Discovery — the Second Step in the Cycle of Creativity
A curious mind will aid your research in this step
This article explains the second step from the cycle of creativity I introduced here:
After dreaming about your next step in whatever realm you are planning to move or create- writing a novel, improving your relationship, learning to play an instrument comes the Discovery phase.
Whatever has piqued your interest- learning to tango, or learn a new language or compose a piece of music requires research.
Start with an Internet search. Google “how to” and fill in the blank. Realize this is preliminary. It may yield results, but this is just the tip of the iceberg. Dig deeper.
The library and bookstores will become your best friends. A librarian can often search on the internet in institutional archives you may not have access to.
The key components to discovery are:
- reading
- interviewing
- questioning
Read everything you can lay your eyes on regarding your subject.
Where to learn? Is there a comparison or review of Apps? Are there studies regarding the franchise you are considering buying? Are there professional organizations for your new career? Are there statistics that show what sort of setting is successful for your venture?
Interview everyone you possibly can about this area.
Who do you know now working in the field you are considering? This is not a time for being shy; it is the opportunity to exercise your ability to network. People are valuable resources of knowledge, and they love to share, especially if they are experienced in an area.
When I decided to paint a number of rooms in the house I wanted to sell, I first asked three realtors for a suggestion as to color, then I googled “how to paint a room,” and watched a number of YouTube videos clearly demonstrating techniques.
Do not stop there!
I went to the local hardware store and hung out at the paint counter. I watched the clerk and listened to the questions customers asked. I learned about paint families, base coats, primers just from listening, then I peppered her with more questions when she was available.
I also found men in splotched clothing in the paint aisles and approached them with, “You look like you have done this before. Do you mind if I ask you a question or two?”
Not one turned me down. Not one.
Continue to question
How will I do this? Where will I find time? How can I afford this? Who do I know that may know someone in this field?
Everything that pops up as you return to the Dream cycle is a great prompt for where you need to investigate next.
The cycle of creativity requires that you return to the first step and keep dreaming, even as you practice discovering.
Things happen as you stay in the cycle
Unexpected assets start to materialize as you “work the cycle.” As I dreamt about my refurbished house and discovered how to get there step-by-step, I not only developed knowledge; I grew a support team.
When I confided to Kim, the paint counter clerk, that I had never painted a room before, she came back at me with, “You can do this! Anyone can paint a room! Feel free to ask me ANYTHING.”
Later, when I needed to replace a toilet, Kim introduced me to Louis in Flooring who is also a registered plumber.
One resource will point you in the direction of another.
Think of it as a scavenger hunt for the real gold — knowledge!
Keep at it and I can’t help but be curious, what is it you are discovering along the way?
Respond and let me know!
