For many the first step in their creative process involves filling up with research about history, techniques, quotes and practices of noted masters. While these are valuable, my creative process begins with entering what I call the BlueSpace, the unknown where everything originates.

Entering the neutrality of an empty mind is my first step in creating the new. I temporarily set aside my training, preconceptions and conditioning. Readers might enjoy this easy seven step process to begin creative endeavors:

1. Sit comfortably, eyes closed, hands cradled – right under left, thumbs end to end.

     2. Breathe deeply; allow all thoughts to come and go; thoughts will slow, then stop.

     3. Place your right index finger at your center, mid-chest where the two sides of                      your ribcage meet.

     4. State your intentions to create (whatever) to benefit all concerned and your                          willingness to be guided.

      5. Wait patiently. Soon words, images or new awarenesses will flow into your                           mind.

      6. Observe all that comes in detail until the input is complete. 

      7. Prepare to begin designing, fabricating, writing, speaking, whatever.

After doing this it feels as if Creation itself is flowing through me. Whether I’m creating architecture, art, writing, preparing to speak, or involved with business or personal relationship matters, it works! Surrendering to emptiness yields unique solutions that benefit all. I love and celebrate the results in my life after traveling to the BlueSpace. This process is repeatable, therefore reliable.

Brain Science tells us that lateralization, shifting fluidly between right (creative) and left (logical) sides of our brain, depending on the task at hand, is an important skill to develop. Once I’ve completed my ritual tour into the right side of my brain, my BlueSpace, I shift back to my left brain where I can apply my training, skills and logic to produce and manage my projects.

Necessity to simplify the arduous and costly architectural design and production processes lead me to discover this pre-creative process. One night before sleeping, I sat in bed, closed my eyes and put my hands in my lap. Casually, I said to the Universe (or whomever), show me the design solution for our new project that best benefits all concerned. I went to sleep without any expectation. The next morning during my transition from sleep to awake, a 3D, photorealistic tour of the completed project played out in my mind. Amazed, I grabbed a sketchbook from my bedside table and quickly sketched what I’d seen. Later, at the office, one of my staff efficiently prepared a computer model of what I’d seen and sketched. The client loved it!   

This process is easy, fun and very rewarding. Perhaps you can employ it to co-create solutions to your personal challenges. Or maybe on your next trip to the BlueSpace, you’ll discover the solution to one of the lingering challenges plaguing humanity.  Never underestimate the value of Emptiness. Practice, practice, practice. Have fun with it!