Schedules/Routines and Creativity

[Xenolar]

I once heard someone oddly suggest that by following a strict schedule, this individual's creativity is strengthened. At first, I thought this was a bit ridiculous.

But now, I reconsider. If one has a strict routine, eventually one will complete tedious, mundane tasks automatically, thus allowing oneself more time to ponder and daydream, rather than focus on the boring exterior.

What are your opinions on this?

[Danisty]

It makes perfect sense to me, but I'm really good and turning my creativity on and off.

[lowbrass]

Makes sense to me. Might not for people who have a penchant for procrastination, however, who would consider their creativity enabled by the freedom from the lack of strictness or scheduling.

[rwyatt365]

IT makes sense, but it wouldn't work for me. I find myself stifled by strict schedules and mindless routine. The only "creativity" sparked is finding "creative" ways of getting out of the situation ASAP!

[PortInStorm]

Nope, neurologically speaking, your brain remains plastic for a lifetime, but if you are exposed to the same things day after day, a strong pathway becomes established (the author, Norman Dodge?, said it was like skiing the same path down a mountain again and again- you can ski a different path whenever, but it becomes harder and harder to do so with each run of the old path). Only when you encounter something that's new and really challenges you does your brain 'grow', and it's those occasions when the "feel-good" neurotransmitters are released. Stagnation/strict routine literally atrophies the brain.

[Xenolar]

Nope, neurologically speaking, your brain remains plastic for a lifetime, but if you are exposed to the same things day after day, a strong pathway becomes established (the author, Norman Dodge?, said it was like skiing the same path down a mountain again and again- you can ski a different path whenever, but it becomes harder and harder to do so with each run of the old path). Only when you encounter something that's new and really challenges you does your brain 'grow', and it's those occasions when the "feel-good" neurotransmitters are released. Stagnation/strict routine literally atrophies the brain.

Indeed, this makes sense.

I suppose my theory goes down the drain. Oh well. More to come.

I absolutely HATE strict routines. Pencil-pushing tedium could literally drive me insane.

[yondyr]

I've nailed down as many of lifes variables as I can, for a sense of security in order to leave as much time as possible to turn to interests, acitivities that draw me. If that means no social life, working only one day a week, just one well organized trip to town per week.. then I do live a structured routine life..but oh those other five days off are mine, all mine.

[Melotch]

I've nailed down as many of lifes variables as I can, for a sense of security in order to leave as much time as possible to turn to interests, acitivities that draw me.
I couldn't have phrased it better. :)
I've expended my creativity making the brainless tasks as efficient as possible, and I do get a sense of comfort out of doing that every day. As for the other things in life, I like to have many different, interesting things to do, but there needs to be some things that stay the same for me to have a steady frame of mind long-term.