panic is part of my process
Can we talk about the creative process a little bit? I’m interested in finding out what yours is like. I was discussing this topic with Brittni of papernstitch recently… it sounds like I’m not alone.
During every project I have at least one moment ( or day… or week ) of sheer panic. Thoughts like: “OMG, I’m a terrible designer”, “This is never going to look right” and “There’s no way I’m going to finish all of this in time” run through my ( apparently super dramatic ) mind.
But you know what? I’m always happy with the end result. I always finish on time. Projects always leave me with a sense of accomplishment and joy. The projects I freak out about the most are usually the ones I care about and am most excited about.
So, I’m sure I could chill out a little ( getting better at keeping a list of “yay moments” and accomplishments will certainly help ) but I think panic is a somewhat essential part of my process.
What about you?
What is your process like?
Have any usual freak out moments?
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Man, that’s encouraging.
i actually look forward to the freak out moment in my process because that means the best is yet to come. more times than not, i create the stuff i’m most happy with under than pressure and self doubt. funny how that happens. ;)
Definitely! I was in academia for a lot of years, and one of the really helpful things I learned about during that time was impostor complex, basically the fear that everyone will figure out you are a fraud! I think this carries over to my creative life as well sometimes, and I just have to remind myself that everybody else is winging it too. It definitely helps to look back on past victories and listen to upbeat music while working. Thanks for sharing and posing this important question!
Yes! So glad you turned this into a post. I definitely feel like those projects that we freak out / stress about the most are the ones that are most important to us. And we just want to do a good job. P.S. Like I told you before, anytime you are feeling unsure of your design skills, call me and I’ll talk you up! You’re an awesome designer.
-B
I can totally relate! Whenever I cook or bake, both of which I absolutely love, I always have a split second where I am certain that the recipe is not turning out right [even if I have made it several times] & that everyone will hate it. I think it’s a perfectionist thing. I love your blog & am amazed with your creativity!
http://www.nateandmaryclaire.blogspot.com
I experience the freak out panic moment all the time too!! I think I’m going to give your “yay moments” a whirl. Maybe then when I’m panicking I can look back at those and realize I’ve got no need to worry!
Definitely! My best work in college involved all-nighters in studio. Just discovering your blog, love it! I grew up around Savannah Ga.
so good to realize that I’m not the only person that does this. my panic always consists almost entirely of self-doubt – “who am I kidding, I can’t do this,” “this looks terrible,” “they’re going to hate this” to name a few. keeping a list of accomplishments is such a good idea! it would feel so good to pull it out for reassurance when I’m having a down moment.