Stepping Out of My Comfort Zone

Today I was reading a book to my kids before bedtime. I know the book well, but there are things you just read on autopilot. However, I am currently in a season of pause and searching for analog inspiration, which has made me more attentive and led me here. I created a website. This is insanity. Anyway, here is what the book said:

“You have brains in your head. You have feet in your shoes. You can steer yourself any direction you choose. You are on your own. And you know what you know. And YOU are the one who’ll decide where to go.” (Oh, the Places You’ll Go!, Dr. Seuss)

I am an artist. I remind myself of this constantly because lately it has been difficult to believe. Stepping into this identity, a reflection of God, one created to create, is no easy task. Yet I am choosing to commit to taking the steps, doing the work, and finding my voice. That is why I am here. That is why I created this website, so I can show up for myself fully and honestly.

https://austinkleon.com/show-your-work/

I began reading Show Your Work by Austin Kleon because I am currently going through a Surface Pattern Immersion with Bonnie Christine. I had previously read his book Steal Like an Artist, so when Bonnie Christine recommended this one as part of our journey, I immediately decided to buy it.

In Show Your Work, two ideas really stayed with me. First, that we are all amateurs. We should humble ourselves and remember that we are learners. Thinking of yourself this way takes the pressure off and removes the need to be the perfect artist, which, if I am being completely honest, is where my mind usually goes.

The second idea is about finding your voice. It resonated with me because I, too, have struggled to find my voice, my style, and my calling. Kleon explains that finding your voice is not a passive search but an active process. He says that “the only way to discover your voice is to use it.” You discover your voice when you create, share your daily work, talk about what you love and what inspires you, and dig deep to truly know yourself.

So here I am, sharing, taking significant leaps, beginning with a single mark, and watching where it will take me. I am hopeful for the future. This time I want consistency rather than perfection. I am starting fresh, with a desire to create while holding small expectations, you know, for balance. As long as I show up, keep pushing myself, grow strong roots, and use my voice, I will be okay.

Tonight, after ten seconds of courage, I created a blind drawing. I believe this is a good exercise for setting my expectations. I will leave it here for my reflection and maybe yours, whoever happens to come across it. This will not be just about results. It is about making things and keeping the magic of creating alive.

FLOWERS AND LEAVES—BLIND DRAWING