Curate Your Cabinet of Curiosities—Let Your Influences Shine and Connect You

Many creators mistakenly believe they must keep their inspirations secret, as if originality springs from a vacuum. But the best thinkers and makers, since the Renaissance, have displayed their influences proudly—creating 'cabinets of curiosities' filled with books, trinkets, music, and oddities collected from the world. Today, you can do the same, both on your wall and online, curating a visible web of what energizes you.

When you post about the album that helped your last painting, admit your love for an out-of-fashion cartoon, or shout out the blog that clarified a confusing topic, you create rich context for your audience. These connections signal what makes your perspective unique and attract people who share your tastes (or want to learn more). Giving proper credit and linking back not only honors your sources, but creates a trail that others can follow, making your learning process transparent and your influence contagious.

Behavioral science backs this: Social learning flourishes in networks where credit is given, and openness builds trust. Collections and curation literally map the shape of your mind—what you value, how you synthesize, and why others might want to follow your work. Never feel shy about owning your sources, and never hoard your influences. As your cabinet expands and evolves, so does your public reputation as a curious, generous connector.

Take a moment to physically arrange or digitally post items that inspire you—books, links, quotes, anything that lights a creative spark. Don’t filter out the quirky, weird, or supposedly 'low-brow' favorites; let your taste show proudly. When you share, always add a note about who made it and why it matters to you, including links so others can take their own journey. The more honest and connected your influences, the more you’ll attract your own circle of passionate, like-minded people.