Chapter 1: Introduction to Creative Exploration

In this article, I’m embarking on a journey over 12 days, sharing a series of one-minute exercises designed to spark your creativity. This marks the tenth installment of the series (check out the first nine articles here, here, here, here, here, here, here, here, and here).

Grab your pen and notebook! Begin by sketching a flower with 12 petals. Your task is to envision a life devoid of financial constraints, aiming to infuse more color and joy into your existence. Utilize divergent thinking to brainstorm 12 activities that would bring you happiness, excitement, and a sense of purpose. These could include hobbies, side projects, or any pursuits that ignite your passion. Regularly planning these activities is essential for creating anticipation in your life.

Reflect on these questions: When was the last time you truly had fun? How can you reintroduce playful moments into your daily routine? What new adventures await you? Are there destinations you wish to visit, hobbies you want to explore, or passion projects you long to start? Consider how you can cultivate a life brimming with surprises, joy, and entertainment.

Image Created by Author

Chapter 2: Personal Reflections on Joyful Pursuits

For instance, here’s how I've applied this exercise in my own life:

1. Teaching as a Passion: My greatest passion lies in teaching. I aspire to develop inspiring educational experiences for my students, experimenting with innovative techniques and fresh perspectives. My focus will be on creating practical exercises that foster creativity and asset development, aiming to host some of the most impactful workshops available.
2. Writing Journey: Writing on Medium has become a vital part of my lifestyle. I plan to continue crafting articles that inspire me, using them as a foundation for future projects. As I expand my library, I envision an ecosystem of e-books and digital products on GumRoad, allowing me to grow as a global writer.
3. Travel Aspirations: I dream of exploring fascinating destinations like Europe and Asia's historical towns, immersing myself in local culture, cuisine, and natural beauty. With exciting itineraries in mind, I hope to balance work with travel in the years to come.
4. Lifelong Learning: I'm committed to pursuing new knowledge. I’ve compiled a list of topics I’m eager to explore further.
5. Birthday Challenges: At the start of the year, I set 43 personal challenges for myself. While I recognize it may take longer than a year to complete them, I'm willing to invest the necessary time.
6. YouTube Ventures: I intend to continue my YouTube journey, focusing on enhancing the quality of my content and experimenting with new formats. If my enthusiasm permits, I might also engage with TikTok.
7. Creative Doodling: Doodling and journaling are integral to my daily routine. I dedicate at least an hour each day to these activities, which I find therapeutic and invigorating. Missing this time feels like a lost day to me.
8. Micro-Entrepreneurial Projects: I aspire to embark on small entrepreneurial endeavors, creating innovative content in areas like work, creativity, storytelling, and asset generation. These projects bring me immense joy.
9. Embracing Playfulness: I aim to incorporate more fun and laughter into my life, engaging in activities for sheer enjoyment without any end goal.
10. Curiosity-Driven Workshops: I hope to develop workshops and books around topics that fascinate me.
11. Artistic Expression: I’m eager to explore various artistic mediums and forms of expression.
12. Welcoming the Unknown: I wish to embrace the unexpected, making space for exploration and curiosity. I might even consider writing a book or hosting a workshop centered on the power of uncertainty.

Now, it’s your turn! Take a moment to engage in this exercise—spend just 12 minutes to jot down your 12 ideas. It’s a rewarding experience that can transform your perspective.

As I continue this series over the next few days, I hope you find inspiration in these creative challenges. Just two more exercises to go!

Fahri Karakas is the author of "Self-making Studio," "If Life Gives You A Squash, Squash It!," and "99 Creative Journeys: Unleash Your Imagination." He is passionate about doodling, creativity, asset generation, and the future.