Dream Power ☁️

Hello friends!

I hope you're enjoying this Serial Maker newsletter! Thanks for the feedback on last week's issue on pricing. If you missed any of the past editions, make sure to check them out. And if you know someone who might benefit from this newsletter, please forward this email to a friend. 😀

Historically, inspiration was considered to be a gift from the gods. Inspiration is something beyond our control, situated in the unconscious mind. It comes in dreams, when we least expect it. But there are ways to harness that chaos and capitalize on our creative mind.

This issue is all about dreams ☁️
 

TLDR

• Keep a dream journal

• Get an adequate amount of sleep

• Let your mind wander

The Dream Journal

Have you ever struggled with a coding problem all day, then in the middle of the night, long after you forgot about it, the correct solution comes to you in a dream?

Ever think up a brilliant idea for a project as you're falling asleep, only to have it disappear from your memory in the morning?

A dream journal will help you remember your dreams. It's simple. Just keep a notebook/sketchbook/napkin and pen on your nightstand, and anytime you think of something worth remembering, write it down.

My first year of art school, students were required to keep regular dream journals, and to create something each week based on a dream. It's a fantastic exercise in creativity. After a couple weeks of doing this, you start to realize just how creative your subconscious mind can be. Silvia Bastos has some great tips on how dream journaling can unlock your creativity.
 

You Need To Sleep To Dream

You're not going to have many creative dreams if you're not getting enough sleep. 7-9 hours remains the recommended amount of sleep for adults according to the National Sleep Foundation.

I find that when I'm sleeping an adequate amount at night, I tend to remember my dreams. When I'm short on sleep, it's dreamless sleep.
 

Daydream

I'm a relentless daydreamer— probably to a fault. But it's important to make time for daydreams. Find activities where you can zen out. Doodling is a great way to let your mind wander. Some of my best ideas come to me when I'm doing something mechanical or monotonous:

• Cooking

• Cleaning dishes

• Yard work

• Driving— don't lose too much focus here ;)

• Folding laundry

• Training/exercising

Meditation is another intentional way to let thoughts flow freely. Let your mind wander, and don't forget to write down your awesome ideas!

Keep making, and thanks for reading! 🙌

Hit reply to tell me what you're making. I'm looking for anyone interested in talking about their own side-projects and maker journey, so speak up if you'd like to appear in Serial Maker. I'd also love to know what you thought of this issue, and what you want to hear about in the future.

Until next week,

Craig