A Good Idea is Worth That Conversation

I created the black lettering on this piece by doing polylinear design. It entails writing the same text over and over until a pattern appears amongst the lines of text. This process reminded me of what it feels like to create. Sometimes you have to do the same thing over and over again until you see the patterns in between the actions. That can be a messy process especially if you allow yourself to make mistakes.

For a lot of creative people they organize their tools and their work area is very messy. Why is that you might ask? Having the tools needed to create ready at hand means a moment of inspiration is not thwarted by wasted time trying to find the right tool for the job. The rest of the work area may be a mess – hence this quote from Austin Kleon – and that works as it gives the freedom to keep working. A lot of creative people have messy desks but they can put their hand on just what they need when they need it.

It is important to remember that it is not about what other people think of the work space, it is how effective the space is for the person to create. Some people create piles, others put everything away at the end of each day. Some have order and will clean up before working yet leave the area a disaster once their idea has been accomplished. Having the freedom to have a personal space to create, dream, and build can make the difference between getting an important idea into the real world or doing nothing for fear of outside judgement because of the mess it may create.

Where do you work best? What kind of space do you need to build your dreams and move your ideas from your head into real life? And do the people around you understand that about you? Maybe it is time to share what you need with those you love. A good idea is worth that conversation.