“In order to learn the important things in life, one must surmount a fear each day.”
— Ralph Waldo Emerson
Fear is a formidable creative block for many reasons and manifests in many forms. Here are a few I’ve encountered along my artistic journey.
Fear of Failure
Creativity requires you to venture into the unknown where possible failure lurks. It’s frustrating to fail. Embarrassing to appear incompetent in front of others.
It’s scary to share writing, art, videos…or any other forms of creativity when your skills are in process. This is especially true if you are a perfectionist by nature.
But failure is inevitable unless you are a savant. Skills progress imperfectly.
Antidote: “Strive for progress not perfection.” This Twelve-Step slogan focuses on having a growth mindset. The emphasis is on effort and incremental steps forward as opposed to doing something perfectly.
Former Failures
I’ve attempted a lot of artistic ventures that didn’t pan out like I’d hoped. I must face these former failures whenever I decide to take on a new task that looms large.
Former failures can paralyze you from attempting new projects.
Antidote: Remember that former failures—whether inferior art, failed businesses, or poor sales—helped to form the creative you are today. Each failure is full of skills learned and content created in the process. You can repurpose those skills and content and use them in your next venture.
“Do not be afraid, little flock, for your Father has chosen gladly to give you the kingdom.”
–Luke 12:32
Mediocrity
It takes work to create. Effort is required. New skills need to be mastered when you want to learn a new art form, build your creativity business, or share your artistry with others.
It’s tempting to take the path of least resistance and quit when you feel afraid.
But we creatives will age regardless of our attempts, failures, or conquests.
Those to be pitied are those who never try; those that settle for the mundane because fear paralyzed.
Antidote: Exercise your creativity like you would your body. The more you create, the easier it will become. Set some achievable goals like:
- I will jot down ideas that come to mind.
- I will sketch out a simple plan or project.
- I will set aside ____minutes a day to pursue my ____.
These are just a few of the reasons we creatives struggle with fear. So, if fear is keeping you from pursuing a vision God has put in your heart, remember:
Do you doubt your creative abilities?
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We are, after all, chosen to create!
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JoDee Luna Art 