Note to Self (06.08.23)

06.08.23

Just do the thing and enjoy the moment.

It's so easy to be discouraged by feelings of not being good enough, constantly pursuing more, more, more. There is a satisfaction to be gained from the doing. The process of creating, learning, iterating, and struggling is to be appreciated - so much that you won’t feel the need to compare - it's all about you.

There's no need to worry about what others think or how many likes you might receive. It's not a matter of success or failure, breakthrough or compromise. It's all about what you gain from the process.

After all, it's your time and energy; do you really want to give away these valuable resources in favor of other’s opinions? The space needed to create with authenticity is fleeting, often clouded by noise and distraction. If you have it, hold on tight.

Make the most of it.

“Don't think. Thinking is the enemy of creativity. It's self-conscious, and anything self-conscious is lousy. You can't try to do things. You simply must do things.” (Ray Bradbury)

Consider, for a moment, the limitations you place on yourself. The things you believe you can't do, shouldn't do, or might fail in doing. Identify one of those things and go do it, without thought, just get started.

You might find that you lose yourself in the work. Doubt fades, and you find your flow. You struggle but keep going. It gets hard, but you appreciate the challenge. There's no comparison here, just you and the obstacle to overcome.

Ultimately, you must call the product finished. There’s more that can be done, as there always is, but you are satisfied with the effort put forth and experience gained.

A sense of pride overwhelms you. And now, your perspective has changed. It was never about the results, but the process. It’s about the person you’ve become, the perspective you’ve gained, and the peace discovered through focused work. Sure, it could be better, but that's what brings you back for more.

Creation is fostered through a structure of practice in the name of progress, not perfection.

“Don’t wait for inspiration. It comes while working.” (Henry Matisse)

Work isn’t duty, it’s privilege. The willingness to put forth effort with intention and consistency is what takes life from good, to great - to remarkable, memorable, and fulfilling.

Note to Self: Fall in love with the work, not the result. If you can’t love the process, you can’t be great.