PEAP Misnomers, moods and other misunderstandings

Hi PEAP Readers,

So we are about two months into The Positive Energy Art Project. It has been interesting and I am so grateful for the submissions and feedback that I've gotten. I've had so many interesting conversations with people who are following the blog as their participation, those that shared an effort with us all and then with some people who are, well, somewhere between the two. 


Several people shared their thoughts about submitting and the things that have gotten in the way. I've heard about feeling that one's effort is not "good enough" or "successful" in creating positive energy. I've heard about how difficult it is, that in the middle of a really challenging life, it is hard to step back and do something, anything. Then there is intimidation, and feeling not particularly positive or empowered to make any sort of difference. Then there is indecision. "Should I do this? What about this? Or that, or this..." And forgetfulness-- "I meant to, but forgot..." And of course comparisons, "That person is so positive, my effort isn't as interesting or profound."


All of these ways we stop ourselves from doing something to bring more goodness into the world. This really interests me.


Let me share that I started this project during a particularly difficult time, because it was so hard for me to engage positively with the world. I needed help. I was procrastinating with doing artwork after taking all this time to set up a studio in my little NYC apartment... it just sat there. I was intimidated, didn't feel like a good enough painter or wondered if anyone would be interested in anything I did. But beginning this project has transformed things as I let go of concerns of whether what I did was good or not, and just focused on being in the process of creating.


For whatever reason, whether we are neurobiologically wired to focus on threat for protection, or just are so lost in the stories in our head, stepping outside of the routine to generate some positive energy feels overwhelming sometimes. I really appreciated what was shared by the PEAP #7 submission, because it is true. It can be a struggle, and yet once we start, so much becomes possible.


Let me clarify something. There is no such thing as "failing" at this. We are all in our own exploration. What is positive energy in my life is different from yours and yours from mine and everyone else. It is a question.


So, no judgement. Share what you wish. Don't share what you don't wish. It doesn't have to be complex, or fundamentally transformative. You can write one word about the experience or a dissertation. What matters is in the doing not the outcome. 


Peace to you in 2012,
Jen


http://positiveenergyartproject.blogspot.com/2011/10/invitation-to-participate-in-positive.html