You cannot produce something interesting unless you are interested in something.

The quote above is from the book 'Think Like an Artist.... And Lead a More Creative, Productive Life by Will Gompertz. It is an interesting book that is full of wisdom that can be applied to all walks of life from the perspective of an Artist. The book discusses sculptures and painters and how they discovered more about themselves and developed into unique artists through a path that many of us take. When we live in a world of curiosity, ideas, plan B's and alternatives, as well as with an entrepreneurial spirit, continuing to challenge the world around us, we can create something new. I am still coming to terms with the ideas in the book and will indeed take some time to absorb the messages and write my personal review and notes, but the quote above stood out to me.
We must be at least interested in some of the things we do in life in order to find something worthwhile. Notice the sentence doesn't say passion, which is a word often overused. It simply says 'interest'. To be interested and create something interesting. So, what are you interested in that others aren't? Or if they are, why is your perspective unique?
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The book points out there is nothing new in the world. Most things that exist and come out as new could be creations and recreations of other older things. What is unique though is that this is our take on the world. This is why art, artists like singers and dancers are all relevant. We want to be reminded of old but excited by the new. Each time we see an Opera we are excited by what that leading artist will bring. This is the enduring value of art, but couldn't the same apply to your take on the use of SAP or the new management strategy of your company? We don't all have to reinvent the wheel and be artists but we do need to bring our mark to something. To do this we need to be interested.

Interest can be sparked by:

• A love or strong liking for the topic.
• See the detail in things
• Making sure you focus on the big picture as well as the small things
• Taking regular breaks to maintain energy
• Telling others about your work
• Seeking feedback
• Finding a mentor
• Understanding the impact of what you do

With time, interests change and we evolve so don't panic if your interest changes. This is natural. A few years ago I was heavily into cycling. Since moving country my interest was waned. I still cycle but not with the same vigour. That's ok. I have new interests including these posts. I cannot do everything but I can commit and remain interested in my current goals. Then go for a ride!