For all artists — Though you may admire “xyz’s” content and craftsmanship, they’re also admiring “abc’s” work and so this cycle of an artist/creators block is a never ending impending doom. Some days are harder than others to spark an imagination or find motivation, and that’s okay. Truly the one person you are in competition with is, none other than yourself. And it would be unfair to compare your artwork amongst others who too are in the same predicament seeking the means for inspiration. A bucket full of rough drafts, unedited files, unfinished project, an unfinished song, and now you’re questioning your own work if it is good enough - we’ve become our own worst critics, haven’t we. I’ll admit that I know I am. I delete, archive, then repeat.

You must understand your individuality as a person, is what makes you incomparable to others. We have become blindsided of how powerful social media drives our ability for acknowledgment and acceptance of a place that has now become swarmed with likes, views and followers. What’s it to you if they got 10,000 while you only got a 100, that doesn’t make you any less of an artist does it? It’s hard not to get caught up in the crossfire of feeling like you’re not getting anywhere. You must starve the ego and feed your soul. (read that line again) Validations as such do not make you any less valuable or unworthy, don’t forget that. Stay authentic and true to yourself. Even if you don’t think what you create is the slightest bit “good” well love, somebody else out there still does! And you’ve got fans you’re unaware of and an audience that actually does pay attention to the work you put in. Your design, writing, media, dish, music, photography, the list goes on, does not go unnoticed. Not everything is meant for everyone’s taste, so that does not mean you stop creating. You keep on creating.

“There is never a lack of subject matter; just absence of creativity.”

You woke up today, different than you were before yesterday. Maybe it’s the usual routine of your daily tasks, maybe you’ve overcome an obstacle or perhaps you’re in a more challenging spot than you anticipated. I can’t speak for every individual, but agreeably this year has been a variation of unforeseen events. A few have hit their lowest and a few have hit their highest. Firmly, you attributed what you could have got through the day. It’s okay if it may not seem like much. And if no one has acknowledged your efforts of at least trying your best, then I want you to know someone out there does. I do.

Have you ever stared at your own reflection and pondered on the various version’s others made of you? Contemplation of the origin of those intrusive thoughts. It’s easier to discredit our efforts stripping away every reason why we’re not good enough than it is to provide a justification of our endeavors. Every single day it’s an internal warfare battling our own demons, our cynicism, self-esteem and just about any flaw we consciously embed to feel less empowered of our capabilities. You find yourself living for others that you forget about taking care of yourself. A standstill ravine trickling its last bead. Despite contrary belief, dwelling on and badgering yourself over your faults doesn’t allow growth. You must view this world as your own moving with conviction. Accept your shortcomings and ascertain your end goal. Because it is only when we are suspended in mid-air with no landing in sight, that we force our wings to unravel and alas begin our flight. The miracle is in the unfolding of the wings. You’ve made it this far, why stop now. Halt for a brief moment and look how much you’ve conquered for yourself. You have done so much and don’t need validation from anyone else. Finish this year with resilience.