Reach for the Sky

We all know the feeling. As creatives we face it often. You've been working on a tough project all day. The project you think is worth all of your effort and energy. The project you think is going to get you recognition. Your dream project.

Then someone comes along and you ask their thoughts. And they proceed to list six, seven, eight, a bazillion ways your project, your dream project, could be better than it is. And, deep down, you always knew it was not as good as it should be. Even though you've talked yourself into loving it and being satisfied with the result, it just doesn't look like what you dreamed.

Some people may not know the technicalities of a certain technique but can recognize when it doesn't look right. A lot of people who are well-versed in a certain technique can be blunt, forward, and, face it, sometimes down right rude in their presentation of their critique. Don't let the critique from outsiders dishearten you. Rather, use that instruction, even from people who don't know the technicalities of what you're doing, to be built up. Don't let it bring you down, but take it and learn.

Love the instruction.  Do the best you can do in everything (including learning). Learn how to learn. It's a lesson that even people who know need to hear often. I need to remind myself often. Be tough and take it like a pro. Learn and move on to better things. Reach for the sky and don't let anything stop you (especially your own pride).