Inspiration vs. Perspiration: The Creative Tug-of-War

Do you prefer the dance of inspiration, or the results from perspiration? 

I have a strong, personal preference for inspiration, as it always feels like a spark of magic. Ideation is like an effortless dance that sweeps me off my feet, whispering possibilities into my ear. I could spend every hour of every day in this enchanting state - going down rabbit holes, looking for connections, creating new frameworks to explain the multiverse of business, leadership and life. 

There is only one drawback (which happens to be a big one!). While inspiration is the spark, it doesn't manifest into reality without its equally important partner: perspiration.

Which requires a different type of effort: design, detail, execution, collaboration, feedback, and optimisation.

For me inspiration is fast and exhilarating. Perspiration is hard work: it requires discipline and intentional effort. But it's so necessary for wrestling inspirational ideas into tangible existence: so they can be improved, shared, applied, integrated and ultimately create value (beyond my own mind!)

As individuals, we often find one easier than the other, but both inspiration and perspiration are equally important. But I strongly prefer inspiration. 

So I purposely hack myself.

When I get to five ideas (they come easily!) I force myself to choose the best. Then I discipline myself to develop this into an executable output, that can be used by someone else. 

I don't allow myself to generate any more ideas - until this is done. I even have an accountability buddy ( Nina Christian) to ensure I stay on track. 

It's the "tough love" discipline I need to create higher value from my ideas. To make them shareable with others. To impact the world. 

If you prefer "doing" or perspiration, then you can reverse engineer this. For example, after 5 significant tasks are done, step back and ask "what is an idea that could make this bigger or better? What is missing that could take this from good to great?" (No more doing until you reflect and create).

Do you lean more toward inspiration or perspiration? Do you know how to game your strengths and motivation? 

Ultimately, what self-hack will help YOU create even higher value?