Inspiration is all around us, whether it comes from a book, an advertisement, or a show, there are many things that can fuel creative fluid in our minds. Mitch Ditkoff wrote "14 Ways to get Breakthrough Ideas" or for me, 14 ways to become inspired. I think that Mitch has some good points, suggesting that breakthrough ideas start with the awareness of where ideas come from in the first place. It also explains the importance of Western and Eastern approaches.
The first approach that really struck me, was ironically the very first point out of the fourteen. It is described as "Follow your fascination". I think that this spoke to me because of my realization with how important that really is. I think it can almost be considered one's "gut" instinct with what he or she finds interesting. Not only that, but generally speaking people already have a drive to excel in that area or field. I for sure think that it is a good suggestion because it also tells one to not pass up on something that fascinates you, because it could be that important, or "sacred" as Mitch says. I think that creatively, this has a lot of weight because people of the creative nature must have some sort of drive and inspiration from something.
The one thing that I do agree with, but thing differently about, it the ability to fantasize. I believe that this is an important skill, and yes, it is something that will only help "dreamers" know where their ideas could possibly go. But the idea to fantasize, sounds childish. It makes an impression that something is an unreachable goal, and that it is simply.....well, a "fantasy". I think that it is still a good idea, and I do not argue the fact that it needs to be done. However, I believe a better word that suits more appropriately would be "to creatively assume". By this one could effectively see an outcome realistically, and not be sidetracked by the unicorns and spaceships that he or she might be "fantasizing" about.
One of the most important aspects of a creative profession however, is the ability to make connections. I believe that Mitch does do a good job at expressing the importance for this, however, I am not sure why it is number 4. I strongly feel as if this quality should be rated at #2 or #1. Regardless, there are many benefits to having connections outside of ones that a person is familiar with. I think that has been made clear as well. We have all heard the expression to "think outside of the box" but how often do we really do it? This is where the best and truest innovation comes from, and its not surprising when we realize we have been being told this idea since we were in kindergarten. New and great Ideas are made by making new connections with our minds. Connecting bits of information and ideas for near and far can only have the greatest impact. I think that it is not only important to make connections with our minds and ideas. But it is VITAL to make connections with a network of people, and authority. So much of the creative industry will only get you as far as the people you know. And it is something that is left out of this slide by Mitch for whatever reason. Knowing the right people can only be beneficial. One must "play the game" so to speak in order to get an edge. I believe that is why it is so necessary to know an advanced network of people as well as to think outside of the box.
Brainstorming has always been something that I have been good at. It can be the most daunting part of an assignment, and it can be the most rewarding when it is all over. The ability to brainstorm effectively is huge, and can only speed up the process of following through with some of the best ideas one can think of. The next time that I have planned on brainstorming, is for the 48 hour shootout. In fact, I already have some ideas brewed up for the occasion. It is going to be a horror movie, and I already have the script written, and drawn out (thats how excited I am for it). The cast is the next part of brainstorming. I need to gather a group of people that will help excite the movie, make it legitimate, and believable. I think it is important to get my roommate, and some of my friends that I will need to select in order to help bring the best ideas to the table, and that know what I am looking for as a director. I think we will all facilitate equally, and make things as easy as possible, and I plan on doing this soon. Most likely the first weekend in February. I can't wait.
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