This quote by Peter De Vries is a testament to the power of discipline, routine, and commitment in the creative process. It challenges the common notion that creativity or inspiration is something that just happens spontaneously, or is dependent on external factors or moods. Instead, De Vries suggests that inspiration can be summoned through discipline and routine.

“I write when I’m inspired, and I see to it that I’m inspired at nine o’clock every morning,” essentially means that De Vries doesn’t wait for inspiration to strike, but rather makes a deliberate effort to cultivate it at a specific time each day. He is stating that he has control over his inspiration, and he has trained himself to be inspired at a specific time. This implies that creativity, or in his case, the act of writing, is not solely a product of random inspiration, but can be a result of conscious efforts and structured routine.

In today’s world, this idea is particularly relevant. We live in a fast-paced society where waiting for inspiration to strike may not be feasible. This quote encourages us to take charge of our creativity and productivity, instead of being passive recipients. It suggests that we can train ourselves to be creative and productive at specific times, thereby enhancing our efficiency.

In the realm of personal development, this quote can be a powerful mantra. It encourages discipline, consistency, and the cultivation of habits that lead to productivity. It suggests that we have more control over our inspiration and creativity than we might think, and that we can harness these qualities through routine and determination.

Moreover, it also touches on the importance of mindset. By deciding to be inspired at a specific time, De Vries is engaging in a form of positive thinking and self-fulfilling prophecy. He believes he will be inspired at nine o’clock, and so he is. This highlights the power of our thoughts in shaping our reality, a concept that is central to many personal development philosophies.