FollowAs a small business coach, I specialize in helping people in the promotional products industry shorten the learning curve and boost their sales quickly.
One of the frequent challenges I hear from my coaching clients is, “I need some new ideas, I’m stuck and I’m not very creative.” If that sounds like you, read on…
This is a unique industry in which creativity is a valued part of our everyday existence. Yet all of us, myself included, sometimes experience those mental blocks where no matter how hard we try, we can’t generate a new or creative solution.
Whether you’re working on new ideas for a current client, looking for innovative ways to generate business, or facing a challenging workplace problem, fresh creative thinking can help you achieve your objectives more quickly. Studies have shown that all of us have the ability to be creative thinkers. Given the proper stimulation those ideas will flow!
Do you need a breakthrough? Here are six smart ways to get your creative juices flowing:
1. Take a Break
This may sound counterintuitive, but sometimes the most productive thing to do is step away from the problem in order to move closer to a solution. Go for a long walk, read a book, work out at the gym, take a shower; do something that takes you away from the challenging task. Anything to clear your head and get a fresh perspective.
2. Keep An Idea Journal
I like to carry a notepad with me at all times. Some of my most creative ideas come when I’m miles from the office, both literally and figuratively. I may be sitting in the dentist’s office waiting room or stuck in traffic, but when inspiration hits I have my notepad and pen with me to record my thoughts. I also keep a notepad on my night table for middle of the night inspirations.
3. Ask For Help
Just about every morning I start my day by going to my local fitness club for exercise. If I’m stuck for a creative solution, I share my challenge with a workout buddy. I’m sure you’ve heard the old adage “two heads are better than one”. Some of my most creative ideas and solutions to my challenges were the result of my morning conversations. You can also get help with your challenges by joining an email support forum, like the one I faciilitate, for promotional products professionals.
4. Sleep On It
This is a technique I learned many years ago. Before I go to bed, I focus my attention on a problem I want to solve. This is different than worrying about it. I just say to myself, ” I need help with X.” This technique allows the challenge to be planted and managed in the subconscious mind.
5. Use Technology
Consult supplier websites. They are great sources of creative ideas. Many have case histories you can easily duplicate with your own clients. Bookmark your favorites. Viewing them on a regular basis can lead to some very creative ideas. Industry research sites such as ESP, SAGE and PMDM can also help when you’re stuck. PPAI has a wonderful tool on it’s web site called “Build A Promotion”, which can help with ideas. And doing a Google search with some key words is bound to turn up some ideas you may have never thought about.
6. Listen To Your Intuition
As we grow older we frequently get further away from what we know is instinctively true or right. If your instincts are telling you something, listen! It could be to “walk away” from a difficult situation or to call a client because you instinctively know they need your help. The important thing is to listen to those instincts. They are giving you some important information!
This month’s question: What do you do when you’re feeling stuck and need some new ideas? Share your ideas with our readers and I’ll send you a free special report. Just click in the comments box below.
© 2006 – 2013 Rosalie Marcus
Want expert help growing your promotional products business? Click the link to preview the programs and products created to quickly and easily grow your promotional products sales.
Not sure which program or product is right for you? Contact Rosalie for a brief, no obligation, personal consultation. Reach her at Rosalie@promobizcoach.com
Rosalie Marcus, The Promo Biz Coach ™ is a promotional products business expert, coach and speaker. Combining her skills and years of experience in promotional sales, she helps her clients sell more at higher profit margins and dramatically increase their incomes! Get a FREE special report: 10 Big Mistakes Promotional Professionals Make and How to Avoid Them and a FREE Skyrocket Your Sales audio download at http://www.promobizcoach.
Reach her at Rosalie@promobizcoach.com or 215-572-6766.
WANT TO USE THIS ARTICLE IN YOUR EZINE OR WEB SITE? You may provided it is unedited, and that the copyright, bio blurb, and contact information above appears with each article. Articles appearing on the web must provide a hyperlink to our web site. Please provide us with a courtesy copy of the print or email issue containing the article, or the URL of any article posted to the web.
