In the payments industry, creativity and original thinking are essential. It's common knowledge that if your products resemble your competitors' offerings, you need innovative ways to promote and sell them. It's also known that creativity usually can't be summoned on command. But I've found some ways to cultivate creativity when I need inspiration. The following suggestions might help spark your creativity, too:
You might think you're too busy for a vacation, but even a short break can do wonders. Consider a day trip to a nearby town or become a tourist in your own city by visiting local museums and attractions. The key is to change your routine and environment, leaving your cell phone behind to fully disconnect.
Attend a trade show, join a networking group or register for a seminar. Engaging with others, especially those in the same industry, can generate new ideas and spark creativity. Conversations and interactions can provide fresh perspectives and potentially lead to new sales opportunities.
Collaborate with a trusted colleague or peer to discuss your ideas, even if they aren't fully formed. This process of unfiltered brainstorming can lead to unexpected, viable concepts. Don’t worry about sounding foolish—let the ideas flow freely.
Keep a file of things that catch your eye. Save magazine ads, jot down intriguing phrases, and note anything that stands out, even if it's unrelated to payments. These collected pieces can inspire future projects.
Try to view situations from the perspective of your customers, competitors or peers. Consider how they might approach a challenge and what their priorities would be. This can lead to new strategies and insights.
When seeking new ideas, persistence is key. The more ideas you generate, the greater the chance of finding great ones. When you're feeling uninspired, you really can reignite your creativity. Never give up on the quest. 
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