Making space

From collecting to creating

I recently stumbled upon a powerful idea, though I can't recall where: We often save links, screenshots, ideas, and quotes with the best intentions, believing we'll use this digital "paraphernalia" someday. We collect inspiration and instructions, but they often just sit there, unused. The author suggested we stop collecting and start processing or integrating these ideas into our work. (Ironically, I didn't save that post, so the source remains a mystery!)

This concept ties into the idea of a "second brain," an information management system designed to store all the ideas constantly coming our way. The theory is that by utilizing such systems, we can boost our productivity and creativity. As I reflected on this, I realized I was a prime offender, hoarding ideas and inspiration for more than a decade. They've been sitting in metaphorical piles, unsorted and unreviewed. In fact, this digital deluge had become overwhelming, paralyzing me from even knowing where to begin or even being inspired. Rather than fostering creativity, it became a significant barrier.

So, I decided to challenge myself: start purging. I began with a couple of my digital collections. I deleted over 3,000 screenshots from my Photos, hundreds of saved article links from Flipboard, and my watch later list on YouTube. It was a fascinating trip down memory lane, recalling past interests and life chapters. I felt a simultaneous sense of relief from releasing them and a slight fear of losing a valuable tip, template, or idea forever.

This sense of scarcity is quite intriguing, especially when deleting something non-physical and intangible. I'm reminding myself that there's no shortage of information in our world. By letting go of these things, I'm creating space for my own ideas to emerge. If a particular idea truly needs to return to me, I trust the universe will bring it my way again. And if I am curious about a topic, I do know how to research it.

Now, perhaps it's time to apply this same process to my physical art studio! eek!

How about you? What have you been collecting with the unrealistic hopes of using one day? What would create space for you?

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