So, I meant to write this post at the beginning of the month but life and time slipped away from me with the craft fair season in full swing. My big news of October is that I was published in the Autumn edition of Jewelry Affaire magazine, available on newstands now! I distinctly remember when I mailed this piece in, my ever-present inner critic was trying to convince me that my work was not good enough. I buy this magazine on a regular basis and am always in awe of other peoples creations. I very much am my own worst critic. Luckily, another louder voice asked me "what's the worst that could happen?" (just to clarify: people who hear voices in their head are not necessarily crazy). When I thought about the answer to that question I realized that the excitement of being published would be well worth the risk of a little rejection. But fear of rejection and failure can be a powerful thing and can keep us from reaching our potential. It is actually very fitting that I write this blog now, as my inner critic has been particularly beastly as of late. We all know who he/she is. It is that part of yourself that constantly compares yourself to others and tells you you are not good enough. Silencing that voice can help you take the chances, and look at failure and rejection as learning experiences. Yes, it's no fun when you spend a lot of time working on a new technique and the result is less than satifactory. But, perhaps the next time you try it, you will have discovered (from your failure) hints that will help the next time you try it. Most everyone has these inner battles at some point, not just artists. I think the key to moving forward is to learning to not let that inner critic have too much control, and to ask yourself next time you are faced with a challenge "what's the worst that could happen?"
