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A creative mindset is not the same as an artistic skill; creativity is the mental phenomenon of getting ideas and finding solutions. It comes out of the blue, some say is divinely guided. If you've ever had a great idea, you know what the exhilaration feels like.

Holding a creative mindset is key, especially in this era of rapid change and growth. Here are 5 things you can start doing today to move your mindset over to the side of creativity and unlimited possibility. When you open your mind to innovation and spontaneity, they'll become your daily companions and reward you both in business and in life.

1. Practice gratitude daily. Oprah Winfrey, no slouch in the success department, credits her daily gratitude list as one of her secrets to success. If you're ready to write this off as a fluffy self-help indulgence, then think again. Shifting to a mindset of gratitude opens your eyes to look for new things, namely the good in your everyday surroundings. It's problem solving at its best- imagine being stranded with a flat tire in the rain and you suddenly ask yourself what you could POSSIBLY be grateful for. Suddenly, everyday items become lifesavers and the simple fact that you're safe and alive floats to the heart of your awareness.

2. Add a big dose of appreciation. Appreciation is the next step in the gratitude process. It's when you open your heart to the greatness of someone or something. I advise my audiences to find something homely or ugly and find things to appreciate about it. Whether it's the fact that someone bothered to make it, or that the colors are pleasing to someone somewhere, EVERYTHING has at least a tiny bit to appreciate about it. This creative exercise stretches into all aspects of business and life. Try it and see!

3. Take time out Albert Einstein's theory of relativity was not discovered when he was crunching numbers. He claimed it dropped into his head while he was listening to music. Working through a problem is not the best way to find a creative solution. Trust that the answers are coming to you; sitting in a workspace isn't necessarily the best place for that to happen. Get up, get out, and maybe your big break is outside waiting for you.

4. Zap your limiting beliefs A limiting belief is anyplace in life where you throw your hands up in the air and exclaim, "That's just the way things are!" You may hold the belief that your expertise is of no use to the world, or that you have nothing valid to contribute to the masses. You may hold the belief that you aren't ready for something or that you need permission to stride to your next level of accomplishment. Put those beliefs aside, recognize them as illusions and watch things take off for you. This will unlock your creative blocks for sure.

5. Surround yourself with winners

I advise all of my clients to create a "Personal Board of Directors", people who serve as advisors, brainstorm partners, and mentors. A member of your personal board must be someone you trust, respect, and who holds your best interests in mind. (I call them your cheerleaders). Now that you've activated your creativity, you'll need good people to run these great ideas past.

The creative mindset rewards you greatly in both business and in life. It exercises your brain, invites new ideas and possibilities, and helps you come up with original, fresh ideas that will help you stand out from the crowd. Invite creativity to become your daily companion and watch the opportunities unfold before you.