NOW & THEN #04: POWER OF HABIT

 Saturday 27/2/2021

NOW & THEN #04: POWER OF HABIT
Dated on 27.2.2021

Let me begin by quoting Mr. Jordan Peterson: "Writing is formalized thinking." This profound statement resonates deeply with me, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, as it underscores the importance of writing as a tool for structuring thoughts and fostering clarity. It is one of the key reasons I have committed myself to writing regularly during these challenging times.

This morning, I watched a talk by Dr. Pavan on the *Seven Habits of Creative People*. His insights prompted me to reflect on Stephen Covey’s famous *Seven Habits of Highly Effective People*. The common thread between these two frameworks is the concept of *habit*. Habits are the building blocks of creativity and effectiveness, and they shape the way we live our lives. Recognizing this, I have made it a personal goal to cultivate the habit of writing by dedicating time every morning to jotting down at least three pages of whatever comes to mind. This practice not only helps me organize my thoughts but also allows me to explore ideas freely and spontaneously. After all, where else can I go during the Movement Control Order? Writing has become my refuge, my way of breaking free from the constraints of physical confinement.

Habits, as I see them, are actions we perform regularly and willingly, without external pressure or intervention. They are the things we do out of genuine interest or passion. Dr. Pavan emphasized the importance of taking our hobbies seriously, and I couldn’t agree more. For instance, I have developed a habit of taking photographs almost every day using my smartphone. Why? Because I find joy in capturing the beauty of the world around me—whether it’s a stunning landscape, a fleeting moment, or a meaningful event. When I take a particularly good photo, I share it on my social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter (X). Additionally, I maintain two blogs: one dedicated to *Adib Noh Photography* and the other focused on *Street Photography*. These platforms allow me to showcase my work and connect with others who share my passion.

By taking my hobbies seriously, I have not only deepened my knowledge of photography but also expanded my horizons. At 69 years old, I’ve found that engaging with younger generations through my hobbies has been incredibly rejuvenating. It keeps me connected to the world and helps me feel youthful and vibrant. What started as a simple hobby has now evolved into something more significant. I am currently working on a portfolio of portraits of Putrajaya, with the goal of publishing a book featuring these images. I also plan to sell prints of my photographs. While I don’t aspire to become a professional photographer, I strive for excellence in my craft. If someone appreciates my work enough to purchase it, I’m more than happy to share it with them.

Another crucial aspect of creativity is having an experimental mindset. Contrary to popular belief, you don’t need a sky-high IQ or membership in elite organizations like MENSA to be creative. An IQ above 110 is more than sufficient to foster creativity. Speaking of which, I once took a MENSA test and scored 1XX—not quite high enough to join their elite group, but certainly more than enough to excel in my engineering career. Creativity, as Dr. Tina points out, is driven by internal factors such as knowledge, imagination, and attitude. It’s not just about innate talent; it’s about cultivating the right mindset and continuously seeking to learn and grow.

One of my other habits that I believe contributes to my creativity is maintaining a personal journal. This practice began in 2006 when I received my first Moleskine notebook. There’s something about the aura and character of a Moleskine that inspires me to write every day. I can’t quite explain why, but it has become an integral part of my routine. Over time, this daily habit of journaling has expanded to include notebooks dedicated to my other interests, such as photography, sketching, and notes from lectures or talks I attend. These notebooks serve as repositories of my thoughts, ideas, and inspirations, helping me track my growth and development over the years.

We are, after all, creatures of habit. The things we do consistently shape who we are and who we become. This realization has also deepened my understanding of my faith as a Muslim. The practice of praying (*solat*) five times a day is not just a religious obligation; it is a habit that fosters discipline, mindfulness, and spiritual growth. In many ways, it mirrors the habits I’ve cultivated in my creative pursuits—both require consistency, intentionality, and a commitment to self-improvement.

In conclusion, habits are the foundation of a purposeful and creative life. Whether it’s writing, photography, journaling, or prayer, the routines we establish shape our identity and propel us toward our goals. As I continue to navigate the challenges of the pandemic and beyond, I am reminded of the power of habits to transform not only our daily lives but also our long-term aspirations. By embracing these practices, I hope to inspire others to discover the joy and fulfillment that come from living a life rooted in intentional, creative habits.



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