How to Observe Creatively?

In the midsummer of 2021, I started writing. At that time, I really didn't know much about how to write, what to write, or how to keep people engaged through my newly-founded passion.

Part of the reason I started writing is due to the constant struggle in my ex-university majors -- the story I'm reserving for some other time.

What's important is that, in the early days, I had developed a sane thought process: "If I want to grow or prosper as a writer, then I must find a way to present a relatable picture through my words."

And I am telling you, it's one of the hardest and the proudest things a writer can achieve, i.e., paint a vision through their words.

The idea isn't to inspire an audience or inclination toward material benefits but rather to put one's introspections out there in the form of well-defined, self-explanatory creation.

If I need to sum up in two words how you can become a little bit more creative than others, then the answer would be through creative observation.

What's special about this skill is that you don't need to spend a dime on courses; it can be naturally acquired and honed to perfection.

And that's the goal of today's post! By following the prescribed methods, we'll start practicing the notion right now (while reading the article).

Stick with me, and I'm sure you'll surely get a glimpse of that faded horizon.

The Science of Observation

Let's take the dust off of the word 'observation.'

As per Merriam-Webster, it's an act of noticing a thing or a person.

We all realize the fact of living in a 3-second attention span paradigm, and 'observation' is kinda turning out to be a skill needed to be learned at school.

The theoretical evidence is clear...

As soon as the thing starts to show its impact, our intuitive reflexes allow the demand for something more appealing, more persuasive, and more aggressive.

Thus, we always get overpowered by our actions, and this is something that slowly kills creativity cells to their core.

1. Staying in the Present

You can't observe the past, nor do you need anything to do with the future.

'Present' is where the magic happens, and that's where you should be at.

Apple falls on Newton's head, and so he did reason and found his 'why.'

Be mindful of what's happening around you, everything in itself is a story, and every story can be described eloquently.

2. Staring Isn't the Same as Observing

Seeing a passer-by isn't an observation.

Don't get me wrong, but if your creativity is limited to that, take a deep breath and start again!

Here is an example to help you get started:

Sometimes, while sitting on the workbench, I saw those beautifully carved parallel lines that added meaning to the wooden texture and enhanced its natural beauty.

In it, those wooden logs may feel disoriented by those scars or may get humiliated by their wooden fellows, but they fail to see how the outer world appreciates their natural reassurance, calm and alleviated vibe.

Practice more on things, moving objects, before coming onto the sophisticated natural creation: humans.

3. Embrace Reality

Creativity doesn't only belong to the cozy atmosphere, rainy days, beautiful vantage points, and self-generated pieces of aesthetic reality.

It comes in all sizes, variations, colors, and states.

Some are gruesome, some are beautiful, and some make you feel relatable.

Embrace, observe, and find meaning in all of them, as every situation is there for a reason and happens as a reaction.

4. Stay Open-minded

Open-mindedness isn't about accepting every new shit but creating a room for people to breathe willingly.

Creativity abhors close-mindedness.

Just like stagnant water is harmful to others, so does closing the barriers of newer ideas for your creative brain.

Believe me; every artist keeps multiple perspectives at hand before fully involves in his creation.

It's because they want people from different backgrounds, castes, religions, and interests can make themselves comfortable with their art.

Don't take my word for it; this research suggests that having an openness to alternative realities can help you become more productive, healthier, and creative.

If you want to inspire people, you need to inspire yourself first.

P.S.: Don't ask me who penned the above quote; it just came to my mind.

We are Closing

These four steps are the fundamental processes leading toward creative observation.

I still am quite new in the field. These steps really helped me to get a little better at my work, and I'm sure if I poured in a fraction more effort, the results would be a lot more fruitful.

Thank you, everyone, for keeping it till the very end; I have high hopes we shall meet next time.

References

1. Observation (Creative Qualities)
2. Creativity Begins With Observation
3. ChatGPT and some Google searches

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