A couple months ago, we decided to start a TBM Book Club and we chose Wired to Create: Unraveling the Mysteries of the Creative Mind by Scott Barry Kaufman and Carolyn Gregoire. You know that feeling when you read a book that seems like it was specifically written for you? I feel that way about this book. Wired to Create explores the psychology and science behind the creative mind, exploring the ways in which creative people think and act differently.
The chapter that stood out to me most is Chapter 4, which is all about solitude and how it’s an essential part of maintaining a creative life. The blogging world is filled with networking opportunities, social media engagement, and overall just constant communication. Communication is the foundation of blogging, so that makes sense. However, I think sometimes we take for granted how helpful a little solitude can be for our well-being and our creative work. Here are three ways solitude will help boost your creativity and give you some inspiration.
1. When we engage in solitude, the brain’s imagination network is activated.
While reading this book, I realized that all of my best ideas come to me when I’m alone and free from distractions or influence from others. It turns out this is actually scientific. When we are alone, our minds are able to make creative connections that we may not have thought of otherwise.
2. Taking a break from your social life will help you focus better.
This one is pretty obvious. It’s always a good idea to sign off especially from social media, but when social media is closely connected to your creative field, it’s really hard to step away. Chapter 7 of Wired to Create is about mindfulness and it touches upon our addiction to communication. Honestly, I felt really convicted reading this chapter and then I spaced out and grabbed my phone mid-paragraph. Ha! So obviously I’m struggling. Anyway, I think solitude and mindfulness go hand in hand. Being alone and in the present moment is where we can actually dig deep and come up with exciting new ideas.
3. You’ll have more to share the next time you engage in community.
The purpose of solitude isn’t to just hide out from the world and empty our minds. In solitude, we can get inspired and collect a bunch of great insights and ideas that we can eventually share with a larger community. Exhibit A: Blogging.
…key to creativity is the balance of focus on the self and focus on others, inwardness and outwardness, deep reflection and motivated action. – Wired to Create
This list could probably go on and on, but the point is – we all need a little solitude. Whether you’re naturally introverted or extroverted, you can probably agree that quality alone time brings about a lot of creative inspiration.
Do you feel like you need times of solitude in order to focus on your creative work?
Also, any suggestions for our next TBM Book Club read are welcome!
Doreen Arteaga says
Great post! I agree…solitude is key for me. I love zoning out to yoga, mindful meditation, or even just going for a walk. It all can be so overwhelming. We all need an outlet. Thanks for sharing!
Holly says
I loved reading this post and definitely agree. I can sometimes get lost in all the noise and it’s important to understand when you need solitude. I always work my best when I’m on my own and going for a walk really helps to clear my mind and focus on being more intentional.
Jennifer says
Definitely! Being outside really refreshes me too. I have to remember that when I step away from my work, I always come back to it more focused and with better ideas.
Audrey | Brunch at Audrey's says
I definitely need solitude, but I’ve always attributed that to the fact that I’m an introvert. Now that you mention it, I do think that solitude has helped me creatively :) -Audrey | Brunch at Audrey’s
Malique says
Hi this is a great post. I just wanted to know how to edit your photos? Like how do you get the white square and the writing? It looks great
Thanks
Jennifer says
Hi there! We just use Photoshop and use the shape and text tools on the photos. :)
Alex de Steiguer says
I’m a believer. I’ve been a winter caretaker on a remote island off the coast of New England for 20 years, and during that time, I’ve not only built and shown a portfolio of hundreds of fine-art black & white photographs, I’ve filled dozens of journals, published a book (*about* solitude and creativity!), and composed a couple dozen original songs which I’m crowdfunding for right now. alexdesteiguer.com/songsfrom7 The point of the album is to connect other artists to work created in solitude. I’ll let you know how it goes!