This. Stops. Now.
Lots of thoughts, including about creativity...
I've been publishing this newsletter off and on since April 2024. It's been fun, but I'm embarrassed that often there is a gap between new issues.
That. Stops. Now.
But...
The theme is how things have changed since I wrote 5 Bucks a Day in 2006, about the strategy that enabled me to erase over 300K in credit card debt and then consistently bank a 6-figure (USD) annual income.
As I said at the outset, things have changed.
What I did then would not work now.
Back then I told folks that online marketing was in the wild, wild west era. It was indeed.
Google was dominant, and I used it to advantage.
Affiliate marketing was a mere shell of what it is now.
I was obsessed with Google page rank on my web pages. Now, I don't remember the last time I worried about that, or even how to check it anymore.
Social media was hardly even a "thing", much less something everyone spends way too much time on now (my opinion only, if you love it, who am I to judge?).
The Warrior Forum was where all the hip marketers hung out. Then the owner sold it, and now I don't know the last time I visited there, or posted there.
Memories. Good times.
But I digress... I said the long gaps between issues of this newsletter stops now, but I also said but...
A longtime dream of mine was to create a repository of written articles about the things that online marketers really need to know.
There is a lot.
Obviously some things are more important than others, but also some beginners, even some fairly experienced, marketers are lacking in knowledge in some areas.
That. Also. Stops. Now.
In coming days, weeks, months, years, I will share with you information on critical areas that all online marketers need to know.
Areas like list building, email marketing, affiliate marketing, idea generation, content and product creation, traffic generation, copywriting, mindset, and much more.
Every newsletter issue will have a free section as well as a bonus section that is unlocked for paid subscribers.
Paid subscribers get more, of course, but free subscribers get a lot as well.
So I hope you'll continue to open and read what I write.
It's all based on my experience, which is many more years than I want to admit to. I hope to get it all out there before something happens that makes me stop writing.
Part of life nowadays is A.I., and you'll notice that I'm going to use A.I. to make my writing be more prolific.
Please don't assume that makes what you read any less valuable.
It's like traveling in a car or bus or plane.
You can usually get from point A to point B by foot (unless there are obstacles in the way, but you get there faster if you are assisted by a motorized device.
So yes, I'll use A.I., but I'll be driving the bus and make sure the content meets your needs.
That being said, I want to share some tips about idea generation and creativity.
Three Ways to Spark Creative Ideas Anytime, Anywhere
Creativity is often seen as this elusive, magical force that comes and goes as it pleases. But the truth is, creativity isn’t just something you wait for—it’s something you can actively invite into your life. Whether you're brainstorming for your next online marketing campaign, writing content, or solving a problem, having techniques to spark creativity on demand can make all the difference.
In this article, we’ll break down three tried-and-true ways to ignite your creative ideas anytime, anywhere. Best of all, these methods are simple, actionable, and beginner-friendly. Whether you're new to online marketing or just looking to sharpen your creative edge, these strategies will help you turn "blank page syndrome" into a steady stream of inspired ideas.
1. Change Your Environment to Shift Your Perspective
Have you ever noticed how stepping into a new space can make your mind feel refreshed? Changing your environment is one of the easiest ways to spark creativity because it shakes up your routine and introduces you to new stimuli.
Here’s how you can use this technique effectively:
a. Go for a Walk
This might sound cliché, but it works wonders. When you’re stuck, a simple walk around your neighborhood or a nearby park can clear mental clutter. Studies have shown that walking, especially in nature, boosts creative thinking by allowing your mind to wander. The movement helps to unstick your thoughts, and the scenery can provide unexpected inspiration.
For example, if you’re trying to come up with a catchy slogan for your online marketing campaign, observing a street sign, overhearing a snippet of conversation, or noticing colors in the environment can spark an idea.
b. Rearrange Your Workspace
If walking isn’t an option, even small changes to your immediate environment can help. Rearrange your desk, add some inspiring objects like plants or motivational quotes, or even work from a different spot in your home. A fresh environment leads to fresh thoughts.
c. Visit a New Space
If you’re feeling bold, try working in an entirely new location. Coffee shops, libraries, or coworking spaces can offer new energy and perspectives. Different surroundings bring different vibes—and sometimes, all it takes is a change in scenery to unlock your creativity.
