The Somewhat Daily Adventures of Bur – 024
I’ve really done a number on myself this time.
I have been experiencing the effects of Art Block all month. Motivation is low. Anxiety is high. I keep trying my tricks to work through it and they work for a few hours or a day if I’m lucky. I got work to finish or I won’t get paid.
Freelance life is not the easiest kids!
I’m just drained. Theres a lot going on.
Every Artist experiences Art Block. This happens to me every year around this time. Makes me feel a little off, and certainly makes me feel insecure in my work. It’s good to remind yourself it normal and it will pass eventually.
I know it’s related to Christmas and the family drama the season brings. It is by far my least favourite time of the year.
I get stressed about deadlines at the best of times, while experiencing art block that stress is five times worse.
That little voice of doubt in the back of my mind is always talking. You’re not earning enough to purchase gifts for your loved ones… you’re not earning enough to survive the season… You’re going to miss this deadline… They won’t pay you, etc.
I know it’s mostly irrational, but sometimes the doubt wins and you need to feel your way through it. Do the next right thing one step at a time. You know?
So here’s a little perspective. For my partners birthday I purchased electronic tickets to see Bianca Del Rio live. I have been so wrapped up in my own little world trying to work through my stress. That I didn’t set up proper alerts or reminders and completely forgot about the show. It wasn’t until my partner texted me minutes before the show started that I realized my mistake. I still feel horrible. This is how badly art block is effecting me this year.
So to keep combatting art block I’m taking another day to write shit down, regroup, and make another action plan to keep me on track. Deadlines won’t change because I don’t feel myself.
Hopefully it starts working soon.
Stay Creative,
Justin Erickson
