create with fear
Part of having a brain that loves to overthink is hesitation. Will it work out? Will it turn out the way I want it to? Am I capable of doing this?
So many ideas, plans, desires, and opportunities get lost in the sea of uncertainty within my own mind. So much is left on paper—or cast aside—due to insecurities and fears that exist only in my imagination.
One of the things that helps me stay grounded and present (rather than getting lost in the storm of my own anxiety) is listening to podcasts. Listening to or watching others reflect on the act of creating and their creative processes tends to be inspiring. We never know when something will resonate with us or become the spark we need to ignite our creativity.
This week, I was sparked by an episode of Wild Geese by Anna Howard. She talks about the tendency some people, myself included, have to overthink certain creative moments or plan them down to the smallest detail – both actions that ultimately kill any inspiration or desire to create that may have arisen. This leads to anxiety, insecurity, and internal questioning. By focusing on potential obstacles and impediments, we don't get our ideas off the ground. Howard says: "Sometimes we project regret into things that haven't happened yet."
So... what do?
So, what should you do?
Howard’s suggestion—and the stance I’ve taken over the last few weeks—is this: create while afraid. Pursue that idea, trust yourself, and create (with fear) the thing you want to see in the world. The time is now, not later. Perfect circumstances don’t exist. What do exist are moments when we feel inspired. Take advantage of them, even in the smallest way. One word is better than none; a single step is better than nothing. There is progress in small actions.
Go.
Create.
And, eventually, the fear will pass.