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Stress and Creativity

 
Our minds can be scattered when under stress and creativity takes certain amounts of concentration and thought. Creativity works well when our minds are in a positive state and we are relaxed. Creative thoughts can flow freely, whether you write, do art, or play music. Being relaxed and happy is the perfect state of mind for you to come up with fantastic new ideas. However, when you begin to stress, you might have difficulty coming up with ideas, problems focusing on your art or music, and in general, find that your creativity level has dropped a surprising amount.

The brain is unable to function as well creatively because of extra hormones and chemicals appearing during stressful times. At the same time, you may be worrying about something or many things, and this continuous worrying fills up your mind, leaving little room for creative thoughts. What’s more, if you find yourself unable to come up with a creative idea, you may feel even more stressed. A lower level of creativity may just be the precursor to other emotions you may end up experiencing from your stressor; anger, confusion, anxiety, and irritation.

If you notice your creativity is down a notch, try relaxing both your mind and body before you are taken over by stress and creativity takes a bigger dive. Sit back and take several deep breaths to slow your heart rate or to just loosen up your muscles. Find a way to get to a happy place, either by playing with a stress toy or doing something you enjoy that can take your mind away from the stress, such as gardening or some kind of craft. Once you work your way out of stress and back into a calmer frame of mind, your creativity may be able to flow much better and you will be ready to make something amazing.