Creativity is not genetically encoded. Anyone can learn to think creatively. The key is to use both the left and right hemispheres of the brain: logical and intuitive, respectively.
Start by immersing yourself in a problem. Use the logical left side of your brain to understand what you know about the topic.
Then switch to the right side by distancing yourself from the issue and mulling over the information. Exercise is a good way to access the visual nature of the right hemisphere.
It often leads to an aha! moment where you see a new solution. Then switch back to the left hemisphere to challenge your creative breakthrough with rational thinking.
(Adapted from “How to Think Creatively” by Tony Schwartz.)
