Hello Brave Souls!
Growing up, we often heard the old adage, "Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me." This childhood phrase was our armor, our shield against the slings and arrows of unkind words. Now, life's journey reveals a richer truth - words wield the power not just to hurt, but to mend, elevate, and ignite. At the heart of our creative quest, transforming our inner dialogue is pivotal. It's time to delve deeper into this realization and explore how transforming our inner narrative can catalyze a revolution in our lives and creative endeavors.
“Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words can also hurt me.
Stones and sticks break only skin, while words are ghosts that haunt me.
Slant and curved the word-sword falls, it pierces and sticks inside me.
Bats and bricks may ache through bones, but words can mortify me.
Pain from words has left its’ scar, on mind and heart that’s tender.
Cuts and bruises have not healed, it’s words that I remember.”
In the realm of creativity, words are not mere vehicles of communication; they are the very fabric from which our dreams and visions take shape. Consider the impact that negative self-talk can have on your creative process. It stifles innovation, dampens motivation, and dims the vibrant light of your imagination.
In the heart of creation (BraveSpace), where courage meets vulnerability, lies the risk of misunderstanding—of sharing a piece of your soul only to find that its reception isn't as warm as the passion that fueled its birth. It's that pivotal moment when you unveil your newest artwork to someone whose opinion matters deeply to you, and their response is anything but supportive. They aren't trying to wound you; they’re merely voicing their perspective. Yet, despite their intentions, your heart stings with the sharpness of rejection. This scenario is painfully common in the creative journey, and I understand how tricky it is to navigate these waters with both resilience and grace.
When someone close to us doesn't connect with our work, it doesn't detract from its worth or the sincerity poured into its creation. Recognizing the value of varied feedback on our growth as artists is crucial. Like brush strokes on a canvas, each piece of criticism—glowing or grounding—carves our path towards evolution. Unfavorable responses don't diminish the worth of our work nor the passion behind its creation. Instead, they invite us to refine our vision and maybe understand our audience a bit better. Often, the most profound insights arise from the most unexpected places.
Moreover, at the core of my philosophy is the belief in Visionality—a seamless blend of vision and reality, where personal and professional development converge through creativity. Embracing criticism constructively, even when it feels personal, propels us closer to our ideal selves and projects. It's about weaving resilience into the tapestry of our creativity, transforming every setback into a stepping stone towards mastery and self-discovery.
Additionally, nurturing a community of support plays an invaluable role. Within the sanctuary of BraveSpace.Center, creators and entrepreneurs alike find solace and strength in a collective that values empathy as much as excellence. In moments of doubt or discouragement, this network serves as a reminder that you’re not walking this path alone. Together, we celebrate every triumph and navigate every challenge, empowered by the shared belief in the transformative power of art, innovation, and collaboration.
The journey of a creator is neither straight nor devoid of obstacles. It’s a mosaic of experiences, emotions, and lessons that, collectively, shape us into the artists and visionaries we aspire to become. Remember, when faced with unenthusiastic reactions to your work, it's not the end of your story but a pivotal chapter in your ongoing saga of empowerment.
The childhood saying that once served as a protective mantra reveals a deeper truth. Yes, words can hurt, but in recognizing their power, we unlock their potential to heal, to build, and to inspire. We're not just creating art; we're crafting the worlds we wish to see, using the most potent tool at our disposal: Words. Each word you utter, write, sing or think, brings you one step closer to transforming your audacious creative endeavors into your lived reality. Let's re-weave the narratives together, proving that with the right words, sounds and images, anything is possible.
Together, let's embrace vulnerability, harness our collective strengths, and transform the world one brave space at a time.
Marta Reis | martareis.com
Channel your inner visionary; the world awaits your brilliance.
P.S. Most of these reflections and lessons where learned this weekend with Nessi Gomes, her Vocal Odyssey experience and amazing guests, Emma Zeck and Marya Stark. Read other reflections and more about my experience here.
I feel continued deep gratitude as well for the years of applying lessons learned with Xi and her EarthStar.Academy and the Womb Health Organization.
Listen to Xi’s nature sound healing while reflecting and writing…a great inspirational tool!