This month, we’re discussing Creative Strength, but we start in a less fun place.
Survival:In order to move to a place of strength, we must first acknowledge what’s holding us back. In many instances, it’s ourselves. Or those voices that only (continue to?) hurt us.
Who are your “Authority Figures”? Those people you look up to, yes, but maybe, just maybe, a little too high on that pedestal?
Are they creators or only critics? Is their criticism helpful or only hurtful? Did you even ask them anyway?
Whose voice?
First of all, your own critical voice is not helping. Ask me how I know.
Your Inner Critic is maybe the last voice you should listen to, but here are a few others you should steer clear of:
Anyone who blames or shames you for creating. Period.
Angry or Bitter Critics who only pick apart what they think they can do better. See also: Blocked Creatives.
Blocked Creatives or Dream Destroyers who only focus on all the problems or obstacles you have or have yet to face.
Anyone who’s criticism would maim you. If you think too highly of them, they’re not a good critic. Steer clear if anything less than the highest praise would hurt.
If, on the other hand, you’re dying to know what they think or what they’d do, and you’re willing to hear it even if it means admitting you need help or surrendering the idea that you have to keep it to yourself to make it special or even killing a few darlings, then go right ahead, but I still say proceed with caution.
At what volume?
Take every piece of criticism with a grain of salt.
If it’s directed at you, hit the reject button. First of all, it’s useless, second, it’s unhelpful, and third it’s damaging. Chuck it.
If it’s directed at the work and it stinks, review it or recycle it. Maybe it’s worth mentioning to another reader. See what an editor or objective outsider thinks of the advice. Maybe you’re too close to it, but maybe it just stinks.
If it’s directed at the work and it feels like angels singing, you’re onto something. I’ve said before and quoted Julia Cameron saying that true criticism should feel like a burden lifted, a light shone, a pathway in the wilderness. It’s an “aha” moment. It should feel and look like one.
Redirection:
Once you know how to divide the criticism, it become easy: a sorting game. Yes//No Good//Bad On//Off
Don’t let the voices in your head, the voices from “The Ivory Power” or any other “Authority Figures” drown out your own creative voice. That’s not the point of criticism; that’s the point of censorship, and they are not the same.
Redirect into something helpful. Give it a rest, a re-read, or another round of criticism. Just don’t give up.
SUMMER READING Videos on Instagram and YouTube!
Check out my channels for the video Introduction, 1 QUARTER Review, and Halfway Video
F(inish) It Framework: Mentality for 2026
I am running my business and my life through the exact framework of my signature program, F(inish) It.
- If you’re feeling burnt out, or like another thing on your list would break you
- If you need to add some intentionality, or you’re ready to stop making excuses
- If you are ready to stop starting and actually cross the finish line
Contact Me or COMMENT below, and we’ll make a customized plan for you and your project.
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