Have you ever thought up the most witty comeback to a joke, comment, or insult that you stopped someone dead in their tracks? Sure, lots of us have, but most of the time it is ten minutes after the person walks away.
Anyone who has ever had to think quickly on the spot, with no preparation, no warm-up, understands how that part of our brain does not always work when we need it to. Unless you are a professional comedian, a cold start is not always the ideal situation.
But, sometimes just straight out the gate, our mind can perform beautifully. And even impress oneself and others around us. When that happens, you have found the creative sweet spot. And, oh, is it sweet! When that happens, we want to exploit that opportunity and keep the engines going.
Creativity is Not Always Planned
In a job, it is nice to be productive. To have these plans to accomplish certain tasks. On a schedule. At a certain time each day. Punch a time clock and go to work. As a writer, it doesn't always work this way. You may sit down at your computer at 8 am and stare at a blank screen. NO productivity in your world at the moment. Sometimes, you just can't plan creativity. Just like giving birth, it will come when it is ready.
Keep a Tool with you at ALL Times
I have found that when I discover the sweet spot, I better act on it. Take advantage of the situation. Put pencil to paper ASAP. Have it handy - whatever tool you use - computer, pencil, crayon, journal, sticky notes, or voice recorder. Don't wait on it, or the feeling may pass. Sometimes, it takes a lot of energy and brain power to bring it back. Then, it feels more like work, and it is not as enjoyable.
Don't Force It!
Which brings me to the next point, if it feels like work, take a break until you find the sweet spot again. Don't force it! If you think you have found it, let the words flow. Keep the pencil to the paper or typing to the keyboard. Even if it does not feel natural at first, take your time, it will come to you. There is no need to rush.
Figure out the Triggers
Creativity will not always spark in the same way each time. However, there are probably a few things that trigger the creative sweet spot. Learn them. Know them intimately. Engage with them. React to them. Exploit them. Although, it may be the case that even the same triggers will not work each and every time, so it is best to learn a variety of methods.
Keep on Doing it - Practice Makes Perfect
The more you use the mind, the more you will figure out how to provoke the creative sweet spot. If you let the mind get lazy and avoid writing, it will only be that much harder to find the sweet spot again. You will forget the triggers and you will get rusty. Write, write, write, and write again. Any time you get the slightest urge, just do it! Soon, you will be able to exploit the sweet spot and enjoy the process each and every time.
Not everyone will find the creative sweet spot. Some may not even have one. But, if you do discover it, exploit for all it is worth! And enjoy it.
More from Julie McElroy
