Big Magic

You’ve only got one shot at life, so don’t let fear stop you living creatively!

Millions of creative people all around the world grew up with the constant reminder that getting a “good education” and finding a “serious job” was the only path that led to happiness. Many experienced failure and hardship in their early attempts in making art. The result? Countless creative spirits who aren’t living out their full potential.

In our skeptical world, deciding to pursue your creativity is one of the scariest choices you can make. But it doesn’t have to be. Living a creative life isn’t about striving for fame or dedicating your mind, body and soul to your craft. It simply means living a life led by curiosity instead of fear.

What’s more, there’s no set of criteria that deems something to be creative or not. A creative pursuit is simply something that others might see as crazy, but that makes you feel bold, brave or gives you butterflies. Whether it’s painting, writing poetry, rock climbing or cooking, it should be that special thing that excites your curiosity.

Do you know what your creative pursuit could be, but still feel hesitant? Well, you’ve got your fears to thank for that. If you’re worried that you don’t have the skills, that it’s too late for you to start, that no one will care about what you have to say, or that you don’t have the time or money to invest, then your brain is doing a great job of stopping you from doing what you really want to do.

How can you counter this? We’re often told to let go of our fears, but honestly, this isn’t always possible. Instead, the best thing you can do is simply get comfortable with your fears. After all, they’re only natural!

In a creative life, your passions coexist with your fears. Your fears are more than welcome to come along for the ride and give their input, but they shouldn’t send you on detours or grab the wheel. Fears are nothing more than passengers in the backseat who keep you company and remind you of the things you care about.