I’ve been stuck lately. Seriously
handicapped in my ability to create, because in a creative field like writing,
everything I do, everything I produce, comes from inside of me. My head, my
heart, my innermost-hidden soul. And, um, turns out, it’s hard to dig into my
hidden soul when I’m trying so hard to just function in this entirely new
environment.
It’s a problem.
I’ve tried a lot of tricks that have
worked for me in the past. Working out. Going for a drive. Shopping. Long
bubble baths. Walking on the beach (which is new, and usually the most
inspiring thing I can think to do). Yeah. Not so much.
And then…
In cleaning off a shelf, I came
across my to-be-read pile, the one that has grown enormously since I moved, due
to the fact that I also haven’t done any reading. And I thought, “hey, can’t
hurt.” I picked one by an author who has always inspired me to be a better writer,
and I read a page. Then a chapter.
And I remembered all the reasons I
am inadequate, all the reasons why I will never write something so amazing as
what this author writes, and all the reasons why I should probably bury my head
in the sand (now that I live by a beach) and quit.
Then I opened my computer and got
back to work.
Because I also remembered that the
reasons I will never write the way that author writes is because I am ME. And I
can write something incredibly amazing and wonderful, but absolutely different
from her. I have the ability to do great things and to be awesome, all by
myself. And I am the only one who can figure out how to overcome my issues and
be better, be artistic and profound and better than remarkable.
I can be adequate.
It’s my choice.
And yours. Choose to be adequate.
And get back to work.
5 comments:
Just what I needed to hear Nichole! Great post!
Great job, Nichole. I hope you have your creativity fully flowing now.
God, I miss you. Seriously. There is no one in the world like you. I know I didn't see you every day and we didn't hang out a ton but there is a serious VOID where you were.
On a happier note, you're MORE than adequate, Nichole. You have a power that only you have. You have a voice that's yours alone. You're so much better than you realize.
On a last note, I'd love to know which author inspires you like this. I'm always on the hunt for new, good books.
Aww, beautifully said!
I just had to comment because I've been feeling a little lost in my own new environment, moving almost opposite you--from Texas to Idaho. It's not always what I expected and it's difficult to find your place in a new land. I am struggling to find those new places that will inspire me--a treasure hunt of the heart and soul. Thanks for your reminder and best of luck to you as you adapt.
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