Seriously Random, Day 6

I didn't write as much as I had wanted to yesterday. I don't know if it was the constant wind blasting outside, or just bad timing. Some days are like that. I'll wake up early, my mind already creating new possibilities to write. I'll eat breakfast, expanding the storylines that are developing in my head. I'll shower and get dressed, my new characters having conversations and interacting all the while. I'll make a pot of coffee, sit down at the computer, and...  Where did it all go?
​But that's okay, because there are also days when I have no idea what to write, but I sit down anyway. I'll do a hundred other things first: check email, play an online game, redesign a part of my website. Anything but write. But, then, I'll open my latest work-in-progress, set my fingers on the keyboard, and suddenly a flood of new ideas flow directly from my brain to the page. It becomes unstoppable, as if I could walk away and the story would continue to write itself. Those days are magic. They produce some of my best work.
​You see, creativity is not something you can intentionally strengthen. It's not like specifically doing squats to build muscles in your legs, or push-ups to build upper body strength. You can't do a specific activity and get a specified result. That's why the best way to increase your creative potential is to play. To make believe. To dream. I've had some of my biggest breakthroughs while taking a nap than with anything else.
​That's my plan for today. The house is empty, the coffee is brewed. I did all my morning activities. So now I'll just start to play. I usually start by reading a daily affirmation card, or two, if the first doesn't move me. You can get them at book stores, or gift shops. There are thousands of different themes. Today I read a card that talked about being more aware of having healthy boundaries. I think I'll start with a story about that, see if I can create a whole new world of characters who are dealing with boundaries in some way. Who knows, maybe I'll find a whole new genre to write in.
​Anyway, enough of that. I think I made my point. Besides, these posts are supposed to be purely random, not logical and structured or well thought out. Just the casual wanderings of an overly active and creative mind that has recently been freed from the tyranny of holding down a day job.
​I've been thinking lately about getting a puppy. Maybe it's just that I could use a little company around the house while my wife is at work or coaching track. But then I remind myself how much work it is to have a dog, and I go back to just being alone again. I could get a cat, far less maintenance there, but I'm allergic. Which means I wouldn't be able to keep it indoors, so, what's the use. Oh, well, I still have all my characters to keep me company. Although, maybe I could cross-breed a puppy with a boston fern. That would give me either a really playful plant, or a dog that only needs a little water once a week and doesn't poop. ​Yeah, that's how random my thoughts can be at times. Which is why I think it's hard to stay focused and write some days. My mind wants to wander and play and create, and I'm in the middle of a funeral scene. Not the best time for spontaneous activity.
​Okay, one more cup of coffee, and then it's down to work. I want to get in at least 2500 words today, maybe more. I hope you all enjoy your Saturday, whatever it is that you find yourselves doing. As always, be well today!!
Michael Chrobak