Clear but present creation
Posted on May 3, 2007, by dazzer67, under creativity basics, inspiration, preparation.
The definition of ‘create’ is to bring into existence. We use our imagination to bring something into existence, this is the creative act. Imagination is often sparked by making new connections. By connecting two seemingly unconnectable things we can create something new and original.
This may lead us to think that the more ‘cluttered’ our minds are the more creative connections we can make. I used to think this way and was heard to say, ‘it’s not a mess, it’s a creative workstation,’ or words to that effect. However, I also knew that I wasn’t being as creative as I could be. I would often have a ’spark’ of imagination and then it would quickly be snuffed out with all the clutter.
This led me to notice a potential paradox between filling my mind with potential connections, to allow and enhance creativity, and clearing my head in order to develop the creative ideas. It became obvious to me that I needed to foster both, however, what I was calling my ‘creative chaos’ was actually nothing of the sort. It was simply unordered and unfinished mess and clutter. This mess would distract me and so when the inspiration came it quickly left and turned into more unfulfilled clutter.
So what have I done? Well I do try to use David Allen’s Getting Things Done to keep on top of all the things I have to do and that has helped enormously. I keep my mind clear of distractions and therefore focus on new connections. I’ll come back to Getting Things Done another time, but until then here are a couple of things that have become guiding creative principles to me:
- Keep my head clear - make lists of what I need to do
- Keep my desk clear - space allows creativity to grow
- Keep adding potential connections - read widely and interact with broadcast media (don’t just sit and watch TV but talk back to it, make connections as you watch)
Put simply it means clearing space to allow the flow of new ideas. It isn’t rocket science but then neither is breathing, but it is so much easier to do without a blocked nose.
