On Affirmations

When I first started on my art journey, I had a lot of negativity to overcome. Some of it was from people around me, whether they were in my close circle or society at large. Some of it was self-generated, both from the influences of those people as well as starting something new and unfamiliar. There were people who did not approve of my being an artist, of my leaving professional employment and the guaranteed salary that came with it, or of not being part of the intellectual community. There were some who appreciate art but not the artists who make art, except in the very abstract way. There were others who were jealous and angry that I chose to leave the "rat race" and that I had the opportunity and support to leave it, while they decided they could not. Sadly, no amount of arguing about being honest about choosing one's priorities reduced their jealousy or increased their self-awareness. One person told me that because they were unhappy with their life, they simply didn't want me to be happy with mine. I lost people from my life by following this path.

It was difficult and lonely for a time. I did a lot of meditating and processing of my thoughts in order to overcome this negativity. I can't say that it was easy, but I was determined and enthusiastic and I knew I was answering a call to a vocation, which made it possible.

I came up with a list of six important affirmations that helped me not only overcome the negativity and doubt, but also to give myself the positive encouragement and keep my eyes focused squarely on my goal.

I still have them on the wall above my machine for when I need the reminder. I don't need to look at them as often as I once did, but there are still some days that I need them to remind me that I am on the right journey.

1. COMMITMENT: This is for you, not anyone else. Love yourself.

2. DISCIPLINE: Keep it up because you won't always feel motivated.

3. CONSISTENCY: Anything worth doing takes time. Be patient. Work on it every day.

4. SACRIFICE: There are things you will need to give up to reach your goals. Be honest about your priorities.

5. BALANCE: There is no need to be miserable. There will be days you need to work on something else. 

6. GRACE: Be nice to yourself. Say kind things to yourself. Be your own friend.