Interviews and self-doubt
A few weeks ago, I was delighted to be invited to write an interview for Create Whimsy. I got an email and it was “WOW”. I’m so honoured when someone recommends my work, because it means that it resonates. That I am doing something right. “What’s that I hear?” …. Yup! V.A.L.I.D.A.T.I.O.N. There! I said it. I felt validated. And happy. And proud. And nervous. And …
It took me a while to answer the questions as I wanted to write from the heart. How I feel, what it means to me. So I wrote, and re-read. And crossed out and re-wrote. And finally, because I thought I was taking too long to get back to them, I bit the bullet and clicked on the send button.
Relief. Trepidation. All at once.
A few weeks back, the article went live online. Here’s the link for you to read it if you are so inclined.
And, as I write this … here we go again. My thoughts running through my head: “Shall I send this?” “Do I let people know about it?” “Do I pretend it is not out there?” Again … trepidation and self-doubt. The little monster on my left shoulder is happily leaning close to my ears whispering, whispering, whispering … “Are you sure you want to do that?” ” Why would anyone want to read your story; it is not that interesting.” “Nobody cares what you have to say”.
And on and on it goes. On the other shoulder, the other half: the one that builds up, encourages, claps, smiles and gives you the thumbs up. “Go for it!”. “You deserve it.” “I’m proud of you!” And so on and so forth.
Who wins? Well … I’m clicking on the Publish button, so I’d say that the right shoulder elf won this battle. As for the rest, what you’ll think about it? I don’t know. And the truth is, I’m OK with that. I wrote what I felt, from the heart. From. The. Heart. My story my way. And I’ve accepted and come to terms with the fact that once you click on that button … the story does not belong to you anymore. It belong to everyone.
My interview in Create Whimsy is out there in the world. Some of it you may know. Some of it might be new. Some of it might make you smile, or shake your head. Who knows?
If you read it, I hope you enjoy it. And until I write again enjoy the warm weather. Spring has arrived!
Ana
This was fantastic Ana. So glad you shared your interview. IT’S YOU! I can relate to being a maker my whole life too. I miss you! Stay well and keep on inspiring! xoxo Much Aloha
Awww. Thank you very much! I’m missing you too! Thanks for your kind words. Take care,
Fascinating insight into your thought process, influences and materials employed. The accompanying pictures were so interesting to study.
Nice article in Create Whimsy. I LOVE your piece Ni Una Mas. Would you be willing to share a bit of about the process (paint, image, stamp/stencil, fusing of pieces)?? Thanks.
Thanks so much for your kind words. And I’m glad you liked “Ni Una Mas”. It has an interesting story. I am happy to share the process. I will write a blog on it so if you are subscribed to my website you will receive it by email.