Chapter 1: The Journey Begins

In this piece, I'm embarking on an unprecedented journey of spontaneous writing. Without any predefined plans or structure, I intend to express my thoughts freely. My title will emerge only after I've finished writing.

As I start this process, I have no predetermined destination in mind. My goal is to focus on crafting one sentence at a time and exploring where this adventure leads me. Quality or popularity are not my priorities; instead, I aim to heed my inner voice and convey my message in the simplest way possible, without resorting to elaborate language.

Despite my apprehension about this uncharted path, I find it astonishing that I hadn't previously embraced such a straightforward approach. I'm curious if this method will invite any writer’s block or if it will foster a sense of openness, spontaneity, and wonder.

“Life is fleeting, and time is limited. What truly matters to me? What brings me joy and fulfillment? What do I hope to achieve before my time runs out? What can I do today to ensure my future self is proud?”

These reflections have consumed my thoughts since the pandemic began. I yearned for significant change but felt uncertain about how to initiate it. Yet, a sense of urgency bubbled within me—this was my moment to embark on a heroic journey in my own narrative.

The results of this journey are visible below. Here’s what I’ve managed to create in approximately 20 months:

Poster: “My Creative Journey”, Designed by Author.

Isn’t it fascinating to witness the organic progression of this article, free from any rigid structure? Even I am uncertain about what comes next, and there’s beauty in that unpredictability. Diving into the unknown feels akin to plunging into cold water—initially daunting, yet ultimately invigorating. It reminds me that anything is possible; I can express whatever arises and share my genuine feelings.

If you aspire to take charge of your future, pursue your passions, and fully utilize your creativity, the most effective strategy is to begin creating your assets now. Time is of the essence; you must act as if today is your only chance.

Creating your unique assets is the pathway to a fulfilling, productive, and enriching life. What do you genuinely care about? What do you dream of creating? Whether it’s penning a book, starting an online business, launching a YouTube channel, or composing music, don’t delay. Start within the next ten seconds. The only moment you have is this one—there's no guarantee of tomorrow.

Exercise: What Assets Do You Wish to Create?

Begin by listing everything you wish to accomplish in the next six months. First, engage in divergent thinking to generate an extensive list of ideas. Next, narrow your focus by selecting your top three priorities. Which creations resonate with you most? Which will yield the greatest satisfaction?

Chapter 2: The 30-Minute Method for Creation

To bring your visions to life, dedicate just 30 minutes each day to your craft. Lengthy hours are unnecessary; even short, consistent efforts can yield significant results. Start today with small, manageable steps toward your larger aspirations.

Since the pandemic began, this is the approach I've embraced, resulting in nearly 400 articles written on Medium. My goal has shifted to producing a minimum viable draft each time. By letting go of concerns about quality, I’ve conditioned myself to simply show up and write, one sentence at a time. It’s akin to conversing with myself, and soon enough, I find I can complete a short piece in under an hour.

Keep It Simple and Focused

After over a decade of procrastination, this straightforward method has proven exhilarating: begin immediately, keep it concise, converse with the page, and embrace imperfection. The decision to start now fosters a sharp focus moving forward.

Be Scrappy and Embrace Imperfection

Following a similar philosophy, I launched two YouTube channels and have created over 600 videos since the pandemic’s onset. I focused on storytelling rather than technical perfection, leading to a love for video production and daily uploads.

Experiment and Embrace Failure

I even ventured into TikTok, conducting small experiments regularly—whether filming videos, writing blogs, or engaging in spontaneous creative activities. Challenging myself daily pushes me beyond my comfort zone.

Stay Lighthearted: Embrace Foolishness

Perfection is unnecessary in any endeavor. It’s okay to create silly content or imperfect art. Let go of the fear of judgment from others and the burdens of expectations that have previously held you back.

Exercise: What Are You Denying Yourself?

Reflect on the opportunities or experiences you’re holding back from. List everything you're denying yourself and engage in the following reflective exercise:

Keep It Simple

I started this article without a plan, allowing my thoughts to flow. With no outline, I merely followed my instincts, focusing on simplicity and a conversational tone.

Listen to Your Inner Voice

Initially, my inner voice was timid, but it has now grown bolder and clearer. I question why I hadn’t adopted this method sooner. Writing without fear of criticism is liberating—it’s about self-expression rather than skill.

Key Takeaways:

• Don’t hesitate—act now. You have mere seconds to pursue your vision.
• Start today and create with urgency.
• Allow for imperfect work.
• Don’t take yourself too seriously; mistakes are part of the journey.
• Push your limits and confront your fears.
• Experiment daily and celebrate your failures as learning moments.
• Write as if you’re having a conversation with yourself.
• Dive into the unknown and discover what unfolds.
• Embrace chaos in your creative process; enjoy the mess.
• Life's brevity makes perfectionism and anxiety unnecessary.
• Celebrate your uniqueness; transform it into a strength.
• Simplify your life by clarifying your vision.
• Maintain focus on your top three priorities.
• Commit to showing up daily, regardless of motivation.
• Honor your inner voice and grant it space.
• Aim for a minimum viable product, art, blog, or video.
• Focus on the creative process rather than outcomes.

Incorporating foolishness, curiosity, flexibility, experimentation, and courage can lead to a personal renaissance. If you dedicate just 30 minutes daily, you’ll surpass the creative output of the vast majority of people.

Fahri Karakas is the author of the Self-making Studio. Discover more about his work here.