Input --> Output

There is a phenomenon so obvious that I hardly dare mention it: inputs to one's thinking drive the outputs of one's thinking. This is a deceptively simple truth, yet truly understanding it unlocks a great secret to creativity: if you're finding creative output hard to come by, then shift your attention to your inputs.

Seeking inspiration is a discipline that must be cultivated. I've noticed even in this blog, whenever I'm struggling to figure out what to write about, the simple answer is, "seek interesting inputs." It's hard to be interesting if you're not interested! Again, this is so obvious that it's almost painful, yet I'm consistently surprised what a great litmus test it is: If i'm struggling with what to share, I've probably neglected to seek out sufficiently fresh material. What a great diagnostic tool the habit of sharing has been for my own creative reservoir!

This also reminds me of another incredible benefit of establishing a daily practice of sharing: it protects me from over-indulging my tendency to consume more knowledge without putting it to use in some way. Honestly, blogging takes time; and sometimes, I can resent the commitment I have made to blog every day, because I'd like to spend that time reading more, honestly!

But a healthy sharing practice helps me temper that tendency and keeps my learning from outstripping my own ability to process and connect that knowledge.

I've heard (unverified factoid) that while the Dead Sea and the Sea of Galilee are both fed from the same source, the former supports no marine life, while the latter is one of the most bio-diverse environments in the world. What's the difference?

The Dead Sea has no outlet! So in a sense, my hope is that these posts not only keep me fresh, but also support the inspiration of others... let me know how I'm doing!

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