Dumping Duty
I love when I figure something out on my own….then read about it in a “how to” book. I know I’m on the right track and I’m reminded that none of us have a unique experience!
For years, I’ve painted obsessively - some years with passion and other years I’m driven by an inner compass that won’t let me consider doing otherwise. I had decided it was the right thing for me and once the decision was made — ONWARD!
A couple of years ago I learned the meaning of burn out. I denied it and kept working, drilling myself even deeper in a hole. I didn’t diagnose myself until I had pretty much sapped every ounce of joy out of my painting day. And it occurred to me — I was working out of duty, not joy. I’ve been making adjustments ever since, trying to reconsider my schedule and rethink my entire life direction. I’ve made gradual changes to relieve the pressure but still stay engaged.
Last week I read a quote about the pitfalls of creating out of a sense of duty. It made perfect sense and validated what I’ve been experiencing. I learned a long time ago that doing ANYTHING purely out of duty (or guilt) is self-defeating. It’s funny that I didn’t apply that lesson to my studio time. So now I’m wondering —- what other things do I already know that I’m not applying to my painting life?
Something to think about….
