Daily Inspiration Series: Kurt Vonnegut’s Advice for Growing Your Soul | About Boulder County, Colorado

In 2006, students at Xavier High School in New York contacted various authors, including famous science fiction writer Kurt Vonnegut, then 84 years old. Despite his reluctance to make public appearances due to his age and appearance (“looking like an iguana,” as he humorously put it), Vonnegut responded warmly to the students and their teacher, Ms. Lockwood. He imparted not only inspiring wisdom, but also practical exercise that has value for all. Vonnegut’s message emphasized the importance of personal growth, suggesting a simple but profound way to enrich one’s soul.

He said:

“Practice any art, music, singing, dancing, acting, drawing, painting, sculpture, poetry, fiction, essays, reporting, no matter how good or bad, not for money and fame, but to experience becoming, to discover what is within you, to grow your soul. Seriously! I mean, start now, make art and do it for the rest of your life. Draw a funny or nice picture of Mrs. Lockwood and give it to her. Dance around the house after school and sing in the shower, etc. Make a face in your mashed potatoes. Imagine you are Count Dracula.

He also asked the students to go home, write a six-line poem in rhyme and…

“Tear it into tiny pieces and throw them into widely separated trash cans. You will find that you have already been gloriously rewarded for your poem. You have experienced becoming, you have learned much more about what is inside you, and you have grown your soul.”

Here are two practical tips inspired by Vonnegut’s wisdom:

1. Engage in creative expression: Take time each day to engage in whatever art or creative expression speaks to you, whether it’s drawing, writing, singing, dancing, or any other artistic endeavor. The goal is not perfection but the experience of becoming more in tune with yourself.
2. Reflect and write: Spend a few moments each day reflecting on your thoughts, feelings, or experiences through writing. This can take the form of a journal, poetry, or simply jotting down your observations. Writing helps you discover deeper insights about yourself and contributes to your personal growth.

By incorporating these simple yet profound actions into your daily routine, you can follow Vonnegut’s path to growing your soul through creativity and introspection.