Recently I’ve been thinking about what inspires me, and I’ve come up with five personal truths that may (or may not) help anyone struggling to find their next idea. For me, inspiration is usually
1. Sparked by joy, scared by need
Most of my best ideas have come to me while away from my desk, often on a “field trip” for something unrelated. Actively looking for inspiration seems to frighten it away.
2. Housed within an active body
Physical activity always seems to spark something mentally unexpected. It could be as big as a fresh link between seemingly unrelated topics, or just a reminder to reach out to a long-lost friend.
3. Born out of a seemingly unrelated conversation
When I look back on what’s sparked my best ideas, most originated in a casual chat with Paul or a close friend. Even the folks we know best often surprise us, and talking face to face with another human—about pretty much anything of mutual interest—can wander wonderfully off the beaten path.
4. Found on the water
Whether it’s a morning paddle around the harbor, an afternoon of wing foiling, or watching sunset from a tranquil cockpit, time on the water is for me a consistent source of happiness. And happy, relaxed minds are more likely to take the leaps that lead to the next big—or small—inspiration.
5. Seasonal
Fall is my most creative time of year, a valid reason to celebrate the end of summer!
Other perspectives
Elizabeth Gilbert posits in Big Magic that ideas float around the universe, awaiting the right host—and quickly flitting off if they are ignored. That resonates with me, and I do think we can help attract (or repel) inspiration through our own behavior. As I said in my 2016 book review, “It’s when we don’t know what our next passion will be that we must trust our curiosity.”
And here’s one of my favorite quotes from Farnam Street: “What you find interesting is a better predictor of success than what you’re good at. Curiosity isn’t random; it’s a compass.” For more kernels like this, sign up for a weekly dose of their Brain Food.
What inspires you most, and when are you most receptive to ideas both large and small? Share your wisdom in the comments below, or send me an email. I read every single one, with gratitude—and who knows where our discussion might lead any one of us! Thanks for reading, and see you next Thursday.