It was a while coming but I've realised that if I want to live a creative life and create a life worth living then I need to stop periodically and check out what I'm focused on. I might be headed for the wrong finish line or one that stops short of what I'm really after. I create unnecessary challenges for myself when I go straight for product.

"But I want results, for Pete’s sakes!"

Then I realised I need to pay attention to my attention.

So, if you'd like to join me in my explorations then get out your journal or, if you don’t keep one, just grab a pad of paper and a pen to noodle around with as you think. It’s helpful to see your thoughts, to let your brain travel where it wants to go and just try to keep up.

Settle yourself someplace comfortable where you won’t be disturbed for a while. It might be in your own home with some soft music and a hot drink or maybe your local coffee shop would give you more privacy. And someone else makes your hot drink!
Take three deep breaths and focus on yourself.

Relaxed? Good.

Now, ask yourself, “What is it I really want from my creative activity? What is my underlying intention? What would truly make me happy or fulfilled?”

Don’t just settle on the first answer. Keep writing and let yourself chase those random thoughts.

Losing weight is a classic example for me. (Stay with me. I know it's not a creative process but it's a great metaphor!)

What I'm really seeking is a healthier body. So that means the weight loss itself is part of something bigger. By loosening my hold on how that ‘something’ has to look, I allow myself more options and multiply my chances of reaching my true goal - good health.

So instead of focusing on the weight how about a daily walk in the fresh air? That checkup I’ve been putting off? A smashing new outfit or hairstyle? (I know. Not about health but hey, a girl's gotta have bling, too.)

So, what does all this have to do with creativity?

My creative endeavors can suffer from that same strait jacket of Narrow Focus. I forget why I am doing my art in the first place. I go right to product without enjoying or exploring the process. I miss the scenic overlooks because I set my sights on the destination.

So let's mess about and remember why we longed to create in the first place. Let yourself be a beginner. A kid. Draw with crayons. Write a limerick. Start a spring bulb in doors. Try a new recipe. Play with collage. Write our own lyrics to a favorite tune. For that matter, write the tune!

The point is to get in there and play. My revised goal is "Stop making my art so precious and pay attention to what I really want - the joy of the journey."

The rest will follow.