Hey there, fellow adventurers in fatherhood and beyond! Welcome back to my creative diary as I navigate Dave Birss’ Creative Bootcamp. Today’s task was all about introspection and honesty—getting to the heart of what kind of person I am when it comes to cultivating ideas. So, let’s dive into the nitty-gritty of today’s challenge and explore how I can nurture my creativity even further.
Am I an Idea Cultivator?
First off, let’s talk about being an idea cultivator. I’ve always found it easier to encourage others than myself. Whether it was my sons or my students back when I taught at the university, I’ve always been their biggest cheerleader.
One of the courses I developed at the university was the senior capstone course, where each student had to create a mock NIH grant based on a real-world problem. They had to develop their own hypothesis, specific aims, and propose evidence-based methods to test these aims. As an advisor, I was there to guide and encourage them, acting as a sounding board and helping them achieve their goals.
But when it comes to my own ideas, I tend to be my harshest critic. A particularly painful episode was when a superior once told me I was worthless during a time I was on medical leave. That devastating comment stuck with me for a while, making me question my self-worth and stifling my creativity.
However, during my recovery, I decided I was worth more than their criticism. I put in my notice and made a career change—no looking back! The song “No Time For Toxic People” is now my anthem as I moved forward with newfound confidence and determination.
No Time for Toxic People!
Working in my own company now allows me to be choosier about who I let into my day-to-day life. This change has been transformative. I’ve noticed a significant boost in my creativity. I get to choose the projects I work on, giving me more time and flexibility to be with my family—my top priority. The freedom to cultivate my own ideas without toxic influences has been liberating.
Speaking of toxic influences, avoiding them has become a crucial part of my strategy. I’ve been fortunate to leave behind the negative environments of the past. As I have mentioned, at a previous job, my superior’s toxicity was a catalyst for change, pushing me to create a healthier, more supportive work environment for myself.
Interacting with Other Idea Cultivators
On the flip side, I actively involve those who encourage and support me. My wife is a constant source of constructive feedback and unwavering support. Surrounding myself with people who love new ideas and offer valuable insights helps me stay motivated and creative.
Today’s task reminded me of the importance of nurturing my own ideas with the same enthusiasm I offer to others. By believing in my self-worth and surrounding myself with positive influences, I can continue to grow as an idea cultivator, both for myself and for those around me.
As I continue this creative bootcamp, I’m excited to see how these insights will shape my journey. Stay tuned, keep your minds open, and let’s continue this adventure together!
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