If you are a pet owner, you are aware of the uncanny way your cat seems to know when you are about to open the can of cat food, or the way your dog knows when you are getting the leash for a walk. Pavlov’s dog knew that the sound of the bell meant food was on its way and would begin salivating just at the sound. In psychology, this is called classical conditioning and, I hate to break it to you, but you and Pavlov’s dog have a lot in common. The good news is, now you have a wonderful opportunity to train yourself to be creative when you want to be!

You may have heard that some artists and athletes have rituals they employ when they are being called upon to perform. This is the same principle we are working with. Our environment and our rituals become associated with the activity we are engaging in. I was accidentally conditioned in childhood when we did our Sunday house cleaning while my dad played his stereo. To this day, whenever I hear Marvin Gaye’s “What’s Goin’ On?” I get a nearly uncontrollable urge to clean the kitchen. In fact, when I need to clean and am not in the mood, I put Marvin on the stereo and instantly I become the White Tornado.

You can do exactly the same thing. Create the environment that most supports your creativity and set it up consistently. Consistency is the key here. Your brain will then associate the environment with the activity. When I write my coaching newsletter, I always begin with my cup of tea and burning incense while at the computer. In fact, I have incense going right now. This sends the signal to my brain, “Oh, it must be time for some focused writing now,” and the process begins to flow almost effortlessly as a result.

Speaking of cleaning… move your body, use your hands!

I can’t emphasize this enough. Just as I said earlier that you are always taking in information from your environment that can be used as creative grist for the mill, it’s important to realize that your entire body is taking in information. You are taking in smells, sounds, physical sensations, tastes, just as you are taking in visual input and information. Creative processing takes place on a whole body level. Watch people’s hands while they talk if you don’t believe me. Even if your creative mode of expression does not involve your entire body, your creative processing will be enhanced by the use of your body. Simple repetitive tasks, like weeding the garden, ironing, walking, riding your bike and washing dishes can be wonderful focusing tools. Cleaning closets is nearly a silver bullet for removing creative blocks. Don’t be deceived. These activities are not procrastination when you have developed the relationship with your creative self which allows you to trust that internal processing is going on. You just have to keep your promise to show up and give it an outlet later. Don’t forget that those rituals to coax it out will help that process considerably!

Next up: Creative Risks, Creative Gambles and Critics