Tip #18: Draw Outside the Lines

Courage is the art of being the only one who knows you’re scared to death.”
-Earl Wilson

Lines and boundaries create comfort zones. We often create these walls ourselves — sometimes without knowing. Can you imagine a life without these borders? I certainly couldn’t. They kept me “safe.” I could do no wrong within them. I could be “perfect.” Beyond these walls, I feared people judging my imperfections. And I still do… but slowly these walls are becoming weaker and coming down.

Now, think of one thing you don’t do, but would like to try — if only you were talented. For example, I wanted to be creative. But I never allowed myself to touch anything “creative,” because I couldn’t do it perfectly. I forced myself to begin trying slowly – one step at a time. It began with a scrapbook for my sister’s 21st birthday — and then an inspiration board. What could you do today to move beyond your comfort zone – one step away from what you know into the unknown? Take that step and know that just making the effort is weakening the walls around you.

Take Home Message:

Reward yourself for taking one step forward. Don’t push yourself into thinking it’s an all or nothing game. One step is far greater than standing still.

“… I want to share a little secret with you. And I really want you to keep this close to your heart and remind yourself of it whenever you need to: there’s no way to get it wrong. None. Nada. Whatever you do on this journey is absolutely perfect – so leave your worries at the door and play!”
-Jamie Ridler (from The Next Chapter: Wreck This Journal)