Tags
art, balance, fraud, questioning, selfishness, strength, struggles, the war of art, weakness, writing
Over time I have found myself getting stronger, especially in my weakest moments. I am not sure I actually like myself some days because I hardly recognise the me I left behind. Often it is the case that in order to move forward one has to be selfish which is not something that I am comfortable with. It is as though my inner self comes to surface and fights with me! I am not sure who wins…
The line of balance is a delicate one. I wonder at my confidence level, at my ability as an artist, at my ability to communicate with emotion and effectiveness. Will exuding confidence come off as being brash (the English side asks politely) – Is it real or am I a walking fraud? And then I came across this which of course can either add to the confusion or put it to bed once and for all! Chances are it will figure itself out.
Steven pressfield book – the war of art
In spite of all that – I love life
Lesley, you have been nominated for the Super Swe-e-et Award @ Awakenings http://awakenings2012.blogspot.com/. I do hope you will accept the award. I am in the process of posting all nominees so if you go to Awakenings homepage and the badge is not first on the page, please wait a few minutes and try again. Hope you had a good weekend!
You are certainly NOT alone in your doubts and wavering self confidence Les. I have just emerged from my latest deep creative slump and every creative soul I know constantly struggles with that nagging little voice inside that says, “I’m not good enough”. I think this is just another part of the creative process and when the shadows dissipate the returning light brings new ideas and fresh approaches. Every problem comes bearing gifts…
John, you have cut right through to the thick of the matter here. I thank you for not only your understanding but for your uplifting final line. It really is reassuring to realise that every artist is halted at some points in their process and that those problems help to create the next gift. Gift is a perfect word.
I was following your story of the slump – and so relieved for you when it was conquered!
Keep on truckin’….
I am so glad you stopped by my blog so that I found yours. I have to tell you that what I have read so far resonates so much with me, especially this post. Was that picture of the seahorse taken at Puerto Vallarta by chance? We have been there and I just recently looked at a photo I had taken of a seahorse statue on the malecon. I love the Steve Pressfield quote as well.
I anxiously await your future posts.
Wonderful to see you here LuAnn. The seahorse shot was one I downloaded from morguefile.com (free photos that may be used without credit) so I am unsure of its origin but if you saw one in Puerto Vallarta it is likely there.
Thanks so much for your vote of confidence
A wonderful photo of enjoying life. I enjoyed viewing it.
BE ENCOURAGED! BE BLESSED!
Thanks Francine
Thank You for this wonderful post!
Glad to know you enjoyed. I suddenly feel not so all alone in my worries !
What a great photo! And what a thoughtful post that certainly struck a chord with me. Thanks for the reminder–it’s one I sometimes need to hear.
Don’t think–just DO–and your creative spirit will take over.
Tomorrow – I promise. I promise
What a reassuring post. I feel so much better now. Thanks!
Oh how true, self-doubt is a prerequisite to writing or where would we obtain our angst?
Yes the angst pushes the adrenaline level way up there. So right Len – working in the arts helps crush the normally very disturbing combination!