The Elusive Moment of “Done”
Have you ever toiled over a creative project, whether it’s writing a story, painting a picture, or composing a song, and found yourself wrestling with the question: When is it truly finished? This is a question that has plagued artists for centuries, and there’s no easy answer. But in a recent discussion, author Maggie Smith shed light on this very topic, sharing her insights on the creative process and the elusive moment of completion. It’s a journey of challenges and breakthroughs, a dance between control and letting go, a testament to the enduring allure of the creative spirit.
The Thrill of the Fight
For Smith, the journey of creation is not always a smooth one. She embraces the struggle, the moments where the work seems to resist her efforts. It is in this struggle, in the “good trouble,” that she finds the most profound satisfaction. She described it as the mini-breakthroughs, the moments of clarity where the piece reveals its true form. It’s a process of problem-solving, of trusting your instincts, and of embracing the unknown. This approach is the key to unlocking the full potential of creative work.
Finding Joy in the Weeds
Smith’s perspective extends beyond mere problem-solving; she finds joy in the struggle itself. This is not the joy of effortless creation, but the joy that comes from the challenge, from navigating the “weeds” of the creative process. It’s a testament to her self-trust, the confidence she has in her ability to overcome obstacles. This ability to derive pleasure from the challenges is what fuels her creative fire, allowing her to approach each new project with enthusiasm and vigor. The joy isn’t just in the destination, but also in the arduous journey, the fight to get to the finish line.
The Journey of Trust and Perseverance
The trust Smith speaks of is not a blind faith, but a cultivated confidence born from experience and self-awareness. She recognizes that the creative process is rarely easy, and that the challenges will persist, regardless of experience or expertise. This understanding allows her to approach each new project with a sense of excitement rather than fear. This journey of trust and perseverance is also a testament to the enduring power of the creative spirit, the drive to create that burns within us all. The willingness to embrace the difficulty, to learn from the struggles, and to keep going even when the path is unclear, is what separates those who create from those who simply dream.
The Embrace of Imperfection
The book “Dear Writer: Pep Talks & Practical Advice for the Creative Life,” reminds us that the creative process is rarely neat and tidy. Smith emphasizes the importance of enjoying the process of making, rather than being fixated on the final product. It’s about savoring the journey, the act of creation itself. Once the piece is “done”, it’s time to embark on something new, to seek that feeling of beginning again. This is a constant reminder, a core idea that needs repeating for all creative people. The joy is not in the accolades, or the completion, but the journey of making. So, embrace the struggle, trust in your abilities, and find joy in the “good trouble” of creation.
The Enduring Appeal of the Creative Process
In conclusion, the journey of creation is a complex and multifaceted process. It’s a dance between challenge and satisfaction, a testament to the enduring power of the creative spirit. The true essence of the creative experience lies in the joy of making, in the embrace of the “good trouble.” It’s a process that demands trust, perseverance, and a willingness to embrace the unknown. So, as you embark on your own creative endeavors, remember the words of Maggie Smith: embrace the struggle, trust in your abilities, and find joy in the journey. The most important aspect is not the final product but the act of making. Because it’s the making of the thing that truly matters. This is the key to unlocking the full potential of your creative work.
