Lots of jobs in the marketing profession rely on creativity, artistic flair and thinking outside the box.

That’s why it is so important to both your current role and future employability to foster your creativity, let it grow and develop.

For copywriters, maintaining a steady stream of fresh ideas can be a challenge, especially when you are trying to come up with new topics for blogs and articles.

So, here are five no-nonsense tips to keep those creative juices flowing:

1. 1. Embrace a diverse range of inspirations
2. 2. Create a stimulating work environment
3. 3. Establish a routine
4. 4. Embrace creative exercises
5. 5. Immerse yourself in great works

1. Embrace a diverse range of inspirations

Your inspiration doesn’t have to come exclusively from marketing sources.

You should dig into literature, art, music, or anything outside your comfort zone that might give you the space to develop original ideas.

I can’t tell you how many times I’ve come up with an idea for an article whilst reading something totally unrelated to the topic!

2. Create a stimulating work environment

Clear the clutter from your desk, office or room and let natural light flood your workspace.

Throw in some plants, inspiring artwork, and comfy furniture if you like, but I have always found that a tidy desk acts like a clean slate – a great place to start from.

I would also invest in some quality equipment, especially computer monitors, desk lamps and even a standing desk, if it’s in your budget.

The easier it is to start writing, the less barriers to entry, the more steadily the creative juices will flow.

3. Establish a routine

Thinking creatively is all well and good but I have found great success when using specific moments of my day to brainstorm.

I wake up early to go to the gym, then sit at my desk and brainstorm blog ideas before I eat my breakfast.

By doing so, I find that my brain has been untouched by the stress of the day and I can encourage an open dialogue with myself for writing.

For some of you, late nights might work better instead.

Also, maybe you should try yoga or meditation to give yourself space to think.

4. Embrace creative exercises

I enjoy mind mapping, word association, and visualisation when I am writing.

I am a natural day dreamer and I’ve learned to embrace that creative opportunity.

Exercise itself – running, gym, swimming, and so on – can really help to give your mind an opportunity for a break and a reset of the creative juices.

5. Immerse yourself in great works

This is probably my favourite tip of all because I am a bit of a literature nerd.

But, as copywriters, I think we often forget the lessons of great 20^th century authors like Orwell, Hemingway, Bukowski, and Thompson who have influenced how all of us write today.

Read these legends. I implore you!

If nothing else, those I’ve listed will give you an insight into how to write with brevity, clarity and how to develop your skills.

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