Ask the Author: Clyde Boyer
Answered Questions (5)
Clyde Boyer
I'm currently finishing up my MS in Biomimicry from Arizona State university; one of the leading biology inspired design programs in the world. In this program I'm drinking from a firehose of disparate knowledge domains, from biology to cutting edge chemistry and materials design, AI, regenerative practices to ecological philosophy. I'm also part of the Institute For The Future's Urgent optimist program. These two lenses (biomimicry and futures thinking) really help shape my world view and desire to help build a better future. It also gives me an opportunity to imagine possible technologies, changes in society, and where we are headed as a species. So much fun!
Clyde Boyer
Well, I can tell you it's not the marketing or the mechanics of publishing a book. The absolute best thing about writing for me is finding a way to translate my inner world into something that can be shared. It's fascinating. You take something that never existed and give it substance and gravity. Of course, I can do the same thing now with AI (which I have been working with), but what's the fun in that? A close second is the research that goes into the book. Nothing helps you learn a subject like writing about it.
Clyde Boyer
Tiny Habits! I had the good fortune of spending time with BJ Fogg, who heads the Stanford Behavior Design lab. His book "Tiny Habits" provides, what I think, is the best approach to accomplishing goals. Build small habits that become routines. Write a sentence, or a paragraph a day after a brisk walk. Journal when you wake up or right before you go to sleep. These routines are tools that allow you to work through the paralysis of writer's block.
Clyde Boyer
Hmmm - this is a great question. I thought about writing for years. During that time I came to realize that "thinking about writing" and actually writing are very different activities. In fact, the act of thinking about writing may end up being counter-productive. There is a cognitive bias where the act of planning gives a sense of accomplishment. Our brains process that we've done something, and the desire to write is assuaged.
So, my advice is simple. Don't think about writing. Just write.
So, my advice is simple. Don't think about writing. Just write.
Clyde Boyer
I'm currently working on the sequel to Girl Out of Time that will take our cast of characters to far-flung regions of the globe. New ecosystems will be explored, new friendships forged and old ones tested, and a new menace from the future will be discovered.
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