I’m really liking this divergence/convergence model I learned from the inspiring and well-crafted book Building a Second Brain.
Its a very simple model for the creative process: at any moment you can be functioning in either of the following states of mind:
- the divergence state of mind
- the convergent state of mind
two vastly different states of mind
The divergent state of mind is the place for exploration, rampant ideas, starting new things, taking all the turns, whereas the convergent state of mind is the place for organizing, destilling, analyzing and executing.
These two items are not the same in any shape or matter whatsoever. They are vastly different. Just the simple act of being aware of what mode you are operating in at the moment makes all the difference. Now you can know if the process you are running is well-suited for your place in the great arc of the specific tasks in your project.
In my own experience, I have a predilection for the divergent state of mind. Keeping that tendency in mind and thus in check is proving to be extremely beneficial to my process and general sanity.