true passion.

#3 Learn something new. Exercise your left brain.

I love this one because I love learning. The left brain is the analytical, rational side of our brain. Expanding our knowledge is a great way to expand our awareness of the world. Expanding our mind expands our heart as well because they are connected. Living in a state of constant learning is a measure of humility and ensures that life is never boring.

#4 Play.

Children understand wonder. I hope I never lose a sense of wonder and awe, although I could play a lot more than I do. There is a certain spontaneity in play which can lead to creativity. Besides, it’s fun!

#5 Exercise your right brain.

The right brain is the pre-rational side of the brain. It is artistic and intuitive. Expanding on the theme of play, how else can you exercise your right brain? Things that are considered pre-rational include music, the theater, dance, art, nature, sex, laughter, etc. Pick one and try it.

#6 Call on your muses.

Many artists call on the muses of ancient Greek mythology, the goddesses of memory, before creating. But, anything can be a muse – a person in your life, nature, a child, the work of other artists, etc. Who or what is your muse? How can you call on them today?

#7 Practice intimacy.

Become intimate with the subject of your art, whether it be your children, nature, or someone you are painting. Feel the connection. Get to know them better. See their beauty. See the parts of them you still need to learn. Be in awe.

#8 Meditate. 

Any type of practice, spiritual or otherwise, that helps you to empty and focus, will make it easier for inspiration to strike. Inspiration needs a place to fill. Meditation is nothing more than bringing focus to our wandering minds. It allows us to look deeper than the surface chatter. Yoga, prayer, exercise, or a walk in nature would achieve the same purpose.

#9 Focus on gratitude.

It may not always feel like this, but life is a gift. Everything we have and are has been freely given to us. It is up to us to do whatever we can with what we’ve been given and to always be grateful for that opportunity. When we tap into our creativity, everything we receive is a gift. Say thank you for something you are grateful for today.

How do you tap into your creativity?