I’ve been working as a designer for about 14 years and teaching design for around 3 years. One mystery I’ve always faced is: How do we come up with that perfect idea? The one that solves all the problems, responds to every issue and answers all the questions.
It’s a complicated process. Teaching this to students makes me wonder even more: How can I help them find these ideas?
I’ve tried many approaches—structured processes, deep analysis, and brainstorming sessions. Sometimes they work, sometimes they don’t. Over time, I’ve realized that the best ideas often don’t come from careful planning. They come from somewhere unknown,and they usually appear unexpectedly after reflection. But when and how they arrive is unpredictable. After all these years, this uncertainty in the transition from analysis to that perfect idea still makes me uneasy.
Recently, while reading #Blink by @Malcolm Gladwell, a line stood out to me:
"Paralysis through analysis. When we become too reflective about the process, it often hinders our ability to apply it. We lose the flow. There are certain fluid, intuitive, non-verbal experiences that are especially vulnerable to this. As humans, we’re capable of extraordinary insights and instincts. We can hold a face in memory or solve a puzzle in a flash. Yet, these abilities are fragile. Insight is not a light bulb that simply switches on in our heads; it's a flickering candle that can be easily snuffed out”
This quote perfectly captures how overthinking the process can disrupt the creative flow. When you become too reflective, you can undermine your ability to act.
Architectural design, like many creative fields, relies on a delicate balance between analysis and creativity. Overanalyzing can stifle the spontaneity that often leads to breakthrough ideas.
What I’ve learned is that after deep analysis, it’s important to give the mind space to breathe. This is when intuition thrives, and ideas emerge naturally. For me, inspiration has come from walking the dog, an intense workout, a good night’s sleep, or even watching a thriller movie. The timing is unpredictable, but I’ve found it happens after allowing my mind to relax. Jumping straight into action after intense analysis can paralyze creativity and force ideas into rigid patterns. To break through, sometimes you need to step back.
My Advice
Don't rush.
After the analysis, give yourself the mental space to breathe and allow ideas to flow naturally. Creativity often appears in those quiet, unexpected moments, so always keep a pen and paper nearby. Remember, it’s just like a flickering candle that can easily be snuffed out.
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