The Idea Blog

I was inspired by a TED talk I watched this morning.

Among other things, Bill Strickland is a survivor, but his creative power, I think, stems from his being able to vision new, tangible things rising out of his life interests and experiences. Take a half hour, watch this talk and then tackle something big, something challenging that needs a big dose of you. A plan, a speech, a personal website. A long letter to a friend or family member. Something that requires personal motivation, clear thinking and your own vision.

Frequent readers may have noticed a trend lately in my own interests, at least those often reflected here on the Idea Blog. I have highlighted more great stories and the art of storytelling. Some such as this one combine personal reflection with bigger thoughts and ideas. I’ve even attempted to inject more stories into my presentations, my longer conversations and even into after (or during) dinner banter. (A real hit in some circles.)The art of storytelling is magical, as vivid and welcome as the story itself. At its best it’s not a rambling list of sequential events, but a compelling weave of memories, meaning and mechanics.Finally for this post and from the pleasant coincidence department: I was pleasantly surprised by Strickland’s use of Herbie Hancock as accompanist. At a conference talk! nonetheless. Just yesterday I sampled and downloaded from iTunes Hancock’s River: The Joni Letters. Whether you like Joni Mitchell’s music or not (I do love most of it), regardless of his Grammy win for album of the year … give the jazz album your own sample. I think you’ll find another inspiration for yourself.

Person Bill Strickland

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