The way we see the world is affected by both the physical
and the meta-physical realms. Real change of perspective requires concerted
effort in both areas.
Jeff DeGraff recently wrote an article called “Innovation
Isn’t Change” that I enjoyed: (http://www.huffingtonpost.com/jeff-degraff/innovation-isnt-change_b_5432203.html)
I loved his opening point. He said, “Change is moving AWAY
from something; innovation is moving TOWARDS something.” This is a subtle, yet
profound difference.
Physical
Innovation
One physical way I encourage creativity
and innovation is through music. As a Music Major at BYU, and playing with
“Synthesis” jazz band, I learned about improvisation. You must study and
understand the chord structure, and certain basic rules of progression that are
not too restrictive. Then, you have to practice, experiment, listen to what
others are doing, and be willing to try new ideas.
I call it “doodling.”
Over the years, I have learned to play the various
saxophones, the clarinets, the flutes, the piano, and am learning to play the
Cello. Most recently, I took a class to learn how to make Native American
Flutes. Now, I enjoy “doodling” on them and recording these meandering melodies
for posterity.
Once you find your creative outlet, do what it takes to
develop that into a talent that can enrich the lives of others, and bring great
fulfillment to yourself as well.
This is the first doorway. Opening it actually triggers the path to open a second and potentially more powerful entrance: the Doorway to the Mind.
Meta-physical
Innovation
I once heard the great idea to keep a pad of paper and a pen
handy near the bedside. Then, when the morning of inspiration comes, or a dream
clearly explains a solution to a problem… it is easy to write down and capture
those thoughts.
An article by Jane Porter clearly explains why this can help
us tap into our subconscious. (http://www.fastcompany.com/3031227/work-smart/do-these-3-things-before-bed-to-hack-your-creativity-while-you-sleep)
Her article is called, “Do These 3 Things before Bed to Hack Your Creative
while You Sleep.”
She mentions the neuroplasticity that only happens when the
brain is relaxed enough to create new connections and neural pathways. She says
that the three-key tumbler for super-charging the creativity within each of us
is:
- Read something stimulating just before going to bed.
- Ask yourself the question you would like to resolve, then set it on the back shelf so you can sleep on it.
- Encourage lucid dreaming. Or in other words… plan to take advantage of the freedom from reality in dreams, and plan to take control.
I remember many years ago, after watching a movie about
people who could control their dreams. I was determined to be able to do the
same. I told myself before going to sleep that in the next dream I had, I would
have control and be able to fly. It was amazing that after only a few nights, I
was able to control – however briefly – the content of my dreams. Inevitably,
the sustainability of that control was short-lived.
Wouldn't it be interesting to keep a dream diary, or to
write down nightly inspiration as it is fresh in our minds? Much like “counting
our blessings” helps us to recognize just how many amazing things we have been
blessed with… Keeping a record of our waking thoughts could open doors to more
innovation, more creativity of thought, and more neuroplasticity that will
awaken and enhance our innovative abilities. I suppose you could call it
“Spiritual Doodling.”
Who’s up for change… or… er…. I mean innovation?
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