06. Help people
You don't need to spend every waking moment of your day helping people, but it's a good idea to help at least one person, per day. It doesn't need to be a huge act of kindness. Heck, sometimes even a simple smile is enough.
Helping people is important. It helps us feel connected, even if it's not directly tied to being creative. Then again, you never know what kind of creative spark will occur during one of your crusades: http://www.tammycoron.com/life/im-sure-someone-else-will-stop/
07. Go outside
Being creative is an energy vampire. One of the best ways to recharge your batteries is to be surrounded by Mother Nature. With very little effort, your creativity (and productivity) can increase simply by taking a walk. That's right! There's a whole world beyond your door.
So get outdoors, and enjoy the sunshine. Shut off the computer. Step away from the drawing pencils. And whatever you do, don't check your email.
08. Go with the flow
Have you ever tried to paddle upstream? It's difficult; it takes a lot more effort than sitting in the boat and going with the flow.
Life is no different. Sometimes, things are literally out of your control; the more you attempt to control these things, the worse you feel. This will drain you and your creativity – and your sanity.
Try pulling your oars out of the water and going with the flow. Without resistance, amazing things can happen.
09. Connect with other creatives
Yes, it's true. You're not alone. Find others like you. They're out there. I promise. You just need to go look for them.
Being a shut-in isn't good for anyone. But it's especially important for creatives to get out and meet other creatives. Talk with people in your industry. Find out what they're working on, what they're up to. Discover new ideas, and toss yours into the ring. If nothing else, it's a great way to network and – possibly – find new work.
10. Stay inspired
Find your inspiration. It can be inside a book, a movie, a song or even another person. Whatever it is, find it and use it to inspire your creativity. For me, it's my children. I know that sounds a bit cliché, but it's true. I watch my boys experience new things and can't help to think how cool it would be to create something new, something no one has ever seen before. This is what drives me to create.
I also like to hear my kids laugh and see them smile. Again, knowing that I have it within my power to draw something funny or write a witty one-liner helps me to keep doing more of the same. So I encourage you to find what inspires you to help keep your creative spirit alive.
Are you a creative? What do you do to survive in a world filled with 'normies'? Let us know in the comments.
Words: Tammy Coron
Tammy Coron is an iOS developer, backend developer, web developer, writer, and illustrator. She blogs at Just Write Code.
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