Don’t Expose Yourself Like That!
Well, actually it’s quite okay for you to expose yourself. As a matter of fact, if you don’t expose yourself then what you long for remains just that – a longing, a long way away.
Of course, I’m talking about RISK here. The definition of RISK is “to expose someone (you!) or something valued (what you hold dear!) to danger, harm, or loss.” Isn’t that it really?! But it is actually a POTENTIAL that terrifies one into inaction. RISK is the sensation of fear and vulnerability wrapped around a deeper potential feeling of pride and power – like a pig in a blanket.
In terms of being creative, I find I am most resistant to risk because I am usually about to come face to face with a truth I might not know how to integrate with my self-concept: “I’m not like that!” my Ego screams. “That shouldn’t be seen!” my Saboteur yells as I judge and condemn my humanity in an instant. So, like may of us, I shy away through the wonderful avenue of distraction. And, I am a master at distractions which drip with seeming priority and a nowness of importance. Sound familiar?
WHAT TO DO?!
*First EXPECT your resistance to show up fully armed to take down any danger that smells of RISK. By expecting it, you have a chance of holding onto your power and thus your ability to CHOOSE.
*Say HELLO to your resistance out loud. Something as simple as, “Hello, resistance. Take a seat over there, have a slice of pizza, and I’ll be with you in just a bit.” By acknowledging it’s presence, you cut some of it’s edge off. Here’s the interesting thing: You actually give it time to be heard, to be aired, BUT on your schedule, by CHOICE.
*Then BREATHE, FOCUS, and BEGIN whatever creative play you have chosen to do for the next 15 minutes+. (See my post JUST CHUNK IT!)
*After you finish, CHECK IN with your resistance. Does it still need to be heard? Does it still have something to say? If so, gently listen then decide if you accept what it offers or not.
*Finally, THANK the resistance for showing up. Why? Because resistance, at it’s core, is about protection. Protection of self. Protection from the fear of exposure to hurt and pain though vulnerability. Yet, it’s presence tells you that you are expanding, growing through your courage to CHOOSE to show up for your creativity.
As you RISK, you will experience vulnerability. This sensation has information for you if you listen to it compassionately enough. Allow yourself to grow. It’s what you really want anyway!
Did this resonate? I’d love to hear your thoughts…