Training the Brain for More ‘Aha’ Moments

Amy Taylor August 27, 2013

All of us, regardless of age, gender, and occupation, are in need of creativity to find better solutions for problems and come up with good decisions in life. Creativity also inspires us to look at things differently and develop great ideas that can lead us to success.

Don’t be sad if you think you’re lacking in creativity. It is possible to train your brain to develop this essential mental tool. Here are some things you can do to experience more ‘aha!’ moments in life!

Travel.

Apart from the fun and excitement it brings, travelling also provides a great opportunity for you to become creative. You can get inspired by travelling practically anywhere – to the park, to a new coffee shop or recreational area in town, or to a different country. It allows you to see and experience new things which can trigger you to create new insights.

Get curious as a cat.

Curiosity and creativity goes hand in hand. Curiosity is a mental driver. It drives us to learn more, work harder, and keep moving forward. Lack of insight usually comes from a disengaged and uninterested mind. Try to be more curious on things – even those that appear so ordinary. Begin by asking questions – the more the better, and take time to find the answers. Continue this process and you will see how it can spark the “aha” moment you’ve been waiting for!

Look closely at coincidences.

We often ignore coincidences because often, they are meaningless. But according to Gary Klein, author of Seeing What Others Don’t: the Remarkable Ways We Gain Insights, looking for coincidences is a powerful way to make surprising connections.

Let your mind wander.

According to a 2012 study by the University of Wisconsin and the Max Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain Science, the brain is in an active state when daydreaming, which is why the wandering mind can stumble upon brilliant insights and sudden connections. The researchers explained that daydreaming correlates with the brain’s ability to recall information in the face of distractions. It also involves the same brain processes used when people imagine or when they tend to be creative.

Make room for contradictions.

Whilst curiosity makes us wonder, contradiction makes us doubt – giving us another opportunity to expand our views and gain more insights.

Ask “What if?”

Answering this question enables the brain to use its mental imagery, as well as its imaginative faculties. To practise this trait, try changing an element of a factual story (like those you read in newspapers). Then come up possible scenarios that will predict the outcome of your theory. This allows your brain to find new insights and come up with extraordinary ideas.

Can you think of other ways to spark creativity and gain more insights? Share your comment below.