Embrace Your Creativity Without an Audience: A Personal Journey
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Chapter 1: The Desire for Validation
As individuals, we inherently seek affirmation. When we put our creations online, there's often an underlying expectation for feedback, whether from friends or strangers. A simple comment or reaction can make us feel recognized. By sharing our personal work, we open ourselves up to vulnerability, and the silence that follows can feel like a lack of interest or care for what we've shared.
Inhibiting our creativity often stems from the belief that our work should cater to an audience. I, too, have fallen into this mindset, frequently hesitating to write or create if I doubt its appeal to others. This mindset can lead to inaction, effectively stifling our creativity before it even begins.
Section 1.1: The Unseen Work of Artists
Every accomplished artist or musician has a multitude of pieces that never see the light of day. This is a natural part of the creative journey. Interestingly, some of the works we deem "incomplete" can actually represent our truest selves. Their significance remains intact, even if they are never shared publicly. Cultivating a creative practice is far more valuable than fixating on the final outcome. As Elizabeth Gilbert eloquently states in Big Magic: "Understanding that others' reactions are not your responsibility is essential for true creativity."
Section 1.2: The Nature of Creation
Once a piece is completed and shared, the most challenging part has passed. The audience's responses can vary widely—they may adore your work, or they may not appreciate it at all. It’s crucial to remember why you created in the first place: for yourself. Personally, I often engage in creating abstract designs using Procreate or crafting electronic music in Logic Pro. These endeavors may hold little meaning for anyone else, yet they allow me to tap into my inner self. Through this creative process, I can channel my emotions—whether joyous or melancholic—by expressing them artistically.
Chapter 2: The True Value of Your Work
The real challenge lies in reminding ourselves that the audience's perception of our art is not what defines its worth. While accolades and positive feedback can provide a boost, they should not dictate the value of our creations.
In this video, "Speaking Tip #103: The Audience Doesn't Know What They Look Like!", the speaker emphasizes the importance of focusing on your message rather than worrying about how it will be received.
In "The 'Modern Audience' Doesn't Exist: Marvel, Star Wars and Video Games Destroyed for Nothing!", the creator discusses the illusion of audience expectations in modern storytelling and art.
Ultimately, when you deeply appreciate your creations, the opinions of others become inconsequential. The art belongs to you, and that ownership is what makes it invaluable.