The Creative Seeds We Sow

The Comparison Trap

When we plant a creative seed…

Whether it's a simple idea that came to our head, or something more complex….

Ideas need time to incubate.

Just as seeds need safety underground to take root before they rise up to be tested by the elements, our creative ideas need nurturing before exposure to external comparisons.

1. The Germination Phase 🥚

In the earliest stage, our creative seed needs the proper conditions to grow to its potential.

It needs:

• a concept (seed)

• focused attention (water)

• the freedom to explore that idea to strengthen it (Warmth & Medium)

This is where we sketch out ideas, experiment with sounds, and allow ourselves to play without judgment catching the flow of creation, blocking our conscious influences on our work.

Like a seed drawing nutrients from its environment, we gather inspiration naturally, without forcing comparisons.

2. Developing Strong Roots ♻

As our idea begins to take shape, it develops its foundation, the core elements that make it unique.

It becomes tested by our own thoughts and opinions, and through the process of iteration, we begin to see the seed crack open as the core idea starts to surface.

This may be:

• a lyric that sends shivers down your spine

• a melody that makes you feel something real

• a groove that you can listen to over and over again

These often only come from the process of iteration.

The more you iterate, the less time ideas will take to germinate and take off.

These roots need time to strengthen before the seedling can push through the surface.

It's best to let this process take ample time…it shouldn't feel forced.

3. Breaking Through the Surface 🌱

After the process of iteration, we strengthen the idea to the point where it finally starts to pierce the surface and is ready to be tested by the outside world.

Only when our creation has developed strong roots will it be ready to be compared with other fully blossomed ideas.

This is like the moment a seedling first breaks through the soil…

it's still delicate, but it's ready to begin interacting with its environment in small doses.

4. Gradual Exposure 💨

A gust of wind…

a splash of water…

a mistaken step…

can end your sprout before maturity.

Instead of immediately comparing our emerging work to fully developed tracks, we can introduce reference points gradually.

Maybe we first look at:

• structure

• then arrangement

• then sound selection

one element at a time, like a growing plant slowly strengthening against the wind.

5. Natural Growth Patterns ♻️

Every seed grows at its own pace, and every creative project has its own timeline.

Rushing this process by forcing premature comparisons is like expecting a seedling to withstand a storm…

it's unrealistic and potentially destructive.

As we become better with our tools and familiar with the rules of genre, we'll naturally develop ideas more quickly to the point where they feel ready for evaluation faster.

6. The Mature Stage 🌲

Only when our track has developed its core identity can we meaningfully use reference tracks to refine and polish our own idea.

This is when it's best to use referencing for:

• Subjective & Creative Effects

• Mixing Decisions

• Processing and Production Techniques

• Mastering Sonic Characteristics

• Objective Loudness Targets

Like an old oak tree that can bend with the wind without breaking, our music can now benefit from comparison without losing its essential character or without us being deterred from taking our idea to the finish line.

Practical Applications ⚔️

Seeds need the right conditions to grow:

• Set specific "no comparison" periods during initial creation (Especially if you're prone to letting comparisons halt your progress.)

• Use references only for specific elements once the core idea is established (Be specific about what you're looking to compare)

• Create a safe space for experimentation in the early stages (Don't ask for criticism if you feel the idea doesn't have a foundation to stand on.)

• Remember that every piece of music, like every seed, has its own growth cycle (don't force it, but with practice, iterations will become faster and confidence will help establish roots more quickly)

It’s important that we give our creative seeds a chance to grow.

Given a concept, focused attention, and a safe space to iterate, we can develop deep roots and allow our creations to bloom.