A few years ago I read that book : Accidental genius. It is centered around a simple but powerful idea : spontaneous writing is a great way to generate original ideas, to think differently, to see things from an unexpected point of view, to unblock your creativity, to discover what you really thing but had forgotten….
I’ve used it regularly since then. Not systematically, but it has always given good results.
According to the author :
We all have an internal editor that cleans up what we’re thinking so we can sound smart and in control, and so that we can fit in.
This editor helps us live politely among other people, but it hurts our ability to think differently and powerfully.
Freewriting temporarily forces the editor into a subservient role, so you can get to thoughts that are raw, truthful, and unusual. It’s from thoughts
The process is very simple. It is presented like this :
- Try easy : you get the best results when you don’t try, when you forget about performance or “doing good” : relax: STAY AT 90%.
- Write fast and continuously :Put the edit crazy part of you into a subordinate position. If your mind knows your hand won’t stop moving, it will let go. If no idea write anything. GO FOR JUNK
- Work against a limit. Use a timer. 10 minutes. An then stop.
- Write the way you think. You write for yourself. Don’t try to explain. Freewriting is not writing, it’s watching yourself think.
- Go with the thought : agree and extend, whatever comes on the paper
- Redirect your attention : If blocked, ask yourself a question (focus changers)
Easy isn’t it ? Just try it. You’ll be surprised.
Actually, there is not much more to know about this book. But if you like it and are interested, it’s still worth reading. The link is below.
I introduced this blog with “Accidental genius” not only because it is a valuable resource, but because I have the intention to use it a lot. Actually, Accidental genius will be one of the categories of this blog. And, each week, I’ll publish an “accidental genius” blog article.
As an experiment. But also as a tool and a way to reflect on this blog’s content and orientation. My bet is that it will help me improve this blog and find exciting ideas to create stimulating content to share with you.
Let’s embrace the accidents of life
Levy, Mark. Accidental Genius: Using Writing to Generate Your Best Ideas, Insight, and Content . Berrett-Koehler Publishers.
