On Inspiration - Am I Really All the Things that are Outside of Me?

With the arrival of the Internet, we've all more or less learned that no idea comes out of thin air. Trying to come up with an "original" thought to contribute to the world in which we are constantly exposed to information, ideas an conversations, can be, well, terrifying. Instead of trying to uproot a new idea from the chaotic cacophony of noise that surrounds us, why not immerse yourself in it all?

As the Animal Collective, "Taste," asks, "Am I really all the things that are outside of me?" 

Everyone is trying to impose their interpretation the world and gather a gaggle of followers to buy into their vision. Forget the constructs that others are building and seek out your own. Congratulate the accomplished in the field and listen when something sticks out that makes sense to incorporate into the vision you are creating. As Seth Godin advises, seek out innovation and will it to appear instead of waiting for it to come to you. "[T]rain it to arrive on time and on command," he says.

Remember that you are in the driver's seat. We live in an era that lends an incredible amount of power to the individual. Instead of trying to build from the blocks others have laid and mimicking progress, work on creating something of your own. Be humble and recognize that your creation was influenced by others, but don't quiver with intimidation if someone else builds a stronger idea. Take pride in what you have built and make revisions in areas that need work. Be patient and open as your ideas evolve and good things will come.