Stages of the Creative Process

Stages of the Creative Process

Preparation: Becomes obsessed with the problem, collects relevant data and attempts traditional approaches.

Incubation: Does not actively attempt to solve the problem, but unconsciously continues to work on it.

(Doing the dishes by hand is my most common incubation step. Programming bugs and unsolved dilemmas seem to reveal themselves to me when I’m standing there up to my elbows in dish water.)

Illumination: Possibilities surface to the consciousness in a vague and unpolished form.

Verification: The idea is worked into a form that can be proven and communicated to others.

Happy Holidays!

Whatever your traditions this time of year, may they be filled with love, laughter, and family.  Peace and joy to you and yours.