Ditch the notion that creativity is a gift bestowed upon only a chosen few. Discover the science behind creativity, and how to innovate like an artist with the power of neuroscience.
You may think of creativity as a trait some are born with – that it is something you either have or you don’t. But you would be mistaken. Creativity is an ability that can be developed, in anyone, at any age, from any background. Sure, some people, for whatever reason, have a natural inclination towards it. In others it is nurtured from a young age. Nevertheless, we all create using the same networks in our brains. Therefore, even creativity can be hacked.
What is creativity?
Creativity may seem abstract and subjective, a concept that could be endlessly debated, however, there are definitions commonly used by the scientific community in order to study it. On his podcast, Dr Andrew Huberman proposes a three part thought equation to define the term.
Creativity is (1) the art of arranging things that already exist (2) in new ways (3) to make us see ourselves, and our world, differently.
Each element is important. Something cannot be considered a creative act if it is not novel. Nor can it be seen as an expression of creativity if the ideas are combined in expected, uninteresting ways.
Truly creative acts reveal something to us, stir something within us, and expand our perspective.
Why is creativity important?
As a species, creativity has led to forward momentum, technological innovation, and scientific progress.
The Ancient Greeks revered creativity, viewing it as a gift from the gods, a spiritual avenue to connect to the divine. The Renaissance in Europe, beginning in the 14th century, was a time of incredible artistic and intellectual creativity responsible for significant advancements in the fields of art and science. Even today there are many cultures that celebrate and encourage creativity. In Japan, creativity and innovation are highly valued, illustrated by the concept of “Kaizen” which means change for the better and continuous improvement. This ethos is deeply ingrained in Japanese culture, inspiring citizens to think creatively, to continuously innovate products, processes and systems.
If you develop your own creativity, you might not be the next Mozart, or paint the modern day Mona Lisa, but you will be able to quickly and creatively solve problems, engage with your loved ones with imagination and playfulness, and bring inspiration and curiosity to your everyday experience. In order to nurture your own creative capacity, it might help to understand the neurology behind it first.
The neural circuits of creativity
The networks that work together in order for you to create.
The executive network
This network is an important part of your body’s “control system”. It is responsible for decision making, attention and planning. It helps you select thoughts by narrowing your choices so you can take action.
The default mode network
This network is your inner library that catalogs experiences and memories. Think of it as your imagination bank to draw from when you’re engaging in creative thinking.
The salience network
This network of brain regions maps how you feel internally, emotionally and physiologically, and how you feel in relation to external events happening outside of your body. The word salient means “most noticeable”, so your salience network helps your mind highlight what you should be paying attention to, whatever it deems most interesting.
Why do we feel excited by creativity?
When we encounter something truly creative, it actually changes how our neural circuits function. For instance, imagine watching an exceptionally crafted Ted Talk, one that presents familiar concepts to you in a new way. You may begin to feel captivated, transfixed, even riveted by what the speaker has to say. Your sudden enthusiasm is caused by the release of dopamine. That is what makes you feel surprised and, most importantly, excited by the chance of seeing and experiencing it again.
How can you nurture your own creativity?
Today, we will be exploring two effective methods for enhancing creativity: divergent thinking and meditation. These are just a few of the many ways that you can foster your creative abilities.
Practice divergent thinking
“Divergent thinking is the critical element for initiating the creative process.”
– Dr Andrew Huberman
In psychology, divergent thinking is defined as a form of brainstorming that helps you generate ideas through free association and wandering thinking. People well practiced in divergent thinking are able to spontaneously problem solve, producing numerous innovative ideas with swiftness and ease. In order for this to work, you need to build your memory and imagination bank. You can do this by reading books and articles on your chosen subject, as well as listening to podcasts and talks. By bolstering your knowledge beforehand, you will have more information available to you when the time comes to brainstorm.
An example of divergent thinking given by Dr Huberman is through free associating the word pencil. It’s not enough to come up with answers like blue or paper, as that isn’t particularly interesting. You’ve got to think outside of the box, like using the pencil as a means of holding the door open. This is an unusual use of the pencil that challenges our perception and opens our mind to a new possibility.
Remember the rules, in order for your idea to be creative it needs to be original, interesting and enlightening in some way.
You can practice divergent thinking through word association games, mind maps, and free writing.
Practice meditation
Meditation is an incredible tool for supporting your artistic side as it helps to create the perfect foundation for inspiration and creativity to flourish. It alleviates potential roadblocks like stress and anxiety, which make focus difficult and taking action near impossible. It quiets the voice of your tough inner critic and any feelings of self doubt or inadequacy that might cloud your vision and stifle imagination.
Meditation cultivates a presence of mind that allows you to fully show up to your creative endeavors ready to explore new possibilities and perspectives.
Use The Pantheon Method to jump start your creativity
Unlock your creativity and bring balance to your body and mind with The Pantheon Method. This powerful breathing and meditation technique combines rapid and rhythmic breathing, meditation on the seven energy centers in the body, and binaural sounds to help clear emotional blockages and cultivate creative states. Inspired by ancient yogic practices, this method is more relevant than ever in our fast-paced world. By using specific sound frequencies and headphones, you’ll be fully immersed in the experience.
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