Discover the habits that nurture my creative process as a writer and avid observer of life, and learn how keeping an open mind fuels my imagination and storytelling.

Creativity is a delicate, elusive force, often requiring the perfect blend of inspiration, discipline, and spontaneity. As a writer, engineer, and avid observer of life, I've found that certain habits have profoundly nurtured my creative process. Here are the ones that stand out the most:

Walking

There's something magical about taking a stroll at night after dinner. The world quiets down, the stars come out, and the soft whispers of the night wind spark my imagination. These walks are my sanctuary, a time when my mind can wander freely. The rhythm of my steps often syncs with the cadence of my thoughts, creating a harmonious flow that fuels my creativity. It’s during these moments that I often stumble upon the seeds of new ideas or the perfect resolution for a plot twist.

Journaling

My journal is my confidant, my canvas, and my brainstorming partner. I pour everything into it – thoughts, observations, snippets of conversations, and random musings. This practice helps me clear my mind, organize my thoughts, and reflect on my experiences. It’s a safe space where I can explore new ideas without judgment. Often, what starts as a mere entry evolves into a full-blown story or an insightful piece of writing.

Taking Pictures

Photography is another extension of my creative self. Capturing moments, whether it's the delicate bloom of a flower or the serene expanse of a landscape, allows me to see the world from different perspectives. These images often serve as visual prompts, sparking stories and scenes in my mind. Plus, they help me relive and reinterpret moments, enriching my creative reservoir.

Reading

As an avid reader, books are my portals to different worlds. They inspire me, challenge me, and teach me new ways of thinking. Diving into a good book stimulates my imagination and often leads to new ideas for my own writing. I read across genres and subjects, from fiction to technical manuals, each offering unique insights that I weave into my creative tapestry.

Daydreaming

Daydreaming is my superpower. I can be engaged in a conversation yet simultaneously be crafting a fictional scene in my mind. These daydreams are where my wildest ideas take shape. They allow me to experiment with characters, settings, and plots without the constraints of reality. It’s a playful, essential part of my creative process that keeps my imagination vibrant and active.

Observing & Listening

As an engineer and a writer, observing and listening are crucial. I find endless inspiration in the minutiae of everyday life – the way people interact, the sounds of nature, the subtle shifts in the environment. This habit helps me create authentic, relatable characters and settings. By paying attention to the world around me, I gather a rich tapestry of details that add depth and realism to my writing.

Keeping an Open Mind

Last but not the least, an open mind is the cornerstone of creativity. It allows me to embrace new ideas, perspectives, and experiences. This openness fuels my curiosity and drives me to explore uncharted territories in my writing. Whether it’s delving into a new genre, experimenting with a different narrative style, or simply being receptive to feedback, maintaining an open mind keeps my creative process dynamic and evolving.

These habits are the lifeblood of my creative process. They each contribute uniquely, helping me to cultivate and sustain my creativity. By nurturing these practices, I find that my imagination flourishes, allowing me to craft stories that resonate deeply with both myself and my readers.