Even as I am writing this, there is a voice in my head that I feel all creative minds must overcome. Is my work engaging, noteworthy, and relevant, and will it outlive me? It can be so hard to even start writing and not just give up after a paragraph (or start any other creative project). There are, however, certain truths that can be used to overcome these doubts.

The first truth is that the first time anyone creates, it will not be as amazing. I highly doubt that the first time any artist created, they were truly in their hearts proud. Pride comes when creating for the public becomes old-hat. A person can create for themselves all they like, but there is something different about creating for the public and being that vulnerable. So eventually, a person must just jump and put themselves out there and know that self-doubt is something everyone faces. Repetition and showing more people will improve one’s skill set in anything, especially since more feedback will be received.

The second truth is that an artist must believe in and not dismiss their support system. I feel people (myself included) tend to dismiss the opinions of those closest to us. It is easy to say that our loved ones are just saying something because they feel obligated. Our loved ones, mentors, and peers count the most. A huge driving factor in me wanting to pursue writing was my own psychiatrist telling me I should. My girlfriend as well has been my muse, reading my articles and letting me know what she thought and encouraging me. I credit this article being written to her support; my writer’s block has been bad, and she gifted me a tiger’s eye that is supposed to help creativity, and it got me writing with her cheering me on. Not to mention all the support I’ve received from my family. This is a testament to the fact that when an artist lets someone cheer them on, they can be inspired to create more.

The third truth is that typically artists are their own worst critics, judging their work more harshly than someone else would. Having those thoughts of self-doubt that I was talking about earlier before they have even given others the chance to see what was created. In the end, though, it is only others that can determine the value of a work. A creator can be proud of something they produce, but it is not possible to know if it will be well received by others until they let it. Yet again, they have to just jump and showcase their work to others. As I began writing this article, an extra push I needed to do was share my first article I published on this site on my social media. This alone just made me feel better that I was confident enough to share my work with more people.

The fourth and final truth kind of goes hand in hand with the last. To really let go and create, an artist must create for themselves. They can try to be mind readers and think about what the public will relate to, but in the end, they have no way of knowing. A creator must just be content with creating and sharing something they are passionate about. When they genuinely are just creating for themselves, they can be their most authentic and create their best work. I know I had to make peace with this; what I was writing was relatable and special to me. I am writing from my heart and am so thankful for this outlet in Meer that gets me writing on a regular basis and working toward my goal of publishing a book.