In a previous post, I wrote about how creating something tiny, like a drawing for instance, can show us just how distracted we are. By creating something tiny, we build focus. We might even achieve flow state.
Creating something large and majestic, on the other hand, can show us something different. Creating a larger piece of art does something more than build focus. It shows us our level of inner maturity.
Continue reading “Create Something Great”
Over the years, when I talk to people about mathematics, reading, writing, and even artistic pursuits, like painting and drawing, I encounter this block that says, “I’m not smart enough to do that.”
This idea of not being smart enough prevents many people from trying anything new. It prevents them from stepping out of their comfort zone. It prevents them from exploring new interests and skills.
Continue reading “Not Smart Enough? Or Just Afraid To Feel?”
Many years ago, a woman shared with me that she really wanted to paint more but her husband thought it was useless. I could see that she had an internal struggle about this. A part of her had the view: “To hell with it. I like it. Why must I explain myself?” Another part wanted to find some reason, or utility, for it because people around her required it. She could not allow herself to just paint.
Continue reading “The Utility of Art”
You don’t need validation. You don’t need permission. You can just create something.
You can just decide to switch off the conditioned voice that says that your art has no value, you will never be good enough, you will never make money, or whatever else it has to say.
Do this instead: find joy in the process of creating. Create from a state of presence.
I once heard Brandon Sanderson (author of The Way of Kings) tell aspiring writers that they should not think of their first novel as the product. Instead, he said, you should think of yourself as the product. His argument went something like this: The first book that you write won’t be good. No matter what you do. You don’t have enough skill to make it good yet. But each story that you write, makes you a better writer. And so, even if your first stories are not publishable, you can rest assured that you are becoming a better writer by writing them.
Continue reading “Create From A State Of Presence”