How to Get a Great Idea

Posted by Jim_Daly May 26, 2011

Have you ever wondered where great ideas come from?

The simple answer to that question is, of course, people. But why do some people get them and others don't?

If you ask me, God is constantly planting thoughts in our minds, or permitting us to cross paths with someone who will inevitably trigger a thought or do something that sets off the spark of creative energy inside of us. But what about those seemingly "dull days" when you're feeling tired and uninspired?  How can you turn over the engine when the tank is almost empty?

According to some new research out of Johns Hopkins, the key may be as simple as exercise.

From yesterday's NY Times:

"Exercise has been found to jump-start neurogenesis, or the creation of new brain cells, especially in the dentate gyrus, said Dr. Michael Yassa, an assistant professor of psychological and brain sciences at Johns Hopkins.

The dentate gyrus is located within the brain's hippocampus, the section of the brain that controls learning and thinking.

So if you're looking for a little mental inspiration or want to come up with the world's next multi-million-dollar invention, lace up those shoes and head out for a walk, bike ride or a run. Get the blood circulating and shake the cobwebs free. Speed isn't important. It's the motion that matters. The winner is the one who gets out there on a consistent basis, not the flash-in-the-pan one-week workout warrior.

"Crumbling is not an instant's act," wrote Emily Dickinson. She was right. Regardless of how old or young you are, realize the Lord made us for action. Life is not a spectator sport.

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