Repeat to Innovate: Why Your Next Big Idea Might Be One You’ve Already Had
New Writers — This is Why Repetition is Your Friend, Not Your Foe
Breaking the Myth: How Repetition Fuels Originality
The moment my readers learn about my writing streak they react in disbelief.
They raise their eyebrows, shake their head and wonder how it’s possible.
In the recent past, many of you have asked me about my ability to develop new ideas and avoid repetition.
Let me tell you a secret, I repeat a lot of my ideas.
Here’s a quote from Andre Gide that I love and am not shy to repeat.
Everything that needs to be said has already been said. But since no one was listening, everything must be said again. ~ Andre Gide.
To become a prolific writer, I’ve been doing everything my mind was afraid to do.
I repeat myself, steal ideas from others, and write even when doubts cloud my conviction.
In the beginning, since you lack confidence and question the quality of your writing, these concepts can be difficult to implement.
Simple, not easy.
Pay close attention to nonfiction books and you’ll notice a recurring theme.
The author ends up repeating the same thought over and over again.
If successful authors can do it, why shouldn’t you?
I mean, I don’t think I could have a year-long streak without the help of repetition.
When I repeat, I try to look for fresh angles. New perspectives.
Share examples that I haven’t shared before. Look for anecdotes or metaphors I find interesting.
This is what makes writing exciting and fun.
When you repeat ideas, your brain challenges you further. It bolsters and further improves your thinking.
So rather than feeling afraid, embrace repetition. It is a superpower and nothing to be ashamed of.
I breached the 450+ article mark earlier this week. I’m sure I wouldn’t have had I worried about repetition.
As a newcomer, don’t hesitate to repeat ideas; don’t let your mind convince you otherwise.
Something will stick and you might just end up becoming a part of someone else’s journey.
What do you fear when you think about repeating your ideas?
