I’m sure I am not the only creative who has had a great idea, told myself that I would remember it for later, promptly forgot it, and then bemoaned the fact that I did not take time to write it down so that I wouldn’t forget it.
I enjoy reading books about creativity’s origin, fostering creativity, and being efficient with the process and ideas that are generated. I am always trying to be a bit more organized so that new ideas have room to grow and are not crowded out by other things that I am trying to remember or complete. Because of this, I was especially interested in this quote by Ralph Waldo Emerson:
Look sharply after your thoughts. They come unlooked for, like a new bird seen on your trees, and if you turn to your usual task, disappear; and you shall never find that perception again; never, I say – but perhaps years, ages, and I know not what events and worlds may lie between you and its return!
There are miracles, ideas, and fantastic things happening all around me every day. I think the most productive and creative artist must be the one that takes the time to notice and “mark” the idea for rumination and future use.
May you find a way to look sharply after your thoughts!