"The purpose of life is to discover your gift.
The work of life is to develop it.
The meaning of life is to give your gift away."
...David Viscott
The Olive - Metaphor for a Life Well Lived - (Click to Preview)
My recent endeavor is a book about the love I have for the olive, and really everything associated with it. I knew there was such a metaphor to living life well, that dates back to the time humankind began eating and drinking, and the insights and attributes that are associated with the olive were over the top glorious is my opinion. I invite to to take a peak into this book; for a beautiful experience and wonderful insights.
I love creative process and a few years ago, 1990, to be exact, I had the wonderful opportunity to take a creativity workshop in Ojai, with the late Dr. David Viscott. It was a transformative experience and I really feel it laid the foundation for my creative work as a photographer (this was also the year I went into photography full time).
During this workshop I learned the value of creating a form of action board for myself - where you take an open folio, which you can place post its into, to chart your creative process for a project or idea.
The structure is you begin with an idea; a seed; something you're passionate about; you then ask yourself "why do I want to do this?"
You then set an intention. These three things were the jewels; for when they are created together they lay a foundation that cannot be thrown off course by other situations, people or events.
You then create an action plan where you develop resources and information needed to help you take the necessary steps to bring your idea or project through the creative process into manifestation.
You may have many projects in this folio, and it's a good way to keep track of your ideas. It's also great to review this folio on a regular (even daily basis), because it's really amazing what your mind activates, once it knows where you want to go.
David also said that your action board should have a project for the world - which would make our world a better place.
I have used this process many times, especially when I need more clarity and understanding of my projects.
