Late last year I read two great books. Each book approaches the creative process from a different perspective. I think these books capture the entire creative process; from generating great ideas through making them reality. I want to share a little about each book and something that I learned from reading each one.
The Accidental Creative
The Accidental Creative, by Todd Henry, describes how to generate a steady stream of great ideas. According to Todd, the purpose of his book is to, “help you create faster and more effectively than you ever imagined possible.” This book is divided into two parts. The first explores the dynamics at work for anyone that must create value everyday. Then Todd explores the habits needed to get into a rhythm that maximizes your creative potential.
For me, the second part of the book was very helpful. Todd shares great ideas about how to get into a creative rhythm. Many of his ideas are habits important to creative professionals, and I have already adopted a few. For example, I am much more purposeful about what I read and what I listen to. The quality of the information I take in effects the quality of my creative work.
Todd is also a blogger and podcaster. His Web site is http://www.theaccidentalcreative.com/.
Making Ideas Happen
Making Ideas Happen, by Scott Belsky, describes the process of turning turning ideas into reality. Scott says that to make ideas happen, “You just need to modify your organizational habits, engage a broader community, and develop a broader leadership capability.” He provides excellent suggestions about how to get an idea across the finish line.
For me, I know that idea execution is a challenge. I think that this blog is a great idea, but I struggle to write consistently. Scott’s discussion of living with a bias toward action has helped me to write more consistently. (This is my second post this week.)
More information about Scott’s work can be found at http://www.scottbelsky.com/.
If you have read either of these books and want to share your experience, leave a comment.
References
Belsky, S. (2010). Making ideas happen. New York: Penguin Group.
Henry, T. (2011). The accidental creative: how to be brilliant at a moment’s notice. New York: Penguin Group (USA) Inc.