Scientists Found the #1 Creativity Killer — Here’s How to Avoid It

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Ever feel like your imagination’s hit a brick wall? You’re not alone. I used to think that my biggest creativity struggles came from a lack of talent, inspiration, or the right tools.

But then I stumbled upon research that completely changed how I approach creative work. Scientists have identified the #1 creativity killer, and it’s something we all experience: stress.

The Science Behind the Creativity Killer

A study published in Neuropsychologia found that stress significantly reduces divergent thinking — the ability to generate multiple solutions to a problem.

The brain enters survival mode when stressed, prioritizing immediate threats over abstract thought. This is great if a lion is chasing you, but it's terrible if you’re trying to write, paint, brainstorm, or innovate.

Another Harvard study showed chronic stress shrinks the prefrontal cortex, the part of the brain responsible for creativity, problem-solving, and higher-order thinking. In other words, the more stressed you are, the harder it becomes to think creatively.

My Own Creative Crash

I once tried to write a short story during a chaotic week. Deadlines were piling up, my inbox…