Too many things in life distract us from tapping into what makes us happy. I’m not saying this as an excuse. I’m saying this because this is what I truly believe. For me, it began right around second or third grade when the idea of splattering some paint on a canvas or making a funky-fun noise turned into something that ‘had to wait’ – in kindergarten, I did stuff like that in a split-second…without any worries or fear of fingers pointing at me.
And why would I…?…come to think of it, why would anyone? We were discovering, learning, stumbling and enjoying life! In between then and now, we got schooled on being a ‘grown up’ – responsibilities, taxes, bills, etc. They all get in the way of that five-year old that would create something entirely unique or blurt out some random noise that *sounded* great.
It’s hard to tap into that kindergarten psyche. Some people get those moments of inspiration from nature, paintings, cities, actions and yes……music. It is with this in mind that I’d like to share with you some songs that have helped me recently get to that little kid that made sure to wear his favorite green Kawasaki t-shirt on his inaugural day of first grade – just because of the way it made him feel:
- Jill Scott – Hate on Me
- Big Damn Band – Two Bottles of Wine
- The Heavy – Not That Kind of Man
- Scissor Sisters – Take Your Momma
- Perry Farrell – Song Yet to Be Sung
Some inspiration came from the songs themselves… some came from the videos…some came from both. But music has often worked in helping me step outside of myself to just enjoy the moment…which has, ultimately, given me a breather from life and some quality time with my creativity. Doing this has helped me for years.
I kid you not.
It has helped me with things like finding a solution to client issues much quicker, drafting up a much stronger press release and whipping up a pitch letter with alot more ‘umph.’ It works. I have found that when you just push away from your work for some time (be it five minutes or even five days), it gives you a chance to soak in some outside perspective – it could be a conversation with your favorite aunt, a quick game of Donkey Kong, a jam session on Wii Rock Band, whatever. You will inadvertently use this outside influence in your work…for the better.
What helps you tap into your Kinder-Psyche…?
I love that you posted this today because my daughter turns five today. She woke up this morning and said, “daddy, I slept great, just like a five-year-old.”
I have what I think is one of the best ways to tap into the Kinder-Psyche and that is with a real-life soon-to-be kindergartner. Trying to observe the world through her eyes has and continues to be a remarkable experience.
Being around kids is great for the professional in me too since I am in school communications because it reminds me of why I do what I do. Thanks for the post.
@vedo
Narciso, thanks for the post and the tunes, I will definitely check them out. You’re right, everybody has their own personal creativity “triggers” that they can tap into and it’s great to try new ones from time to time. For me, it’s mostly about controlling stress and staying calm and open, so that means yoga, as much time in nature as I can muster, and on weekends, naps with my son 🙂 That really gets me in touch with my inner kindergartner. I always said that if I ever had my own agency there would be mandatory quiet time at 2PM each day and everyone would roll out their mats…
Great post! I love the idea of the kinder-psyche- these days, everyone gets caught up in work & every day stresses and simply stops to smell the roses or enjoy what they’re doing. The kinder-psyche can definitely be an inspiration, and music, watching funny movies, and just goofing around with friends is a great way to unlock it.
I’m with you, brother. Music and de-stressing keep me going throughout the day. Some nice eclectic stuff there fella – time to kick back a little 🙂
Great choice in tunes! I love the variety in style and pace, which is imperative when making a play list. I love the idea of making a specific list of songs to listen to when you need that extra “oomph” of kinder-psyche. Next, we just need someone to pitch the idea of summer vacation for all adults! 🙂 Looking forward to your next post!
Thank goodness for Pandora, right?
I like to re-read some of my favorite books from childhood every now and then to regain some of the wonderment of my youth and help me get creative again. Quick reads like “The Indian in the Cupboard” or “The Westing Game” that I used to love in elementary school and admired for how cunning and creative the stories were help me to try and find some of that creativity inside myself!
[…] -“The Value in Kinder-Psyche” […]
[…] some groovy/funky/rocking tune-sharing. Pretty much in the same line of thinking as last week’s ‘Kinder-Psyche’ post, the following tunes are meant to help trigger a little bit of your own imagery and insight, […]