“Comparison is the thief of joy” (widely attributed to Theodore Roosevelt)

Are you a creative type who sometimes feels like you need a reset, a boost, or supportive motivation? Does it feel like your world is off-kilter lately? I was looking for inspiration beyond my childlike doodles that kept me comforted during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Perhaps you are a sensitive type, becoming saddened and overwhelmed by world events, disgusted by greedy billionaire men and cruel dictators. Do you turn off the news and turn to YouTube clips of your favourite late night hosts and interviews?

Well, a couple of weeks ago the Universe provided me with a YouTube ad by a chipper UK artist, offering a free, ten-day online “Creative Reset” art course. Sign me up!

For the first couple of days, I was committed although the instructor did most of her demonstrations with acrylic paints and oddball materials. I tried my best with the dollar store water colours in my limited workspace. I was determined to create. The demos and assignments challenged my logic and aversion to waste. My chosen paints did not offer a good sense of flow and brilliant colour mixtures. I lacked workspace and storage space for the recommended output of copious practice pieces.

I appreciated the frequent check-in emails and Q&A sessions with the instructor and her coaches. Thousands of people from all over the world had registered. I embraced the shared interest and joy emanating from the group. I felt a sense of community.

I soon became distracted by the comments and reactions in the live video chats, which I learned how to hide from view. I became overwhelmed by the number of posts in the dedicated Facebook group, and the increased notifications in my profile. Agh!

Was this the result of my lack of focus, possible ADHD symptoms that developed during the pandemic – or undiagnosed neurodivergence? Why did I find it counterproductive to participate in this worldwide community?

Around that time, I developed symptoms of a summer cold; my throat was sore, my nose was runny. I started to cough. And cough. And cough. I became disappointed with my outputs after viewing photographs of others’ work in the Facebook group.

“Comparison is the thief of joy”

I needed to take a break. I felt overstimulated and disheartened. My sides hurt from coughing. My head hurt too. I medicated and drank plenty of water. I slept. I forgave myself for quitting the course at the final assignment. I allowed myself to rest.

Lessons learned?

1. Welcome interest in new endeavours but moderate your energy and attention;
2. Resist comparing your art work with others’;
3. Continue being a creative type on your own terms;
4. Use that letter from your GP to get tested for the autism spectrum.

Thanks for stopping by. How are your creative pursuits going?

T