Experimentation Phase

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Once again, seeds = opportunities

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Seeds and experimentation go hand in hand, forming a symbiotic relationship that fuels the creative process.

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Experimentation itself is a journey with a starting and ending point.

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The starting point is the act of planting seeds.

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There are 3 periods in the phase of experimentation ↓

The first period is the most fun, riskless, and ruleless. There is very little at stake when you first start. Try as much as you can. Take on risk when you have fewer responsibilities at stake.

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Set up an environment where the decision-making happens free of the misguiding force of persuasion - Rick Rubin.

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This is an opportune moment to take risks and push boundaries, unencumbered by the fear of failure.

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The second period is the nurturing of the seeds with attention, focus and care (all 3 having their own purpose).

Each of these elements plays a distinct role in the nurturing process ↓

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Attention involves observing and assessing the growth and development of the seeds, acknowledging their unique characteristics and needs.

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Focus enables you to dedicate your energy and resources to the most promising seeds, providing them with the necessary support and nourishment.

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Care involves tending to the seeds with intention and mindfulness, recognizing that they require ongoing commitment and nurturing to thrive.

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The third period is the mix of choosing to focus on a few of the hundreds of seeds planted in the past few months, or even years and marking the end point of experimentation as you go into a new period in your life.

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Once again, as we go on with this guide, do keep in mind that when I say 'seeds', I mean 'opportunities' or 'pieces of your work'.

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Excitement

Excitement serves as a reliable guidepost when selecting which seed to focus on during the third period of experimentation.

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It acts as an internal pedometer, measuring the level of energy and enthusiasm you experience towards a particular seed (action and opportunity).

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Excitement is an energizing feeling that arises when you have a deep desire to explore and develop a seed further.

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As time passes and you reflect on your journey, you will start to see the dots connecting, understanding why certain seeds evoke that emotional response of excitement.

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This retrospective view provides valuable insights into the seeds that resonate with you on a deeper level, highlighting their potential for growth and success.

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Once the experimentation phase reaches its conclusion, a new phase in your creative life begins—the phase of crafting the seeds you have found valuable.

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Unlike the earlier phases where there was more openness and less at stake, the last phase requires a significant increase in effort and focus.

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Click the button below to move on the next lesson - Crafting Phase (Productization)↓