Some middle and high schools in my community recently received government grants for a program called STEAM. Most of us are familiar with STEM, science, technology, engineering and mathematics, but STEAM was new to me. STEAM adds the “A”, which stands for the Arts. I immediately thought “how brilliant!” Of course the arts and creativity should not be neglected in such technical fields! So many of us who are in the STEM world forget how important it is to nurture the right side of our brain. The arts and our creativity is what help us be the best problem solvers.
STEM + ART = STEAM
Growing up, art was a huge passion of mine. I loved and pursued pottery, dance and acting for many years in my childhood and even had a job in college at the art studio on our student center. My mother’s godmother was a painter by profession and she always encouraged me in my art. I remember her specifically telling me to “never stop doing art”. Throughout the years, I have had dry spells without doing art, but whenever I come back to it I feel alive and a part of my childhood comes back to me.
Tapping into our creative side helps us become better at our profession, better at problem solving. And isn’t that what being an engineer is about?
Many of my left-brained engineering friends have found beautiful ways to tap into their creativity such as the fine arts, crafts, sewing, photography, and pottery. There is something special about giving up your left-brain to let the right take the reins for a bit.
Hear are some ways to tap into your creativity
- Take some time to do nothing! Our best ideas can’t generated while we are talking or being busy, they are done in solitude. In fact, that is why so many people have their best ideas in the shower! Take time out to think and just be.
- Design a creative work and home environment that appeals to all senses.
- Sight – Declutter and let light into your environment.
- Sound – Play soft music or nature sounds.
- Touch – Have multiple textures that comfort.
- Taste – Bake and cook with your family.
- Smell – Use candles, flowers, essential oils, baking to make your home or workspace smell beautiful.
- Change your routine. Doing something out of the ordinary allows you to see an entire new perspective. Drive a new way to work, park in a different parking spot, try a new restaurant, or make a meal you haven’t tried before. Make it a goal to do one new change a week.
- Collect ideas for inspiration. Read interesting articles or books and get your fair share of fine art appreciation. Surrounding your mind with creative ideas and images and sounds will foster the right side of your brain.
- Pursue art. Take an art class, dance class, or any other class that helps unleash your inner creative.
Our world needs your creativity! A book I recently purchased was “Be Your Finest Art” by Joanne Miller and Dorsey McHugh. This is a great book to awaken your creative self.
Also, for an interesting resource on STEAM, check out http://stemtosteam.org/.
What is your creative outlet? If you don’t have one, what is your commitment to make one for yourself?