“I don’t have any new ideas”

This thought stopped me from writing.

Yet, most writing isn't original.

Learning how to steal ideas is an important lesson I learned as a writer; a lesson I first learned as a bboy.

Here’s how to steal ideas like a breakdancer

1/ A core concept in breakdancing is taking inspiration from other areas and adding your own “flavor” to it.

Breakdancers would study moves/styles/routines in a variety of disciplines such as karate, gymnastics, and salsa. Add their own approach to it, and make it their own.

2/ Take brazilian b-boy, @_neguinism

His style is influenced by capoeira - a Brazilian martial art. You can see this in his moves: it’s distinct, and reflective of his culture, yet looks like breakdancing.

But there’s a difference between inspiration and plagiarism.

3/ When you take inspiration from somewhere else, it's important to acknowledge it, respect its origins, and add your own style to it.

Outright copying another bboys signature move is called biting and that’s looked down on in the community.

4/ Most breakdancers don’t create any truly original moves. Their approach to the moves, the attitude, their style that’s what makes it original.

The same is true for writing. Most writing isn't original but rather they explain ideas and concepts with a unique voice.

5/ Take for example, @moretothat piece Travel is No Cure For the Mind https://moretothat.com/travel-is-no-cure-for-the-mind/

6/ I loved the piece, but the idea wasn’t anything new. It was inspired by Seneca’s letter on travel https://bit.ly/3flN2c6 

The author didn’t say anything original, but rather took an existing idea and added his own unique spin on it.

7/ Yuval Noah Harari’s popular book, Sapiens, wasn’t a new idea either @david_perell https://twitter.com/david_perell/status/1285806129721667584?s=20

8/ Whether you’re breakdancing or writing, take inspiration from everywhere.

Understand and respect where it comes from.

Add your own flavor to it.

And make it your own.