You Have to Stop in Order to Start

What is holding you back from reaching your creative goals this year? If you're reading this, it is probably safe to assume you have some. It may be to attend just one workshop but it just hasn't fit into your schedule yet. It may be to dedicate part of your home to a space to create in but you haven't had a minute to set it up like you imagine it will be. You may be hoping to turn your creative hobby into a business this year but there seem to be too many obstacles.

Whatever it is, stop. Stop telling yourself you need more time because that day never comes. Stop telling yourself whatever is in your way is more powerful that your desire to tap into what you know is inside you.

I know it sounds overly simple but I promise it can work. Start by changing the recording in your brain that tells you every reason you can't get there into a new script that leads where you want to be. It can be as simple as changing the voice that says your calendar is too full into imagining yourself following through. Think of who you want to do a workshop with and give them a call. Start by logging into the Mixed Media Club Library and printing out your supply list. Re-home the items cluttering up your new workspace and visualize yourself working there. Make sure each step is followed up by an equally productive step. Keep calling your friend until your creative date is on the calendar. It's important. You're important! Don't allow anything to pile back up on your newly cleaned workspace or your newly redirected mindset. Arrest every single thought and action that leads to inaction. Remind yourself why you want to express yourself in the first place.

Even if you are in a flow for a while, things can creep back in to slow you down. Here on the Outer Banks it comes in the form of lots of company, starting Memorial Day weekend. Give yourself permission to keep your creative corner set up when guests come over, even if it's your entire dining room. Dine alfresco. Show them what you've been doing. You may inspire them to try.

To move forward, you know what to stop, so you can start. We are in this together.

Let us know if this helped you. Also share your experience to help others.