Why Am I Struggling to Create Anymore? Lessons from Writers and Artists

Many of us start writing or painting with great enthusiasm, only to find ourselves hesitating or suffering from a lack of motivation. Is this a problem with effort, or something more complex?

The Demise of Motivation

Have you ever stopped completely or just felt like painting and writing isn’t as fulfilling as before? The culprit might not be your effort or your dedication, but rather your creative process and the reception of your work.

Let’s draw inspiration from some seasoned writers and artists. William Goldman, the author of the beloved novel The Princess Bride, once said, 'Not every writer can be Dostoevsky, but you can be a great writer.' Similarly, Ray Bradbury had a profound quote on writing: 'Your first one hundred novels will be bad, so hang on to what happens after that.'

The Unwanted Criticism

One common issue is the fear of unsolicited criticism. Unprompted art often invites judgment, which can be uncomfortable or even discouraging. Your work may challenge the judgmental attitudes of those around you, or simply not align with the expectations they hold. This leaves you in a precarious position, especially if you value their opinions.

The Solution: Critique and Feedback

Finding a way to embrace critique and feedback is crucial. Community college workshops, community centers, and even online classes can be invaluable. Workshops are designed to face the demon of criticism head-on. Upper division creative writing classes teach the art of giving and receiving feedback without any authorial bias. The story, poem, or piece of writing must stand on its own, and the author learns to let go of the narrative to focus solely on the work. This is when true growth takes place for both the person and the writer.

Beyond Words: Painting and Self-Expression

For many, the struggle continues even when switching mediums. I, for one, have found myself transitioning from writing to painting, where the process is more immersive and less scrutinized. Despite my background in English, my natural talent for painting, and my active presence on social media, I still face the challenge of finding the right audience and overcoming fickle public reception.

Understanding the Fickle Public

Why do some paintings that have been laboriously crafted and infused with a rich narrative receive little attention, while others are hounded with admiration despite a haphazard approach? The answer lies in the right audience. Some pieces that I pour my heart into barely register with viewers, while others that I barely put effort into get more attention than I anticipated. It's a strange and often confounding reality.

Creating from the Heart

As with the feelings mentioned, the key is to create because you want to, or need to, express yourself. The process must be an act of passion, not just dedication. Learn to embrace and give feedback graciously. When you know what works for your art, trust your intuition and the judgments of those you trust. Remember, once a piece is shared, it's out there, and you might need to revisit it to refine it further.

Paintings I thought were done often reveal areas that need improvement. A piece of art truly belongs in the public domain, and you can no longer explain its nuances or understand its reception. Let it be as it is for those who perceive it, knowing that you have done your best.

Ultimately, the journey of creation is a personal one. Embrace the highs and lows, the doubts and the inspirations, and let your creativity be your guide.