Why I Brainstorm in Bed: The Art of Unstructured Creativity

Have you ever sat down with a blank piece of paper with no goal in mind and just let your mind wander? No. In our fast-paced lives, there's always something to think about. Whether it's work, personal projects, or other responsibilities, it's easy to lose sight of the joy of unstructured creativity.

The Evolution of My Brainstorming Process

It all goes back to a time when my brain wasn’t preoccupied with the mundane aspects of life, such as paying bills. These days, my mind is constantly filled with a variety of tasks and commitments, from planning a book to managing a self-employed artistic career. Brainstorming for fun just doesn’t fit into my schedule.

For me, brainstorming happens at night in bed. There's something magical about the middle of the night when your mind is at ease, and you're not restricted by the constraints of reality. It's during these moments that answers and ideas come to me, making the creative process both exciting and rewarding.

The Juggling of Ideas: The Brain as a Dreamer

Being a self-employed artist means juggling a million ideas at once. It’s a constant mental workout, similar to the skill of juggling. Just as your muscles need to be engaged to catch and throw balls, your brain needs to be active to process and integrate new ideas. The word "brainstorm" perfectly captures this process: a storm of neural networks firing, connecting, and synthesizing ideas that eventually form a more complex and beautiful whole.

The Importance of Balance: Finding Harmony in Creativity

Just as with physical activities like yoga, hiking, and basketball, balance is key in maintaining the energy and focus needed for the creative mind. The electrical activity in the brain requires a significant amount of energy, and without proper balance, you can easily run the risk of burnout. Finding a balance between being fully engaged in your work and engaging in activities that allow your mind to rest is crucial.

Group Brainstorming: The Middle Child Advantage

Being a middle child often comes with advantages, such as the ability to adapt and brainstorm effectively. My wife, her daughter, her husband, and I all share this trait as middle children. We have a knack for brainstorming and adapting, and it often happens when we're all in the same room.

Brainstorming in a group setting can be incredibly productive. When multiple minds are engaged, a multitude of perspectives and ideas contribute to the overall brain. It's a collaborative effort that can lead to innovative solutions and creative breakthroughs.

Conclusion: Embracing Unstructured Creativity

In a world where goals and to-do lists dominate, it's important to find moments to let your mind wander. Whether it's in bed at night, during a hike, or in the company of friends and family, unstructured creativity can lead to some of your most valuable and innovative ideas. So next time you find yourself with a blank piece of paper and no goal in mind, give it a try. You might be surprised at what comes to you.