When our kids were teens and able to go out on their own, we wouldn’t say, “be careful.” We told them, “pay attention.”
I don’t know if we were right or wrong as parents, but I will say our kids turned out to be pretty good and smart humans.
But this isn’t about our kids.
This is about you.
What are you paying attention to?
It’s so easy to drift through life and simply ignore and react.
But to grow, to make progress, to be creative, you have to pay attention.
Another quick aside. (Pay attention.)
I had the privilege of working with legendary singer-songwriter-band leader, Tom Petty.
I once asked Tom about how he writes a song. He was kind enough to tell me a little bit about his process.
He said, he does nothing for six months. Then, when he has a record to make, he “gets his radar up.”
He starts paying attention to the news, to what people are talking about, to phrases in the media. (This process is quite evident in a song like “Jammin’ Me,” have a listen.)
Once his radar is up, the ideas start flowing, he told me.
Getting your radar up — paying attention — this is part of the creative process. And a big part in how we can be there for others. And grow.
I offer this suggestion for you. Over the next week or so, grab a small notebook or use your iPhone notes and start scribbling down stuff you are paying attention to.
After a few days take stock: What are you noticing? Do you see themes? Are there things you wish to avoid? Is their stuff you really want to pursue?
I think you’ll be surprised and thrilled by what you see.
Do yourself a favor: pay attention to what you’re paying attention to.
I call this going through life like an old-time waiter.
Always walk around with your head up.
Looking for tips.
I've been switching up information resources lately. Opening up new trial newspaper or magazine accounts. The LA Times is better than I thought it would be, and San Francisco Examiner should be examined by no one. I've subscribed to The New Yorker once again after a long hiatus, which is still wonderful. I added my daughter because she is struggling with writing essays and I think this is no better place to learn the craft.