…or perhaps the result of an active mind.
Normally, I can fall asleep within a few minutes of hitting the pillow. Even when I’m being extremely productive during the day, it is easy to fall off immediately. However, I have a rule that has served my creativity well: If I’m still awake after a half hour of lying there, I get up and go back to work. I find those times to be very productive. I take care of things that have been left unfinished, or test out some new ideas that have yet to be explored. The hours before the sun comes up are really magical. If you’re asleep and dreaming, obviously that’s true, but if you’re awake and making art, or trying out new techniques, things will happen that you’d never expect. It’s a good time to play. Keep your eyes open to accidents and intuitive voices.
It could very well be that the reason sleep does not come right away is that the creative process needs to be engaged. It’s ready and willing to get to work. Go for it. Laying in bed trying to sleep will only make you tired in the morning with nothing to show for it. You may as well be tired and have something accomplished.
One Comment
good advice. my dilemma is waking up way too early and generally I have to read to pass the time. Lately, I get up and write or meditate. Early morning brings orderly thought, not necessarily creative, but clarity of thought. These clear messages often help me problem solve.
D.