Other Times
(WIP- My Interpretation of Terry Goodkind’s, Richard Rahl, standing before the Temple of the Winds)
In my previous post, I focused on making time each day, and “investing” it in a beloved hobby or talent; investing time in something that you truly enjoy, regardless of how “inspired” etc. you may or may not be.
But today I want to touch on the importance of taking a break. Something that I feel I do too often, and maybe many of us are guilty of that. It’s important to step away from our hobbies (that applies to other pats of life too). Getting away, even for a moment’s time, allows us to refresh our mind. When we return we will have fresh ideas and a reinvigorated zest for what we are doing, not to mention, the physical benefits of taking a break.
I don’t simply mean go away for five minutes, (though that can be a dramatic help if you’re at a sticking point), I mean more like taking a day or two vacation from it, where you don’t think about it at all; really let it ht the back burner for a spell. Use that time to learn something that can be translated or applied to your craft, or indulge in another hobby or pastime; something else that brings you entertainment and joy.
I like to take breaks from art and immerse myself in the things that either will expand my knowledge which can later be applied to my art, or participate/take-in things that use art similar to mine. So I research history, anatomy of things aside from humans, the latest science concepts etc. or I play video games, watch movies, read books, play a table-top role-playing game, all the while drooling over some of the great art featured in them, and finding new artists who inspire me, and possibly new clients to approach.
Then, when I do return to art, I have so much more knowledge, and new ideas, and a more focused intent, that things come easy and encourage me to keep going. It doesn’t hurt either that those first few days, I seem to be able to really pump out quality work, that I can be proud of.
So, if you have been a slave to your hobby lately, or feel that it’s a drudgery and everything just isn’t rocking-your-socks, maybe it’s time for a break. Go read that latest book that all of your friends are talking about, or catch up on The Walking Dead, or maybe research the new technology or techniques all the youngsters are using these days to do the same craft as you. maybe it’s even time for you to leave your dungeon and get some face time with friends for some food and drinks! Go on, I give you permission.
You’ll be better for it, and your projects will be too.
The Toilings of Dennis Darmody 