The central theme of the book, “Steal Like and Artist” by Austin Kleon is the fact that all creativity is based on what has come before.  It’s not about blatantly copying what others have done but it is about being influenced by their ideas.

Every great musician would tell you they started learning their instrument by listening, and copying, the style of other musicians.  This is how musicians pass along who they are to the next generation.  At some point, you begin putting your own spin and influence on the work and then a completely new style or musical form is “created.”

One way to gather the ideas of others is to read; anything and everything.  Surround yourself with business books, literature books, leadership books, poetry, fiction, biographies.  If someone asks, “Have you read all these books?” you can say “I hope not, that would be tragic.”

Inspiration comes from weird places.

Blogging Gazelle is published daily by Shawn Carson

• Inspiration