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And sometimes the key moment — that spark of inspiration or motivation — happens at the strangest times
Where is the location of this magical story-creating machine? My local gym
While this may seem like an odd source of article fodder, somehow the energy and dynamic work
I think it’s because the gym I frequent has two workout rooms, each separated from the
The other room is a large open space designed for fitness classes and yoga sessions
I close the door, dim the lights, and prepare for a private brainstorming session
To be clear, I actually work out during this time, beginning with a few stretches and yoga
Usually a past experience, memory, or encounter will rise to the surface
From that twinge of curiosity, something unique begins to develop, and the words pour into my brain
Because those are the issues and subjects that tend to stick around, at least until we can
Still, I realize I can’t rely on sole-sourcing this fountain of ideas
The reality is there are days when I can’t make it to the gym
In his post, “The Ultimate Guide for Becoming an Idea Machine,” author, blogger, and podcaster James Altucher
In some cases, this mental firewall helps to keep distractions and unproductive diversions at a safe distance
But to give myself more opportunities to find things to write about, I needed to turn my
Every day I create a new list of ideas and article topics — even if they suck
From those topics and notes, I’ll choose one or more to develop into a finished piece
Because everyone has their own viewpoint on just about everything
And when two or more people come together, things can get pretty interesting
My mental note pad begins to fill, and I use memory pegs to retain the information until
Because tomorrow, or next week, or next year, one of those concepts may resonate with you, and
Then let in a few stray thoughts and jumpstart your writing adventure
You might be surprised to discover a new sense of excitement and inspiration from this free-range method
Jill Reid is the author of Please God, Make Me A Writer, Real Life, Discover Your Personal