How To Make A Living Being Creative, Part 2

This week, I’m speaking at The University of Missouri about living a creative life. I’m offering up 21 lessons I’ve learned along the road less traveled. Click me to see part 1.

12. Do the hard thing first. Always, always, always eat your vegetables first, rip off the band-aid, and whatever other metaphor you have for getting your white whales early in the day. Pick your least favorite task and do it first thing. That thing you’re dreading? Do it first. You’ll gain immense self-respect and the respect of others.

13. Give your full attention. In this age of rapid distraction, is there anything more valuable than another person’s complete attention? Attention is a muscle you can strengthen and develop. Practice actively listening and making eye contact with others. Like doing the hard thing first, you’ll gain tremendous self-respect and the respect of others.

14. Give more than you receive. No one’s ever said “Man, she is too generous.” Find reasons to be giving. Ask for very little. We can all name the takers in our lives, and we usually do so with heavy sighs. Then, watch as your mood lightens and improves as you think about the generous, gracious people in your life. Be like them.

15. Avoid multitasking. Multitasking is a myth. Focus. Do one thing well, then do another.

16. Introduce people to each other. Be a connector. There’s real equity in being the only bridge between two great people. It’s tremendously satisfying, and in this age of interconnected social media, it’s never been easier.

17. Write one handwritten note to someone every day. But just because communication is easier than ever, it doesn’t mean you should limit yourself to tap-tap-tapping. Follow our late, great Grandma June’s advice and hand-write and hand-address one letter to someone every day. It’ll change your life.

18. Read everything. As you read, so shall you write. The better writing you read, the better your own communication will become. In this age of binge-watching and TMZ, there’s no shame in winding down your evenings or starting your day with just words and your imagination. Please don’t let that part of your brain atrophy!

19. Volunteer for a small nonprofit. When you’re younger, you’ll notice you have more time than money. Invest some of this time to not only develop your creative crafts, but also to make a difference in the lives of people who really need it. As you get older, it gets harder to make this time. It’s not impossible, but it is harder. While you’re young, and while you have the time, go make a difference. Lend your time and talents to the difference makers.

20. Tithe to your career. I’ve done this for twenty years. Take a portion of your paycheck and invest it into making yourself better at your craft. Do it every week. If you’re not growing, you’re dying. The choice is yours.

21. Show gratitude. Our parents taught us this, and Lynn, John, and I made it a habit that we’ve passed onto our children. No one’s ever said, “Man, she is waaaay too polite.” At least, no one you want to spend time with…

So, those are my 21 ways to make a living being creative. I’m sure there are others, but those are mine.

What suggestions do you have?

Thank you so much for taking the time to read these. I hope the rest of your week is full of awesome!