The creative process is a lifelong exercise in surrender.
As
artists, we accept that we do not have magical control over the world. We bow
to the universe as a chaotic and mysterious place that isn’t obligated to make
us productive and pay for our dreams.
We consent that humanity isn’t mature
enough to control the important things. And we embrace the fact that the only
thing we have power over is our discipline.
That’s the reality of our limited
control. It’s the daily practice of showing up every day and seeking what is
fresh and spontaneous and interesting in the same place we looked for it
yesterday.
The hard part is doing so
despite ideal conditions. Meaning, practicing discipline even when we don’t
feel like it.
Discipline even when we’re not having fun.
Discipline even when
the world screams that we’re wrong.
Discipline even when we see no point in
doing it.
Discipline even when we’re not at our best.
Discipline even when
nobody’s around to correct us.
Discipline even when we’re presented with
logical evidence that it isn’t working.
Discipline even when it’s inconvenient,
unpopular or uncomfortable.
Discipline even when we’re forced to continue
working without seeing results.
Discipline even when the data suggest there are
better ways.
Next time you start to feel the controlling instinct welling up
inside of you, instead of trying to white knuckle the world, simply release
your grip on life and just let the discipline carry you.
Soon, you’ll gain
confidence with smaller acts of control, and gradually work up to facing your
larger challenges.
LET ME ASK YA THIS…
How are you growing in your ability to be in control of yourself?
LET ME SUGGEST THIS…
For the list called, “99 Ways to Think Like an Entrepreneur, Even If You Aren’t One,” send an email to me, and you win the list for free!
* * * *
Scott Ginsberg
That Guy with the Nametag
Author. Speaker. Strategist. Inventor. Filmmaker. Publisher. Songwriter.
Never the same speech twice. Customized for your audience. Impossible to walk away uninspired.
Now booking for 2017-2018.
Email to inquire about fees and availability. Watch clips of
The Nametag Guy in action here!