Mind of a Maker
A daily blog inspired by Matthew Dicks
“Every action you take is a vote for the type of person you wish to become. No single instance will transform your beliefs, but as the votes build up, so does the evidence of your new identity.”
To become better at something, you have to practice. What better way to become a better writer and storyteller than to practice by making a habit of writing daily?
In this daily blog, we’ll discuss Maker-related topics as well as what inspires projects, including YouTube videos, Movies, TV Shows, Disney, Star Wars, LEGO, Books, and more. Everything is on the table, and nothing is off-limits.
Disclaimer: The thumbnail images featured on this blog are often AI-generated. See Disclosure page for more information.
Analysis Paralysis
Overanalyzing everything keeps me stuck in a cycle of indecision and guilt, but this blog is my step toward breaking free—because living with "what if" is far worse than taking imperfect action.
Let the Epic Projects Begin - I Finally Got a 3D Printer
I finally took the plunge into 3D printing with a Black Friday deal, and I can't wait to start creating custom Star Wars-inspired greeblies—here’s why I’m excited and how I plan to make the most of this new tool!
I Love Movies
Movies have been a lifelong passion of mine, inspiring projects and shaping my creativity—now I’m diving into movie reviews, starting with a couple of recent releases and my all-time favorites like Star Wars and Marvel.
AI in Making Things
What if you had a personal AI assistant in your workshop—a Star Wars-inspired droid or Iron Man's JARVIS to help with measurements, inventory, and more? Here's how I'm exploring this game-changing idea.
My Kids’ Happiness versus Sleep
Choosing between sleep and bringing joy to my kids was an easy decision—Christmas came early in our house, and seeing their happiness was worth every yawn.
Essential Organization - Inspiration
Ever struggle to find that one photo or screenshot that sparked your creativity? I'm tackling this challenge head-on by creating an organized inspiration database—and once it's ready, I'll share the secrets to streamline your own creative process!
Overhead Lighting is Terrible
Ever wondered how to transform harsh, boring overhead lights into an immersive experience? Discover how Disney's genius lighting techniques—from textured shadows to animated wall panels—can inspire creative lighting solutions for your own space!
Procrastination Problems
I am really struggling with the vicious cycle of procrastination and self-loathing.
Too Much Input, Not Enough Output
Managing input, from external sources to my own thoughts, is an ongoing challenge, but finding ways to process it effectively is key to turning overwhelm into creative output.
It’s Beginning to Look Alot Like Christmas
Christmas lights went up early this year to keep my kids happy and extend the festive joy—sometimes, it’s worth breaking the timeline for a little extra holiday cheer.
Sketching to Improve Projects
Rediscovering my love for drawing, I'm diving into sketching to bring my ideas to life on paper and aim to improve throughout 2024—follow along as I share my journey and progress!
The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F***
The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*** by Mark Manson delivers a refreshingly blunt guide on focusing your energy only on what truly matters, with insights on meaningful problem-solving, internal motivation, and embracing life’s challenges to leave a lasting legacy.
Due Tomorrow = Do Tomorrow
If you struggle with procrastination until deadlines are urgent, you’re not alone—I’m testing new ways to overcome this habit and improve my consistency, and I’m sharing my process along the way.
Great Ideas, Wrong Time
Balancing the excitement of new ideas with the practicality of ongoing projects is challenging, but organizing ideas in My Second Brain helps me stay focused while still capturing inspiration when it strikes.
Solving The Problems In Front of Me, but Themed!
For as long as I can remember, I've loved solving problems, but I've found that a solution themed around my favorite things—like a Deadpool-inspired headphone stand or a Star Wars-themed desk—makes the problem-solving journey way more exciting and meaningful.
Good Days & Not As Good Ones Too
When struggling to start a task, I find setting a timer for just 25 minutes helps me overcome inertia, often leading to a productive flow—and I'd love to hear any strategies that help you get started too!
I Have Too Many Ideas
My project list keeps growing with new ideas from everywhere—Disney, Star Wars, YouTube, and more—so I use a "second brain" to document inspirations, track sources, and combine ideas into unique projects I’ll share soon.
Food Poisoning Is The Worst
A weekend packed with plans quickly turned into a lesson on the importance of rest and recovery when food poisoning derailed my schedule, proving that taking time to recuperate is better for productivity in the long run.
LEDs, Servos, and Arduinos, Oh My!
I've recently dived into microcontrollers like Arduinos to bring lighting to my projects, inspired by Star Wars. After adding LEDs to my tool cart and mobile workbench, I'm now aiming to integrate dynamic, customizable lighting across my workshop and home office. While I'm still learning, I'm excited to bring some "Galaxy's Edge" ambiance to my creative spaces.
I Didn’t Trick-or-Treat as a Kid
Halloween holds a special place for my family, but it wasn't always that way—growing up, I missed out on trick-or-treating, but discovering Halloween as an adult, especially with my daughter, has opened a whole new appreciation and inspired me to create themed decorations each year.