Thoughts on inspiration

Back in the day, when I was a naïve youngster, I used to think that good ideas came from thinking. Don't get me wrong, that's definitely part of the recipe. It's only that, just thinking doesn't get you very far. Lately, I have realized something:

Inspiration does not come from within.

I get inspired by talking and listening to other people. By watching a good movie. By reading an interesting article. By observing. Those are the times I get good ideas.

Occasionally I find myself in the mood for starting a new project, be it small or big. I sit and try to come up with a good idea - it could be something to code, something to sell, or something to do. Rarely that thinking amounts to anything. If you experience the same thing, I have one tip. Stop thinking. Go catch a movie. Grab a beer with a friend. You'll know a good idea when you have one. Meanwhile, relax. Watched water does not boil.