Storytelling

At the beginning of the 20th Century Graham Wallas captured the process for having creative thoughts. Why? I guess because you can’t leave ideas up to a chance random shower moment when you need something at 9am on a Monday morning.

He based his thinking on the notes of various 19th century scientists, mathematicians and physicists, identifying four steps in total: Preparation, Incubation, Illumination and Verification.

His steps are a useful reminder that good ideas are based on process and despite the archaic language still rings true today. The book isn’t that long but if you’d like my short take, with a few added extras, read on:

Preparation. Clearly identify the issue and immerse yourself in the problem area. Read, watch, discuss and play widely.

Incubation. Take some time away and let all that research percolate. Do some admin, take lunch, a walk or, if time short, make a cup of tea. Remember, milk goes in last. This is the precursor to the shower moment and is important to let the brain do it’s unconscious prep work.

Illumination. After whatever simmering and absorption time you’ve had, write down 20 ideas in 20 minutes. The idea and time target helps focus. If possible, do this with a partner who has been a part of the process too. Don’t analysis or discuss the ideas as they come out, just write them down. Encourage ideas, leapfrog and build on them, be outlandish, be direct and on the nose, range far and wide. Don’t reject a partner’s ideas or you’ll kill the flow, just get them down.

Finally, Verification. It’s time to give those fledging ideas some air. DO NOT fall into the trap of polishing ideas until they are perfect. Everything should be disposable until it’s proven and that involves this reviewing stage. Present and discuss your shortlist with peers and stakeholders with the original problem in mind.

Whether you’re a coder, artist, narrative designer, writer or whatever it’s comforting to know that filling the blank piece of paper in front of you is only a few steps away.

I’d suggest finding Wallas’ book too. I mean who doesn’t like an old book? It’s in the internet archive for you digital kids as I guess it’s out of copyright.