The Extra 10%

For most people, the eight hours between 9am and 5pm doesn't necessarily feel creative. I'm continually reminded of all the daily encounters with tasks I am obligated to complete -- the car needs an emissions test; the lawn needs mowing; the basement needs cleaning. And to be honest, it's easy to spend all of my mental energy on completing those things.

We've all heard the "give 110%" speech a hundred and ten times, so that's not what this is. What I am encouraging you to consider is that, speaking from experience, creativity often comes to life or dies after the 90% mark. You've completed all the things that need to be done that day, and you'd like to do nothing but just hunker down on the couch. I believe those who use the last 10% of their energy on creating are the ones who will have the greatest number of opportunities for their art. When you're at the crossroads of calling it a day or checking the creative mailbox for inspiration, always get the mail.

Keep writing,

Ben

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