November 1, 2015

Finish: Strong

“A tree that can fill the span of a man’s arms grows from a downey tip; a terrace nine stories high arises from clods of earth; a journey of a thousand miles starts from beneath one’s feet.”  -Lao-tzu

Musing…         
This maple is showing a bold, strong finish to this autumn season. But is it really the end? Isn’t an apparent end simply the start of a new beginning? Putting final touches on a creative project and finishing STRONG elevates it to a new level, a new beginning.

Kate’s Turn:  
Finish is also a noun. The finish on furniture protects it for the life of its use; we re-finish items in order to extend its usage for another lifetime. The finish of a wine carries us into another experience. I venture to say that the finish protects so that the life cycle completes (can finish) and begins once again.

As a creative person, I have many ideas, and start many projects, but it’s the passion, along with persistence, that takes me to the finish. Intention, effort, work…showing up consistently in the process of ‘Creating form from light’ (my intention in 2015), much like photosynthesis “showed up” daily to produce this golden form from light. The strong showing of beauty brings the seasonal cycle to a new level…..and continues from there in the composting of leaves, nurturing the soil to nourish while resting in the winter…you know the way. Each day that I show up strong insures that I finish strong in the future.

“What’s the real secret to creativity?
Showing up!
Yes, that’s really it. Showing up is the main thing!
Be consistent in showing up. Getting to your creative work only once in a while won’t keep it alive. Make “routine” and “regularity” sacred words! ….use the phrase “I’m going directly to work” as a mantra and memory aid. “I’m going directly to work!” Can you feel the power in that phrase? The phrase is energizing, encouraging, even heroic-sounding. “I’m going directly to work!” To my ear, it sounds like your victory is assured. Do give it a try. Say it out loud right now. “I’m going directly to work!” Or just, “I’m going to work!” Or just, “Work!””  - Eric Maisel from The Creativity Book

Get Fired Up: 
“I’m going directly to work.” Say it…feel the power…then go directly to work in order to finish strong!

“Take care in your minutes, and the hours will take care of themselves.”  - Philip Dormer Stanhope Chesterfield 



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