Creative Experiment

In my upcoming book, I am looking at ways to inspire creativity. And I am finding that one of the best ways to do this is by going out into nature for an extended period of time, and then following that up by retreating to a private workspace for another extended period of time.

 

I’m calling this the “Outside In” method

​

As part of my research, I’ll be using this two-step process myself, many times over—and documenting the effects on my own creativity. But I am also inviting volunteers to join me in this creative experiment. It’s a chance to have a direct, participatory role in the creation of the book—and perhaps be featured in the book yourself, because I will probably describe the experiences of some participants, if they’re up for sharing that.

​

Most important, though, the people who participate in this experiment may find that it has a profound effect on a particular project, idea, or problem they’re working on. Participants may find that they are able to generate new ideas or develop better creative work habits.

​

So what is needed from you for this “Outside In” experiment?

​

• A day of your life.

• An idea or creative project (or maybe just a “beautiful question”) that you’re willing to spend two blocks of time thinking about and working on.

  • On the day in question, choose and go to a place in nature where you’ll spend at least two hours thinking, walking, wondering, and taking notes, with a particular focus on the idea, project, or topic you’ve chosen.

  • Later that same day, go to a private workspace to work for at least 3 hours, uninterrupted, on the idea/project in question.

• Report back to me on results: what happened during the “outside” part, how productive were you during the “inside” part, what did you accomplish overall, and what did you learn from doing this activity.
   

For those participating, I’ll provide additional guidelines in advance that will:

• Help you as you’re trying to choose your project/idea

• Enable you to get the most creative benefits out of your time spent in nature and your time spent in the workspace

• Offer tips on how to assess and document your results
   

If this sounds like something you’d like to participate in, drop me a line and we can discuss.

​

All those who end up participating in the experiment while I’m in researching and writing mode (through spring 2026) will get a mention in the book. But the real payoff may be a positive change in the way you tap into your creativity and bring your ideas to life.