I hope you guys had an amazing weekend! Personally, over the weekend I released the date to the prelaunch of my project Little Illustrator. This project has been my focus for over two years, so to release it and allow it to take on a life of its own was exciting, fulfilling and a bit intimidating. But what most people would not know is, that it almost did not happen!
THE IN-BETWEEN PLACE
Like many of you, I find myself in a personal tug of war from time to time, especially when it comes to my craft. I cannot count how many mornings I would wake ready to write the day away, to then find myself slumped on my couch, with a bowl of popcorn at 1 a.m. and, have written only two words. I know, you may think this sounds like writer’s block – but nope! I would be mumbling my intended scene or prompt, with a clear focus on what I want to write yet, I just physically could not carry out the task. After a couple repetitive instances like the one I just described, I knew I had to pay attention to this very unproductive cycle. I call it getting lost within the in-between moments.
In this space, every fear comes into play and your inner critic begins whispering the negative what ifs into your psyche. Night after night I would fantasize on my project release, and each night the statements would get louder and louder. My personal favorite, “If this project does great what are you going to do then?”. I know I know; it is a strange critique and even stranger hindrance, but my inner critic was creative.
CHOOSE TO MOVE
So how did I move from holding a front row seat in the in-between place, to the ‘Critique the Critic’ side show, to now playing the starring role in my own life?
It was a combination of things:
- I had to make the choice that I had enough of the side show distraction
Actively choosing to end the stagnant cycle of buying into my inner critic, gave me the confidence I needed to move forward.
- Be honest about why my inner critic was so harsh
This one was reflective. On quiet analyzing it came down to one thing ‘FEAR’, fear of the unknown.
- Be honest on what I was expecting my impact to look like up to this point
This one was one I did not want to admit, but, I got lost in the current ideal that your impact is determined by ‘Likes’ and ‘Shares’. I had to reassess and take note of those people that DM me just to say “Thank you someone understands” or “Thank you, you are so inspiring. Keep it up”
- Open myself up and have authentic conversations about what I was going through with those close to me
I am not an open book, but honestly talk therapy is a thing and it works! Sometimes you need people that know you best, to remind you of who you are and what you capable of. I was no different. Talk therapy helped me rediscover my value.
- Sit with myself and breathe
Breathing and Meditating are paramount in my day. Taking 5 mins out for me to center and regroup is essential.
All these things brought me out of that in-between place. Not only did this process allow me to regain focus but I was reminded of my value, giving me the push I needed to take the next step with my project.
i may not be able to guarantee that my steps will work for you, but what I am sure of is this. We all go through something at some time. Whether you are lost within the in-between spaces or just overwhelmed, remembering your value will give you the confidence you need to get through it. Make no mistake, YOU ARE VALUEABLE and don’t you forget it.
