“Poetry is the use of intuitive and imaginative faculties of the mind to clarify the world in a fresh way. Poets help others break out of their perceptual ruts. Poetry is another way (like science) of seeing the world as it really is. But unlike scientists who must be trained, poets draw upon what everybody has – depths of feeling and awareness.”

It is healthy & creative occasionally, indeed regularly, to be jolted out of your routine perceptions of the world to see things differently and anew.

Doc Campus’ Halle Exchange under the banner of Positive Charge (linking it to the Health theme of this year’s Silbersalz science festival) focused on proven solutions and constructive approached in the film/tv and media sector. It was resolutely non- pessimistic – realistic but with well-founded hope.

“Laziness may appear attractive, but work gives satisfaction.”

Laziness or extended relaxation is fine and needed from time to time, but purposeful work is the simplest route to fulfilment. And striving for fulfilment is ultimately more important than striving for happiness or joy.

Setting aside shyness in particular circumstances is a good idea. Rather than pride and perspiration though, genuine interest in other people’s stories is the key.

We often don’t control or even influence challenges that confront us, but we always have a significant degree of control over how we react to them. That was the key lesson communicated in holocaust survivor Viktor Frankl’s book ‘Man’s Search for Meaning’.

Self-belief is a boon in most occupations, including creative endeavours, but not easily won. It’s arguable that self-doubt can also be a useful force in creativity to motivate you as you explore and maybe overcome it over time.

“I would love to live like a river flows, carried by the surprise of its own unfolding.”

There’s a lot to be said for going with the flow rather than always planning and controlling.

“Rivers know this: there is no hurry. We shall get there someday.”

Often it is worth savouring the journey, rather than fixating on the destination.

“Every act of creation is first of all an act of destruction.”

Quite often reacting against the preceding or taking apart the current is how creativity gains momentum.

“Even the darkest night will end and the sun will rise.”

There’s little in life that doesn’t end, including dark tunnels and challenging nights. Often simply hanging in and getting through will get you back to the light.