What drives inspiration? Creativity can go a long way to boost your business—but how can you get the creative juices flowing? These tips will keep your ideas fresh and put you on the road to success

Entrepreneur, Oct, 2004

1. Power up. Take a hard look at all areas of your business. A good mental inventory should tell you what areas need the most attention. Is your sales force lagging? Are you selling a product that has become obsolete? Are you spending too much in one area and not enough in another? Is your business blazing along like a powerful, well-oiled Chrysler 300, or is it sputtering, barely making it to the next intersection? Answering questions like these will help you outline your goals--a crucial first step toward achieving long-term growth.

2. Let your goals guide you. Once you've determined what areas need improvement, establish an action plan. Sit down and brainstorm, writing down any ideas that come to mind, even the ones that don't seem viable. Whatever you do, don't wait for your competitors to pull ahead of you with a creative ad campaign, business strategy or new product idea. Make a point to brainstorm on a regular basis and dream up knockout ideas of your own, so you can stay out in front of the pack.

3. Tap into your employees' ideas. Your employees can be a rich source of creative ideas--if only you ask. Employees who might not otherwise step forward will gladly do so if you show a genuine interest in hearing their ideas. Not only is this a cost-effective business strategy, but it also fosters positive morale among your workers. Plus, it might just lead you to a brilliant new marketing strategy, product enhancement or just plain better way to do business.

4. Tap into your customers' ideas. The same goes for your customers. If you simply ask them what they're looking for in a product or service, creative inspiration will be just around the corner. Even dissatisfied customers can help you improve your business by pointing out what aspects of your product or service need enhancement.

5. Technology. A business that's well-equipped with up to-date technology is a business that's well-equipped to meet its goals. Without tools like wireless technology and Internet access, you could be depriving yourself of new information and communications that can inspire your creativity and keep you miles ahead of the competition.

6. Beat burnout. If you're getting caught up in the day-to-day stress of running your company, you're sure to hit the wall when it comes to dreaming up creative ways to grow your business. When burnout creeps in, hop into your Chrysler 300, and let the open road be your creative inspiration for brainstorming new business ideas. There's nothing like a quiet road to help you relax and get the creative juices flowing.