Room to Think, Create & Be Inspired

Guest Blog Post as it appeared for A-Frame Chalets @ Mokutu

One of the challenges facing a lot of us today is the lack of “space” that is available in the day-to-day craziness that we now call life. With constant notifications vying for our attention, media oozing out of every device and expectations from colleagues, bosses, friends and families that we are always “on” it is near impossible to find the time or the location that is needed to think. And not just think, but process, create, discover and mull over new ideas.

“Creativity flourishes in solitude. With quiet, you can hear your thoughts, you can reach deep within yourself, you can focus.”

Creativity is an essential element in all forms of work and life. Without it everything becomes monotonous and tired:

Businesses start to fail due to lack of innovation and fresh inspiration.

Writers lose momentum and regular writing habits become bygone concepts.

The artists’ “muse” vanishes.

Relationships become uninteresting.

Passion becomes a long lost fantasy replaced by “the grind”.

I think you get my point.

Here’s a few thoughts to consider:

1. Recognise the need for creative space – This might be the first time you have thought about the need for constructive “time out”. Perhaps you are a professional caught up in high demand business. You need it. Believe me. When was the last time you stepped back and had a new idea to take your business forward? Build a small portion of time into your monthly schedule to escape the noise and see where it takes you.
2. Record your thoughts – Carry a notebook with you or download an app on your phone to capture the creative inspiration when it comes to you.
3. Get out of routine – Routine is such a great tool for being efficient and highly effective. However, I do find that routine limits me creatively. Drive a different way to work. Go to a different café for your morning coffee. Do something out of the ordinary. See how it unlocks the old grey matter.
4. Escape to nature – there is something so grounding about being in the middle of a great big forest. Or walking along a beach that goes on forever. Or climbing to the top of a mountain. The fresh air and the open space will loosen the chains around your creative genius and thoughts will once again be free to roam.
5. Travel – One of the greatest sources of inspiration for me is travelling. Not just to go and take photos of a lovely destination, but travel that offers a lot of “down time” where I don’t have to talk to anyone, I don’t have to be anyway, and most importantly, I am relatively unplugged from my digital networks (Yes.. ouch!).
6. Book a retreat – This is a short holiday, even a weekend away from everything that you call normal life, and switch off with the focus of pure devotion to diving into the creative pool. This doesn’t have to be expensive or a pre-organised event. All you need is a great place to stay that is out of the hustle and bustle, some great food and wine, a good pair of walking shoes (exercise fills the mind with oxygen and gets it going), and something to record all your amazing revelations (notebook or laptop).

Right now I am writing this from the deck of a stunning accommodation property on Norfolk Island in the South Pacific – A Frame Chalets @ Mokutu. This property is  the perfect location in my opinion for your next creative retreat. Great rooms, a common area that can be used for small group workshops (how about a creative retreat for your team?) a hire car for when you want to get out and about, and absolutely stunning gardens with plenty of nooks to sit and think/write. If you are needing some time out, contact them about what they can offer you for your next creative escape.

About A-Frame Chalets @ Mokutu:

Situated on the stunning South Pacific Island, Norfolk Island, Mokutu is a boutique accommodation property with exceptional panoramic views across Norfolk Island’s lush valleys and ridges to the mountains and ocean. Offering a number of different room types to suit any type of traveller, and a relaxed atmosphere helps guests to unwind. Family friendly facilities.

Conveniently located a short drive from the town centre of Burnt Pine, beautiful and historic World Heritage listed Kingston, and just a stroll away from Two Chimneys Winery, Mokutu is set on two acres of peaceful, private, sub-tropical gardens, among eight acres of private Norfolk bushland. While at Mokutu you can do as much or as little as you please – enjoy some downtime relaxing by the pool, on the yoga deck or in the gardens, or get out and about and experience the uniqueness of Norfolk Island! On-site Day Spa facilities available on request.

The property consists of 5 iconic A-Frames Chalets, 5 homely Suites and 1 stand-alone Cottage. All are self-contained with separate kitchen, dining and living areas, TV, DVD, WIFI, spacious king size beds or comfy singles, individual outdoor settings and convenient access to the garden, pool and decks. All enjoy tranquil garden and mountain views (and some offer additional panoramic views through the valleys to the ocean) while the property offers a truly peaceful, relaxing atmosphere and genuine, friendly Island hospitality.

For more information about A-Frame Chalets @ Mokutu Click HERE

BOOK YOUR HOLIDAY NOW Click here.

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