IMAGINATIVE

If you’re a creative (writer, artist, filmmaker, etc.), someone in your life has probably described you with the above adjective. They’ve said it with good intentions, complimenting how your mind works differently than others and transforms blips of ideas into meaningful art.

And, being a creative, you also deal with the negative effects of being imaginative, often when you least need it.

As imaginative beings, we creatives work mostly in our heads, and are oftentimes stuck listening to the mantra of self-doubt that comes when we feel our efforts aren’t working.

I’m here today to reveal three lies we tell ourselves as creatives, and help pry their suffocating clutches away once and for all.

Lie 1: No One Will Like My Work

One of the hardest pills creatives have to swallow is that not everyone will like the art we put into the world. But, the keywords here are not everyone. Notice I didn’t say no one.

With over 7 billion people on the planet, there are going to be souls that don’t understand what you’re making, but there will also be those who get it and deeply resonate with your art. They’ll find pieces of themselves in your books, music, of film and see it as a source of hope.

And even if just one person out of the 7 billion find solace in your art, won’t that be worth it?

Lie 2: It’s All Been Done Before

I’m sure there’s been at least one time in your life as a creative where you came up with a brilliant idea, hopped online to see how original it is, and found the search results already listed several variations of your idea.

You fear your idea lacks the wow factor that sets it apart from the others. That writing this book will be a lost cause because it’s been done before.

But, It’s Not Been Done by YOU.

Some of the best writing motivation I’ve ever received came from a musician. They said “your art is something unique to you”, meaning every single writer on this planet sees a potential story idea in a different way. Every single musician has a unique song inside of them. Every single filmmaker can produce a unique film. The possibilities are endless.

Lie 3: I’m Not Good Enough

“I don’t have the ability to finish writing a novel.”

“This film sucks. Reviewers will crucify it.”

*Strums guitar* *Marks out chicken scratched lines* *Angrily crinkles up 50th attempt at lyrics*

It’s completely natural for our creative juices to run dry every now and then. But, for so many creatives, a dry spell makes us fear a complete drought is coming, and we’re not good enough to put this dream into action.

That couldn’t be further from the truth.

When we’re at the point of struggling this much that consistent doubts arise, we may be in the early stages of burnout.

We may just need a break. But whatever you do, don’t quit.

Going back to Lies 1 & 2 above, someone in the world needs your art told from your unique perspective.

What if your art talks someone out of committing suicide?

What if your art makes a child with cancer smile?

What if your art gives a spiritual nudge to someone who has been resisting God?

If an idea for some form of art lays on your heart, you are good enough to pursue it and bring it to life.

It will take discipline. It won’t happen overnight. You’ll still have doubts when the project is complete and you’re staring at a published book, CD, or DVD. But I promise, if you see it through and don’t give up, it will be well worth it.

Talk to Me, Arrowheads!

What Lie have you suffered from the most as a Creative, and how have you combated that doubt? Share your testimony in the comments!

Aim high, stay strong, and always hit your mark.

-Allyson 😀