Arthur Koestler defined creativity, “The collision of two apparently unrelated frames of reference.” Collisions, or connections more broadly, often get the spotlight when it comes to creative thinking. But what enables unexpected connections? Besides fresh input, the surprising secret to unexpected connection is deliberate disconnection. I've mentioned wielding a walk as a deliberate strategy for disconnecting to form new connections. 

I was delighted by Joyce Carol Oates' description of a tactic she often employs to resolve creative blocks plaguing her plots, and the mystical thinking around it:

"I live in a semi-rural area. There’s a hill near where I live, a country road. At the top of the hill, I’ve gotten so many ideas. I run over there. That’s about a mile, or maybe mile and half. So it’s like, up waiting for me on top of that hill will be some idea. Now, that’s obviously a mystical, superstitious notion on my part. Yet it seems to happen quite often. So if I’m stuck trying to work out a plot at my desk — I really can’t work it out here. I have to go somewhere else, preferably up the big hill. And I need to be alone with my thoughts."

Joyce Carol Oates, in conversation with Tim Ferriss (transcript link, podcast link).

What a realization that the answers aren't at the desk. The answers aren't in the computer. As much as we value connection, and should seek the unexpected inputs that fuel fresh connections, we need to prioritize deliberate disconnection, too. 

Click here to subscribe to Paint & Pipette, the weekly digest of these daily posts.