Work on different techniques and exercises. Good technique isn't the goal but is a means toward developing your potential as an artist. Musicians, writers and visual artists all develop and hone their skills by working on different techniques. A musician, for example, may work on scales, chords, or a certain piece of music to develop finesse and dexterity on his instrument.
Study the work of other artists. Art isn't created in a vacuum. Writers, musicians and painters are inspired and influenced by other writers, musicians and painters. Studying the work, techniques and methods of other artists helps to develop an appreciation and critical insight into the creative artistic process. Open yourself up to different types of art and avoid isolating yourself in a particular discipline.
Share your art and ideas with fellow artists and colleagues. The process may be structured and formal such as participating in writer's workshop or it may be more informal such as discussing art and creativity over a cup of coffee or a beer. The overlapping of mutual interests, influences and ideas is an important part of the artistic process.
Experiment and take risks with your art. Artists can easily become stagnant when they are afraid to think outside of the particular tradition they are trained in. The ultimate goal for an artist is to find his own voice or style. Art develops and moves forward because artists who create new ways of thinking about art and who subsequently change the art form. Great artists such as Pablo Picasso, the bebop saxophonist Charlie Parker, and the Irish writer James Joyce completely changed the rules of the game for the painters, jazz musicians, and writers who followed them.