Two Lists

Two sets of reasons not to create art:

List #1:

  • There’s no money in the arts

  • I need a record label’s backing before I start making art

  • I have too many obligations to devote the time to creating

  • The tools/process is too expensive

  • I don’t have the right connections

  • I don’t have a good enough support system

List #2:

  • I’m afraid I’m not going to be good enough

  • I’m afraid I’ll fail

  • I’m afraid when I finish what I make, no one will care

  • I’m overwhelmed at starting something

  • I’m not smart enough to do this

  • I’m worried when I do my best work, I’ll find out I’m actually average

The second list is embarrassing to say aloud to colleagues (let alone ourselves). So we usually use list #1 to give ourselves reasons not to overcome the fears in list #2.

Eric BarfieldComment