2. Use Creative Prompts and Tools to Jumpstart Your Brain
If you’re staring at a blank page or screen and feeling stuck, prompts and tools can give your creativity the nudge it needs. The trick is to start small and let your ideas snowball.
a. Ask “What If” Questions
One of the easiest ways to think creatively is to ask "What if?" questions about your topic. For instance:
What if I had no budget constraints—how would I approach this campaign?
What if I had to explain this idea to a 10-year-old?
What if I turned this into a game or a story?
These questions reframe the problem and invite you to think outside the box.
b. Mind Mapping
Mind mapping is a simple yet powerful way to organize your thoughts and generate connections between ideas. Start by writing your main topic (e.g., "Creative Marketing Ideas") in the center of a blank page. Then, branch out with related subtopics, and keep expanding. Don’t censor yourself—this is a brainstorming exercise, so let your ideas flow freely.
For example:
Write "social media marketing" as a branch, then explore posts like polls, challenges, or giveaways.
Write “email campaigns” and think about personalized subject lines or interactive email content.
c. Leverage Online Tools
There are countless tools available to help inspire creativity:
AnswerThePublic: This tool shows you what people are searching for online, giving you insights into potential content ideas.
Canva Mood Boards: Create visual inspiration boards based on your campaign theme or audience.
AI Writing Tools: Tools like ChatGPT (yes, me!) can provide creative suggestions, outlines, or even help you brainstorm ideas.
Using these tools, you can quickly overcome the overwhelm of starting from scratch and create a foundation to build on.
3. Tap Into the Power of Collaboration and Feedback
Creativity doesn’t have to be a solo endeavor. In fact, some of the best ideas come from bouncing thoughts off other people. Collaboration and feedback are invaluable tools for sparking creativity, especially in online marketing where fresh perspectives can make your content stand out.
a. Brainstorm With Your Team
If you have colleagues or friends in the industry, set up a brainstorming session. The key is to create a judgment-free zone where all ideas—no matter how wild—are welcome. Sometimes, the most "out there" suggestion can inspire a practical solution.
For example, if you’re brainstorming for a product launch, someone might suggest a quirky idea like "a virtual treasure hunt." Even if you don’t use that exact concept, it could evolve into something like an interactive social media challenge.
b. Crowdsource Ideas
If you’re working solo or want a broader perspective, tap into your audience or community for ideas. Social media polls, Q&A sessions, or open-ended questions can provide insights and inspiration. Not only will this spark your creativity, but it will also help you understand what your audience wants.
For instance, if you’re stuck on what type of content to create, you could post a poll asking, "Would you prefer a how-to guide, a list of tools, or a case study?" Their responses can guide your brainstorming process.
c. Get Feedback Early
Sometimes, you don’t need to come up with an entirely new idea—you just need to refine an existing one. Sharing your rough ideas with a trusted friend, colleague, or mentor can help you identify gaps or opportunities you hadn’t considered. Constructive feedback can push your thinking in new directions.
Bringing It All Together
Creativity isn’t reserved for artists or professional writers—it’s a skill anyone can develop with the right techniques. By changing your environment, using prompts and tools, and collaborating with others, you can spark creative ideas anytime, anywhere.
The next time you’re stuck, remember:
Shake things up by stepping into a new environment or rearranging what’s around you.
Use prompts, mind mapping, and online tools to get your thoughts flowing.
Lean on collaboration and feedback to refine and expand your ideas.
Creativity is like a muscle—the more you practice sparking ideas, the easier it becomes. So, give these tips a try and watch your creative confidence grow. Who knows? Your next big marketing breakthrough might be just one walk, question, or brainstorming session away.
Happy creating!ng said, I want to share some tips about idea generation and creativity.
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Bonus for paid subscribers this issue. If you’re not one already, upgrading gets you not only this bonus, but access to the entire archives, each issue has its own bonus content, as will issues going forward. Diamond Plan members get something really cool and valuable.
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