So I'm getting a jump on the 3 words I've chosen to help carry me and my various pursuits through 2011.  I wrote about this in Nick Venturella Media 2011 plans.

Part of the reason I'm jumping the gun (not waiting until 2011 actually begins to start this) is because I'm excited about the new tool I got over the holidays - an iPhone 4. 

Create is one of my 3 words, so I'm making an effort to create more artistic stuff - music, art, writing - as often as I can.

I'm excited to discover what I can do with the iPhone as a creative as well as communications tool.  In my experience it's best to roll with that excitement and enthusiasm, that's when spontaneous creativity tends to happen.

Being a visual artist (among other things), the first app I purchased was Brushes, which allows you to use your finger as a paintbrush on the iPhone screen.  It's great for creating small impressionistic-like little paintings, like the one shown in this post.  I plan to share more artistic creations throughout 2011.

So why is this important?  In business, and in life, it's important to stretch your creative abilities.  Sometimes fun creative activities - even those that sometimes feel like they have nothing to do with business - can actually help foster your business creativity, clearing your mind enough to allow it to be open to innovative ideas and solutions that you may not have otherwise thought of.  Being inspired breeds inspiration.

Be sure to take some time to have fun creating something on a regular basis.  Creativity is a muscle that needs exercise to stay in shape.

posted by Nick Venturella