Need a reason to get out of yourself?

Do it to be more creative.

A recent Scientific American article describes studies proving psychological distance increases creativity. I am always on the lookout for moments when science confirms the wisdom that artists have shared for generations, and this is one of those moments.

The age old wisdom about creativity:
Take a walk in another’s shoes. Travel. Distance yourself from a problem and solutions will appear. Take a walk away from your poem and the closing stanza writes itself. Change your perspective and become inspired.

The new science:
Psychological distance, which can  refer to a difference in space, time, and identity, as well as moments when we are imagining a solution to a problem that we don’t think we will ever have to face in reality, helps participants solve problems and generate more ideas.

So, if you are trying to solve a problem or create something, think about taking a step back, physically or mentally. Imagine how you would solve the problem if you were someone else. Try to compose the song in another musician’s style. Think of how a future version of yourself might create a solution.

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