J.R. Johnson

Looking for an unexpected way to find interesting and creative story ideas? Creativity expert Keith Sawyer has a suggestion.

The Creativity Hack No One Told You About: Read the Obits

Here’s how you can use the obituaries to enhance your creative cognition.

First, start by reading them slowly, without searching for a big idea. Let the details wash over you — the places lived, the professions practiced, the odd hobbies pursued. Notice what sticks.

It’s not just about learning new facts, of course — it’s about asking questions.

There’s more to this idea than just skimming the paper. Want to know more about how to enhance your creative cognition? This article can help.

“…research shows that distant analogies often lead to creative breakthroughs, often in unexpected ways. What you’re doing is filling up your brain with a range of very different cognitive material.”

As you read the obits (or watch TV, or stroll through the neighborhood, there are lots of options), start by asking questions. Get a sense of the who, what and where, then look for the why and see where it leads.

To your next story, I hope!

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