Tuesday, January 13, 2009

to do lists

goodwill: selected works

As I get back into the swing of reading, writing, and making I've been trying to decide how to divide my time, the best order to attempt things, if it is necessary to have a strict schedule at all (for me, I think having a schedule regardless of whether I stick to it helps me to keep some semblance of discipline).

Ada Limon posted a blog on Harriet today that focuses on the "practicing poet." Though the micro-essay is geared towards poets/writers, I think it can apply to anyone trying to work creatively. You can read it here. It is good to learn about the habits of others as we cultivate our own; another blog Daily Routines chronicles the rituals of famous writers, musicians, and other people of interest.

My greatest goal right now is to maintain a high level of observance. It's very easy for me to get stuck inside myself but it is important to absorb life. My highest levels of creativity come when I am frantically scribbling down thoughts inspired by something I overhear or a conversation I have or by seeing something and taking note.