If you’re doing creative work, showing up, writing, performing, or otherwise putting yourself out there, submitting or posting, you’re doing the hard work. And it can be exhausting.
Most people can’t do it. They don’t have the stomach for it. They don’t have the mind for it. They shrink from it in abject fear.
But you’re doing it. You’re producing work and putting it in front of people. Be proud—you’re one in a million!
Why do you do it? I hope it’s not for some far-off goal of “making it big.” If you get stuck thinking that’s your goal, remember this:
Skiing is hard, too. You have to put on all those clothes, boots, and skis. And you have to trudge up those hills on a rickety lift.
Skydiving is even harder. You have to take classes. You have to go through a whole training program. And it’s expensive. And time consuming.
But here’s the thing about skiing—it’s fun. Skydiving is even more fun.
Keep on working hard. And remember why you do it.
Amen! After years of creating for companies and others, I am now creating for myself and having as much fun now than ever before. There are easier ways to make a living than art and entertainment, so if you ain't having fun then find a better way to make a buck!
Such a timely reminder, Scott. This morning I waded through the swamp of FB comments of someone who asked the question "who is the least funny comedian?" - hundreds of negative comments naming everyone from Carlin to Sykes to Rife. I bet none of those folks ever had the courage to write something and get up in front of strangers to perform. I thought it would discourage me seeing as I have a performance coming up, but, it actually had the opposite effect.