Reader, how often do you stress over possible missed deadlines or feeling like you're not measuring up creatively, to your expectations or those you think others have of you?

It's a common struggle I know too well and I wanted to send this gentle reminder to you tonight: show yourself the same compassion you would show a child and start to rethink how you view your creative process.

I have a DONE list.

I have a to-do list as well, but I almost always also write what I have done that wasn't on the list I had at the start of the day. This goes for our creativity as well.

Instead of being critical by what you haven't achieved, flip the script and celebrate every little effort you make. Whether it's a quick sketch, a few lines of writing, noticing and photographing something that caught your eye or just brainstorming ideas, each small step is a win and contributes to your growth and mental-health.

And believe me, they ALL add up overtime.

Here are a few practical ways you can adopt this mindset and keep your creativity flowing:

1. Acknowledge Your Efforts: Take a moment to recognise and appreciate the effort you're putting in, no matter how small. Give yourself a pat on the back for showing up, however that looks for you.
2. Progress Over Perfection: Remember, perfection is overrated, and frankly, unattainable. Focus on progress instead. Embrace the messy drafts and experimental brushstrokes—they're all part of the creative process. Having something is better than having done nothing.
3. Be Kind to Yourself: Watch that inner critic and be mindful of how you talk to yourself. Imagine that you are talking to your inner child, how would they like to be spoken to? Do that. Offer yourself words of love and support as often as you can.

By adopting a more compassionate mindset, you'll create a nurturing environment for your creativity to thrive. Your worth as a human isn't tied to meeting every deadline or producing flawless work—it's about honouring your true self, being present in the moments you are given and expressing yourself authentically, however that looks for you.

So, next time, probably tomorrow let's be fair, that you're feeling pressure or the fear of missing out, take a step back. Show yourself some kindness, celebrate your micro achievements, and go make another thing!

Until soon.

With Kindness,
Delphie Joy xox

PS: If you are wanting to make space for your creative self-expression, but finding it hard to do so, join the Permission to Play Members Group. You are welcome to join and trial for free, no strings attached. I want to make more spaces for folk to process and find hope and joy. Reply and I will send you the details xox

A$5.00 Play It Forward Hey you, fabulous supporter of creativity! 🌟 Have you ever thought about sprinkling a bit of virtual stardust on the... Read more Send a tip

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