How to Get New Ideas Quickly and Easily

Want to turn on your creativity and get new ideas for your home or business? Some people just naturally seem to come up with fresh ideas. If you're not one of those people, you need to have a system for opening up your creative channels. Here's how to get new ideas.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Learn to question.
   
   Whenever you're looking for new ideas, learn to question everything. Ask yourself the question, "What if?" This one question can help to open up your mind and unleash a creative storm of new ideas. Be sure to write down the ideas that come to mind so you'll remember them.
2. Expose yourself to lots of new ideas.
   
   Don't always stick to your routine if you want to get new ideas. Find ways to expose yourself to new situations and concepts. Get out and meet new people, drive a different way to work, shop at a store you've never been in, and read magazines on topics you've never explored. Novelty is the lifeblood of new ideas.
3. Keep and idea journal.
   
   Carry a book around with you wherever you go. When a new idea enters your mind, write it down without censoring it. You can also substitute a tape recorder for an idea journal if that's more your style. Just be sure to keep it with you at all times. You never know when a new idea will strike.
4. Try to relate two different words.
   
   This is a fun way to come up with new ideas. Randomly pick two words from the dictionary. Write them down and try to twist the two words into a new idea. This can also be a fun way to pass the time and a great way to get new ideas for articles to write.
5. Tap into the power of your subconscious.
   
   Write down your dreams and the seemingly random thoughts that come to you during the day. There's no need to analyze them or think about them too much at the time. Just record them so you can use them to get new ideas later.
6. Keep a positive, open mind.
   
   To get new ideas, you have to keep a positive, open mind. Imagine yourself to be a creative person with fresh ideas and thoughts and you'll become what you think you are.