Back in the 90’s thinking about doing art would trigger a stress response for me. I’d feel my muscles tighten, my breath would become shallower, and I would sweat.
Sounds like fun, huh?
So I Took An Art Class
You might be surprised to hear that I’m currently taking a yearlong art class and loving it. I used to say, “I can’t even draw a good stick figure.” But I surrounded myself with supportive artists friends, not on purpose, but because I love to be around creative people.
Over time these lovely women took me under their wings and helped me find my path with art. One of my artist friends who used to teach drawing classes told me that anyone (yes, even me) could learn to draw. And with their guidance I was able to draw something that was recognizable.
For my current art class I get a weekly online lesson. The mixed media lessons come from various teachers using a variety of mediums-paint, stamps, collage, inks, lettering, etc.
Lesson Learned
What I learned from last week’s lesson was priceless. While I had a bit of a learning curve using some new markers, a birthday gift from two of
my artist muse friends, the important thing I learned was about having fun.
I didn’t expect my project to look perfect. I didn’t expect me to be perfect. And because of that it was play, not work. Because of that I stayed in the present moment. That’s how I’ve learned to approach the art classes I take.
My ah-ha moment came when I realized how often I expect perfection from myself when it comes to my work. I expect my coaching to be perfect. I expect everyone in my classes to have a stellar experience. I expect every idea I have to be executed perfectly.
But it’s not possible (sorry if you saw me as perfect and I spoiled the illusion) for perfection to be my norm. And holding onto that dream certainly sucks the joy out of the process.
More Fun Please
So I’m vowing to have more fun with my work, make that my “play.” Don’t get me wrong. I often do have fun with my work. It’s just that sometimes I don’t.
In February I lead my second Purposeful Yoga retreat in Mexico. I had fun. Lots of fun actually. I got to use my skills, be creative, hang out with incredible women, swim, hike to a cave, connect with locals, walk a deserted beach… All while I was “working.”
Fun has a high vibration. It can help you be healthier and happier. It can help you attract more of what you want in your life. So how can you have more fun in your life? I’d love to know your thoughts.