VENTURING INTO THE UNKNOWN

The ability to create appropriate boundaries in our lives while trying to exceed our self imposed limitations requires a great deal of effort and consistency. Most people are either too controlling about their behavior, or out of control, lacking the necessary boundaries for creative and emotional development. In order to grow, an artist must open up to areas of new discovery and exploration, pushing past the safety limits and embracing the unknown.

Those individuals very focused on keeping life under "control" prevent themselves from taking real risks in their work. The psychology that dictates this behavior stems of course from some form of fear. Staying within familiar territory will keep things safe. There is often a fear of making mistakes, being judged or humiliated, and a sense that something "bad" will happen it they let go; it just isn't safe not to know where you are going. This fear can be so immobilizing that it can inhibit any real, deep artistic growth.

The opposite of being controlling is to seem out of control. However, for those who appear to be rebellious and wild, displaying a lot of anti-social behavior, fear is at the center of their lives as well. They may feel like they are free to do anything they desire but are not necessarily in touch with their authentic selves. Most of the time they are acting out their feelings rather than being in them, having no boundaries and therefore lacking the structure and discipline needed to gain ownership of their art and of their lives.

Exploring and understanding the childhood issues that stifle spiritual advancement will place you on a path of becoming "real", lifting your creative limitations. Facing the deep core of fear and shame that prevents you from being in your life will help provide a foundation of trust and self-worth that supports artistic commitment.

Open up your hearts, face your fears and dare to experience your truth.

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© Nanette Natal 1999