1. SimpleMind
Available on: iPhone, iPad, Mac, Windows, Android
Sometimes the thing that’s blocking our creativity is not generation of new ideas, but organizing them into something that might work. So if you are one of those people who have several idea floating on their minds, then the mindmapping tool, SimpleMind, may be just be the app you need.
SimpleMind is a mind-mapping tool that converts your computer, smartphone, or tablet into a brainstorming, idea collection and thought structuring device. Cool features include the ability to create an invisible note (so you can add large texts without cluttering your mind map), to add voice memos on iPhone, iPad and Android; and to add video on iPhone and iPad.
2. Coffitivity
Available on: iPhone, iPad, Mac, Windows, Android
Coffitivity is an app that recreates the ambient sounds of a cafe. This is based on research showing that such background sounds makes your brain more creative. According to a peer-reviewed study out of the University of Chicago, “A moderate level of ambient noise is conducive to creative cognition.” In a nutshell, this means being a tiny bit distracted helps you be more creative.
There needs to be more research done in this area, but there are many writers and designers who say they do some of their best work in coffee shops. If you’re like them, then making your own coffee at home and using this app can save money you’d usually spend at a cafe.
3. Unstuck
Available on: iPhone, iPad, Android
The biggest enemy of creativity is creative block. That feeling of being stuck and not knowing how to proceed is something everyone experiences in different ways.
Unstuck is an in-the-moment digital coach that’s ready every time we’re feeling stuck. The app helps us see and solve situations with fresh perspective through provocative questions, targeted tips, and action-oriented tools. It’s an approach that works for all kinds of issues, large and small, so we can live better every day.
So if you feel you’re constantly lacking creativity, this might be the app you need to spend your time on.
4. Brainsparker
Available on: iPhone, iPad, Apple Watch, Android
When you’re trying to come up with a new creative idea, a popular brainstorming technique involves writing words on pieces of paper, pulling them out of a hat at random, relating them to the problem at hand, and see what they spark in your brain.
In other words, sometimes you need a bit of randomness to generate the right creative ideas. Brainsparker app intends to do just that. The app’s random creativity prompts to ignite our imagination, overcome creative blocks and brainstorm new ideas all in one easy-to-use app.
The free app contains 200 cards containing thought-provoking words and phrases. You simply shake your device to shuffle the pack and produce a new card. The rest is up to you.