The ebb and flow of ideas

Everybody has creative highs and not so creative lows. Some weeks, I feel like I can take over the world with all the great ideas spinning through my head. Other weeks, I wonder how I'll ever get a good idea again. This is natural, and happens to everyone.

Even though the lows can feel - well - low, both of these times can actually be quite productive.

Here are a few tips for you to maximize your highs and your lows.

When you're on, save up for a rainy day.

• Do as much as you can. If you blog, for example, write several posts and set some for future publication, or just save them for days when you can't think of anything.
• Keep a pad for ideas. Write everything down, even if you can't work on it right away.
• Notice what you're doing and what's going on around you. Many times it can help pull us out of a creative slump when we replicate the scenarios and events from times we are most creative.

When you're off, take care of business.

• Don't be hard on yourself. Remember that everyone has ups and downs and don't engage in negative self talk, or "stinkin' thinkin'" as Paula Deen would say.
• Catch up on mundane stuff that doesn't require creativity. Organize your files, pay your bills, finish those boring reports.
• Indulge in activities you enjoy or try something new. It might snap you out of your slump.
• Piggy back off of the creativity of others - read, listen to a podcast, or attend a presentation.
• Focus on the execution of an idea you've already worked out.
• Re-connect with friends and colleagues you haven't talked to in a while.