What Does it Mean to be Original?

Does originality really exist? In some form, it does. We have people coming up with all sorts of new inventions every day. However, even with new inventions, we find that it is based on old ideas.

When I write blog posts, some part is original (e.g. my writing style), but other parts are fresh and new ideas. Does that make me an original writer, or someone who is inspired by other people’s writing? I say it’s a combination of both.

Rather than focus on being original, I think it’s best to try just being yourself. Let the words that come out of your mouth flow. Let your thoughts guide you. It’s okay to borrow ideas from others and to mimic others’ styles (within reason of course, because you don’t want to plagiarize or tread into copyrighted, trademarked, or patented ideas). Once you are focused on being yourself, you will have an easier time being “original”. Let the self-exploration begin! (;