I understand the feeling of not being ”ready” to start a project. I recently noticed a burst of anxiety between the idea and the execution of a design. To the point where I have an urge to stop, wait and put away my tools. No more. The next time the adult overthinking self tries to take over, I’m going to call up my 5yo self. Thanks! Happy creating.
I've come to understand that I'll never be "ready" to start a project, but the trick is to begin anyway. Recently, it occurred to me that my urge to meticulously plan out projects is an attempt to ensure a perfect outcome. Even if that were possible (and it's not), that approach robs me of the joy of discovery and the happy accidents that happen while working. Best just to start and see what happens—it may surprise you, and that's the best we can hope for.
Thank you for sharing your wonderfulness with us. I'm inspired and have just written 'Begin Anyway' in fancy writing on the kitchen chalkboard to remind me of the five-year-old energy.
Wes, and other 5 yr olds, have got it sussed! We can learn a lot from them, no fear or overthinking, just do it... and just like that a beautiful flower garden is born!
I'm loving your soundtracks Erik! This substack is a treat for the eyes and ears. Can definitely relate to the overthinking and being schooled by 5 year olds!
Thanks so much, Rich! I've been making music for a few years without having a good place to share it. These films feel like a nice way to bring my art and music experiments together. Glad you're enjoying 'em!
The best. I have a 6 yo and I couldn't agree more. Kids are great art teachers. This Paper Films project is sending me back in time when I was at my happiest creative self. It's lighting all my inner fairy lights and making me want to go and make. Thanks mate.
Thanks, I hadn't realized that is what was missing in my life! Funny to get to 68 years old and discover I had the secret at one time in my life, 63 years ago. Good to be reminded to look back at that wise young person.
I understand the feeling of not being ”ready” to start a project. I recently noticed a burst of anxiety between the idea and the execution of a design. To the point where I have an urge to stop, wait and put away my tools. No more. The next time the adult overthinking self tries to take over, I’m going to call up my 5yo self. Thanks! Happy creating.
I've come to understand that I'll never be "ready" to start a project, but the trick is to begin anyway. Recently, it occurred to me that my urge to meticulously plan out projects is an attempt to ensure a perfect outcome. Even if that were possible (and it's not), that approach robs me of the joy of discovery and the happy accidents that happen while working. Best just to start and see what happens—it may surprise you, and that's the best we can hope for.
This is my new favorite place on the Internet. Thanks for the encouragement and good vibes, Erik. 🌸🌿🌷🌿🌼
Wow, thank you for your kind words, Rachael. I'm really happy to hear that.
thanks for this inspiring share.
like if the world were divided in two kingdoms: the overthinkers and the nobrainers.
wisdom might be roaming within the third well-hidden land at the ends of the rainbow.
adding ‘if that’s what you wanna do’ to my snarky phrase vocabulary immediately!
Thank you for sharing your wonderfulness with us. I'm inspired and have just written 'Begin Anyway' in fancy writing on the kitchen chalkboard to remind me of the five-year-old energy.
I loved to listen to the spring sounds while reading your words – a wonderfull idea to add it to your text.🌸
Would make a wonderful quilt cover! Utterly charming.mail ❤️
Yes! This really resonated with me, thanks for the reminder✨
Wes, and other 5 yr olds, have got it sussed! We can learn a lot from them, no fear or overthinking, just do it... and just like that a beautiful flower garden is born!
I'm loving your soundtracks Erik! This substack is a treat for the eyes and ears. Can definitely relate to the overthinking and being schooled by 5 year olds!
Thanks so much, Rich! I've been making music for a few years without having a good place to share it. These films feel like a nice way to bring my art and music experiments together. Glad you're enjoying 'em!
I am so so enjoying your posts. Please keep going ♥️
Thanks Josie! Much more to come.
I love that Wes says “astonishing”
I don't know where he heard it. But I love it. 😂
Inspiring. Thanks for the spring music too ☺️
Glad you liked it! Thanks, Yasmine.
The best. I have a 6 yo and I couldn't agree more. Kids are great art teachers. This Paper Films project is sending me back in time when I was at my happiest creative self. It's lighting all my inner fairy lights and making me want to go and make. Thanks mate.
I love to hear that, Ninu. Can't wait to see what you make!
Wonderful. Often in that same boat. Thank you!
Thanks man! Happy to see you here.
Thanks, I hadn't realized that is what was missing in my life! Funny to get to 68 years old and discover I had the secret at one time in my life, 63 years ago. Good to be reminded to look back at that wise young person.
Yes! It's easy to forget to have fun with art. Having a kid around the house is a constant reminder not to take myself too seriously.