Hey there, fellow creatives! Let’s chat about something that’s probably kept many of us up at night: creative anxiety. You know that knot in your stomach when you’re about to share your work or that nagging voice in your head whispering, “Is this good enough?” Yep, we’ve all been there, imposter syndrome is real and can be downright debilitating!
First off, I’m sure we can agree that being creative is both exhilarating and downright terrifying? I for one, pour my heart, soul, and sometimes tears into my projects, only to wonder if anyone will “get it.” Constantly chasing the ‘perfect idea’ – spoiler: it doesn’t exist. Here’s the thing, perfection is a myth. It is an unreachable carrot dangling in front of us, making us second-guess every stitch, brushstroke, word, or note. The beauty in art is a personable thing and is very much in the eye of the beholder.
Can vunerability be our SUPERPOWER?
Opening up our creative souls to the world may feel like standing naked in Trafalgar Square – this may not be too bad for some of you but for me that nightmare would lead to several therapy sessions! But here’s a thought: What if we think of that vulnerability as our superpower? That raw, unfiltered essence that makes our work relatable, authentic, and downright captivating… now it’s not so scary.
So how can we help ourselves and each other when we start to slip into doubt? Here is my go to Survival kit for when I am going through artistic angst.
Establish a Routine:
Trust me, having a routine is like giving yourself a creative safety net. Schedule your “golden hours,” keep distractions at bay, and create a cosy corner where inspiration flows freely (this isn’t difficult for me as my creative space is so small)
Celebrate Imperfections: Repeat after me: Imperfections are my creative friends! Embrace those wonky sewing lines, puckered fabrics, and unmatched patterns. They’re what make your work uniquely YOU.
Give Yourself a Pep Talk: Yes, you read that right! When doubt creeps in, channel your inner cheerleader or call one of your most loyal fans. Remind yourself of past wins, shower yourself with affirmations, and remember: You’ve got this!
Embrace your quirks and trust in your creative magic!
Creative anxiety is like that unexpected plot twist in our favourite novel—unsettling yet essential for character growth. So, the next time self-doubt creeps in, remember you’re not alone in this journey. Embrace your quirks, celebrate the messy middle, and trust in your creative magic. After all, the world needs creatives like us with our successes and imperfections. Here’s to embracing the creative chaos and discovering our truest selves along the way.
