As I was planning this month’s newsletter, I had comparisons in mind – how we compare ourselves to others in our fields of work or creativity. That practice can have its benefits when it helps us see our situation and how we can improve, but it can also cause us to freeze or have second thoughts about doing what we love when it comes to creative endeavors.
It’s easy to go online looking for inspiration because we’re so into “the big thing” but what comes up in the feed is either epic fails or the best of the best. How does either of these help you? (My first novel, Girl on Fire, addresses this when the main character is first learning the art of dancing with fire.)
Don’t let it stop you from pursuing your dreams.
On the other hand … This year I’ve been struggling with a family-related issue that, after months of trying to figure out on my own, I finally shared on Facebook. It had to do with paying for our sons to attend college – how to do so fairly and effectively.
The responses that came back were insightful and supportive. Comparing our family situation to others and welcoming them to do the same gave me new perspectives on how to handle our dilemma and quickly led me to the solution that was already in my heart. (The solution – apply and receive as many scholarships as possible, and cover the rest for our sons to get a Bachelor of Arts so they’re better prepared to follow their dreams. Easy? No. Possible? YES, and it just feels like the right thing to do.)
Is there a time you think it could be helpful to compare yourself to others?
Stay well, and stay creative!
CherieDawn
Upcoming Events:
- September 5, 2023: Beginning Writing Workshop in Cold Spring, KY [comment below or email me for details: cheriedawnlovesfire (at) gmail.com]
- October 2023: Look for an article on my book, Personified, in Kentucky Living Magazine!
LifeSoup by Cherie Dawn Haas 
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