A Creative Oasis

Marketers thrive on being creative.

The problem is life can get in the way of creativity. There are calls, meeting and bills to pay. And don't forget the constant stream of email that needs attention.

One way I have been able to keep being creative is by creating a "Creative Oasis". A space where I tend more naturally to be creative. I took this photo out of the window of the Museum of Modern Art in New York City. Someone had created their own creative oasis.

My special space includes:

1 - Some plants.

2 - All the tools I need. For me, that includes a pen, paper and a computer.

3 - Unobtrusive background music. Or sometimes silence.

4- Some art.

5 - Some tidiness. Order for me helps me to focus.

6 - I like the outdoors so sometimes it includes some of that.

Of course true power comes when I can be creative outside of that area. For example, I am working hard on "being alone and creative" when I am in a crowd like on the train or airplane.

I also have activities that I deliberately add to my habits that help spur my creativity. Some of the activities that spur my creativity include:

1 - Running.

2 - Hiking. Especially in nature.

3 - Cycling - again, especially in scenic areas.

4 - Reading. Often I get ideas that are unrelated to the topics I am reading about.

5 - Yoga.

6 - Meditation (note to self - add more of this).

What space can you create to be more creative? What activities can you do more of to add to your creativity?

Jim Estill

Tags: Marketing Talent