Yesterday I had a bit of a breakdown. I just moved to Dallas and was leading a caravan of cars across the city…driving a U-haul. I hate U-hauls. Between peak-hour Dallas traffic, spending way too much money at Ikea, and missing my Time Warner Cable appointment…I was stressed. I’m not proud to say a little of that stress sloshed onto my poor, understanding wife, sitting in the passenger’s seat. She forgave me quickly.
But today I was tempted to hop in bed, curl into a fetal position, and check out from creating. The world would forgive me. Nobody would miss me as I was sucking my thumb and stroking my own back. But I chose to block out a time to work – to create.
You see, creativity doesn’t just happen when we’re stress-free and lounging in a plastic chair. Some of the most influential artists lived notably stressful lives. I’m not saying stress is a key to creativity. But those artists found a way to channel their anxiety into art. Some may have even created better because of it.
Regardless, you don’t have to let life’s little stresses keep you from making an impact on the world through your art. I encourage you. Next time you’re stressed, instead of retreating to your self-pity cave, block out some time and force yourself to work. Force yourself to create through the stress.
Even in chaos, creativity can thrive.
THX A LOT!! I needed that!!
THX A LOT!! I needed that!!