THE STRUGGLE OF ATTACHMENT
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When our art-making experience is dominated by negativity or feelings of frustration, we can become habituated—even attached—to that being the relationship we have with our creative work. We then believe, and expect, that this will be the only outcome we have, and that is when our resistance to making our art begins.
We don’t want to feel this way…it’s uncomfortable and our nervous systems react . We don’t want to have to fight for some peace each time we enter the studio, so we avoid, distract, and struggle to find a place for ourselves in our creative work.
So what is the solution for us in this cycle of attachment that has us in its grip? Detachment is the antidote…meeting what arrives for us with mindful neutrality.
When we detach from something, or someone, we don’t entirely let go; we simply start relating to things differently – in a healthier way. This is the mindset shift we need. We need to have a healthier relationship with our art-making, just as we need to be mindful to have healthy relationships with others.
One way to shift from attachment to detachment is to consider what you’re invested in, and why that matters to you. As an artist, you’re likely invested in your growth, development, and ability to express yourself with a clear and strong voice.
Here are some questions that you can work with to help you to shift from attachment to healthy detachment:
How does it feel to invest in your growth and development? What would best support that for you?
What are you attached to that may be hindering you from honouring your investment in yourself as an artist?
What needs to shift for you to believe a different outcome is possible for you when you enter the studio?
How can you hold the idea of “outcome” differently? What outcome feels healthier for you?
This short version blog post is a part of my Mindset Moment series, an accompanying edition to my bi-monthly blog post. My intention for these Mindset Moments is to speak to some of the common challenges artists face with their creative work, and how a mindset shift can make a difference.
They are short reads, with a suggestion or writing prompt that you can work with…as well as an invitation to join in the conversation, sharing your experience and insights.
Join the conversation by leaving a comment under this blog post, or on my social media posts. Thank you for sharing your thoughts with me, wherever you find me.
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