How I Write

Derek Sivers: No Wasted Words

Sep 20, 2023

Derek Sivers, a musician, circus performer, and founder of CD Baby, talks about finding his best ideas, writing a posthumous autobiography, and the paradox of life. He explores the impact of writing on preserving memories, the struggle with writing every day, the importance of observation in creativity, the habit of taking notes, selling books independently, reaching out to authors, and the value of podcast connections.

01:11:34

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Episode guests

Derek Sivers

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Quick takeaways

Putting one idea at a time out into the world allows writers to refine their thoughts and gain insights.

Writing preserves wisdom and ideas beyond one's lifetime, ensuring future generations have access to insights and experiences.

Finding the balance between consistent writing and producing valuable content is crucial to maintain the initial excitement and spark of an epiphany.

Deep dives

Writing one idea at a time

The speaker advises against thinking of writing a book as a whole, but rather suggests putting one idea at a time out into the world. By focusing on individual ideas and allowing them to be shared and receive feedback, writers can refine their thoughts and gain insights. This approach emphasizes the importance of spotlighting each idea and ensuring its clarity and value independently.

Using Techniques to Enhance Creativity in Songwriting and Beyond

01:20

Simplifying and Methodical Writing Process

01:10

Creating opportunities through networking and self-esteem

01:14

Laughter is the sound of comprehension

01:20

Introduction

2min

Exploring the Influence of Personality and the Value of Sharing Thoughts

2min

Struggling with Writing Every Day

19min

The Importance of Observation and Writing

2min

The Habit of Taking Notes

17min

Selling Books Independently

23min

Reaching Out, Grant, and Reflection

4min

Expressing Gratitude to Authors and the Value of Podcast Connections

2min

It’s hard to capture in words the love and creativity that Derek Sivers brings to his work. He describes himself as a “monomaniac, introvert, and slow thinker.” But those words just reveal his humility.

Derek’s work has charmed millions — from his early days as a professional musician and circus performer, to founding CD Baby, writing fan favorites like Anything You Want and taking the stage at TED.

In this conversation, Derek shares how he finds his best ideas, why he plans to publish a “posthumous autobiography,” and why life is not a problem to be solved but a paradox to be experienced.

Website: sive.rs

Twitter: @sivers

Books:

How to Live: 27 Conflicting Answers and One Weird Conclusion

Anything You Want: 40 Lessons for a New Kind of Entrepreneur

Hell Yeah or No: What’s Worth Doing

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