One of things I run across alot with young artists that I coach is this idea of comformity. To be clear, there’s nothing bad about that until it doesn’t allow you to grow.
We all have to start by learning. None of us comes into this world knowing how everything will play out, but we do have a say in who’s going to drive us through the processes.
Many artists-visual, musical, literary and creative in any way- reach their goals by coming to terms with who they really are. It’s not always painful, but it is always a journey through one’s own history, strengths and values. Those that don’t explore who they are have a tendency to need approval from others and satisfaction is based on external factors, thus they often burn out or lose their way.
We all have something to share, to express. Whether it’s to relate to others, to get out of our bodies or to find our tribe. Every one of us has a gift and something to say that someone else can benefit from.
In the early 2000s, I spent a year and a half writing poetry. I wrote three sets of poetry and lyrics, about 125 in all. I have only written a handful since then. I satisifed a need and was done. Now when I write a poem, its usually Haiku, just because they are fun to write, or to capture a beautiful moment in time like a morning at the ocean. I loved that time, although many of the poems expressed heartache, I was able to console myself with each word. When I read them now, I sense the pain I went through but I don’t carry it with me anymore. It was cathartic.
I am not a poet and maybe you aren’t either, but what could you do, artistically or otherwise, to go inside yourself and release the part of you that wants to shine and dance?
Take some time and shut off the noise around you. You are precious and gifted and you have a voice that is unique. Be brave. Share your gifts.
Find your voice. Someone out there could benefit from what you have to say and you may just make a difference.
Vanderslice Coaching 