Real creativity is connecting uncommon threads
As a young creative I discovered that everything interesting had already been done.
I was doomed to never be an original.
To create something that was truly unique that changed culture.
But as I’ve matured, I’ve learned that true creativity is the capacity to make new connections between disparate ideas.
Creativity is seeing how one interest feeds into another interest.
How you can mix all the things you love with your life experience to create something that is unique to you, even though maybe it’s not completely original.
Learn from the greats, then add a dash of you.
That’s real creativity.
SOMETHING TO PONDER
Think about your creative journey and how your interests affect your creative process. Write about the connections you have made between seemingly unrelated ideas or passions, and how these connections have influenced your creative output.
A meditation for the recovering perfectionist
I’m wholeheartedly committed to loving myself despite the occasional chaos within my mind.
In my beautiful imperfection, I embrace the journey of constant learning and personal growth.
I chose this path with confidence and joy
And I can change direction whenever I see fit.
I give myself permission to be the biggest, boldest version of myself.
Even in the moments when the fear of making mistakes lingers.
As I release the need to perform, I embrace the profound truth of my existence, transcending the expectations imposed by others.
My peace comes from accepting myself… flaws and all.
I’m proud to lean into my own daring authenticity.
SOMETHING TO PONDER
Reflect on a time when you allowed yourself to embrace your daring authenticity. How did it feel to embrace your true self?
May 2023 Recommendations
In The Weekly Reset, I share recommendations of interesting things I found on the internet. Here’s a collection of links for May.
Something to watch:
I binged Queen Charlotte on Netflix this weekend and I agree with this Variety article: it is the best Bridgerton yet.
Something I made:
A Day in the Life of an Awkward Black Creative
Something worth reading:
Inspired to improve relationships, a writer revamps her communication skills.
Some creative inspiration:
Here are 5 simple ways to beat procrastination
Some fun news:
I was featured on the Society6 Instagram!!!!
Related:
Speaking of which, here’s a link to my new collection I created for Society6.
Something to watch:
Watching the first episode of Documentary Now on Netflix was as delightful as the first time I watched Portlandia. If you watch a lot of documentaries and love dry humor, you will probably enjoy this show. Read the NYTimes review
Something Justin made:
I created a second A Day in the Life of an Awkward Black Creative. This time I went to Trader Joe’s. Is this my thing now?
An interesting read:
5 Financial Wellness Tips We Wish We’d Known In Our 20s (via The Good Trade)
Something Justin made:
I drew a cute illustration of Queen Charlotte. This art style is something I definitely want to explore more.
A podcast to listen to:
I’m watching Rupaul’s Drag Race: All Stars and I love listening to Bob and Monet’s commentary after the show on their podcast Sibling Rivalry.
Something to purchase:
I’ve always sweat more than the average human. And I just learned the magic of moisture wicking clothing. I think I’m going to buy all of these shirts from Target. (I already purchased the turquoise one)
Have you seen anything interesting on the internet? Send me a DM on Instagram.
There’s power in vulnerability
We often hear advice about protecting our hearts and being cautious about who we allow into our inner circle.
We’re encouraged to practice self-care, repeat affirmations, and trust our own judgment.
And while these practices are essential for personal well-being, there’s another aspect we must consider—the power of vulnerability.
It may seem daunting at first, but vulnerability requires us to let down our walls and reveal our true selves to others. And it’s through this act of openness that we invite deeper connections and allow others to love us for who we truly are, flaws and all.
In a world that often emphasizes perfection and masks, embracing vulnerability becomes an act of courage.
By showing up imperfectly and embracing our flaws, we create an environment where others feel safe to do the same. This shared vulnerability forms the foundation for genuine relationships and authentic connections.
And It’s through this process that we create freedom—freedom from the need to hide behind masks, freedom from the fear of judgment, and freedom to embrace our authentic selves.
It’s liberating to let go of the weight of perfectionism and embrace our humanity.
SOMETHING TO PONDER
Reflect on a relationship or connection in your life where you feel a desire to deepen the connection. How might embracing vulnerability contribute to fostering a deeper bond in that relationship?
How do I find my creative voice
To be a prolific creator it takes an enormous amount of discipline.
To show up every single day and fight the blank page.
To dance with your insecurities.
To make things even on the days when you feel like everything you make is terrible.
That discipline is what leads to breakthroughs.
It leads to finding your creative voice,
And extending boundaries.
It leads to defying trends and carving out new lanes.
So I implore you.
Keep creating.
The world needs more artists and less critics.
SOMETHING TO PONDER
Think about how discipline can lead to breakthroughs in your creative practice, finding your unique voice, and pushing the boundaries of your art.
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