Dealing with the U Word
It seems like we all have been taught that if we want to make a change in our life, first we should reflect, get super clear on exactly what we want, and then we can take some action. But, how are you supposed to get super clear?? The people you see taking risks and making big changes in their lives are not always the people who know in great detail what they want. They may know less about what that is than you! They're the people most willing to face uncertainty– that prolonged vagueness, that feeling of being lost without a map or a timeline. They may have a vision for what they want, but they aren't getting hung up on the details of how to get there.
But, don't you kinda hate uncertainty? The antidote isn't toughness or forcing yourself through. It's creativity. (There are a variety of different antidotes, actually, but I want to focus on creativity.) By creativity, I don't mean starting an art practice tomorrow or even one of those viral doodling challenges. I mean asking yourself “What makes me happy?” Those little things you avoid thinking about when you ask yourself that question are your breadcrumbs to an abundant and creative life.
Last week, I wrote about some of my favorite books for self-love and growth. Another fave, but slightly different genre, is Your Brain on Art : How the Arts Transform Us by Susan Magsamen and Ivy Ross. Magsamen and Ross write about how when some form of “the arts” becomes a more regular part of our lives, it can be a helpful tool in sorting through the ups and downs of our thoughts. They cite a study that shows that a regular art practice reduces our cortisol levels and can “improve our physiology by lowering stress hormone response, enhancing immune function, and increasing cardiovascular reactivity” (28). And, none of these benefits have anything to do with our talent.
So, what's the catch? You have to let go of the value judgments. Easier said than done, right? Yes, but, when you remove the valuation on the outcome and instead focus on the enjoyment of the PROCESS, then that is where the magic happens.
Well, whether you’re hoping to make a big change or actually just want to be creative for the sake of being creative, you’re offering your nervous system and entire body a cornucopia of benefits. Need help navigating uncertainty in your life? Or, figuring out how to listen when you ask yourself what makes you happy? Hit me up.
Bonus material: Check out this podcast, "How to Lessen Anxiety by Increasing Creativity” with my Creative Coach and Instructor, Nicholas Wilton and Martha Beck, one of the most highly regarded coaches.
Podcast Episode #160 How to Lessen Anxiety by Increasing Creativity With Martha Beck
Always here for you, reader-