There is often a great deal of anxiety and risk for those who think outside the box. Really, there's not much choice. When we try to ignore our creative side, we become deeply depressed and life seems rather meaningless and bland. Yet, trying to channel that energy into something that resonates with who we are and pays the bills is a difficult, if not impossible, challenge. Either way, there's a whole lot of anxiety.
Mastering Creative Anxiety is the book that anyone who has a non-traditional job, career, or calling should read. I think that a lot of people assume that creative people are very calm and grounded, fully immersed in their craft. When at our best, we are. However, that's not the complete picture. Just like everyone else, we have bills to pay and have to work hard keep that precarious balance between work and life. Moreover, when we let fear, stress, and anxiety run the show, we become scattered, unproductive, and hypercritical.
Recognizing anxiety is half the battle. Letting go of the fear and the imaginary phantoms. Clarifying and pinpointing the real issue. Then, getting back to work.