Frayed nerves, broken glass, and really … what’s the point? [69]
Reaching breaking point isn’t much fun. So what do you so when it all just gets a bit too much?
This week, we address an email from a listener who writes “Could you and Alice address the “what’s the point of art”, “what do I do with all this crap” sort of issues? I’ve not listened to the news for a while now, but am actually listening to very little at all. Sometimes I find people too jolly, too positive, so I guess I’m looking for gentle, encouraging, empathetic. I can’t seem to pull myself up at the moment.”
In response, we discuss how much it is our responsibility to change our mental state … and how can do it. We also suggest that the question should be ‘what is the point of art for ME?’ Understanding this gives you motivation to show up even when you don’t feel like it.
Interestingly, we feel differently about this question and have different solutions, so hopefully you will resonate with one of us.
We also discuss the ‘butterfly effect’ and why it might be a good thing and we share the ways in which we change our own moods (including a rather drastic strategy Alice recently employed (and is not recommending to others!)
Mentioned:
Extras outtakes: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D_thjUPE1i4 and https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bQMg8Ve1Gy0
Abraham Hicks Find Yourself First: https://youtu.be/1ddJyJoSOrg
Art in Isolation episode 1: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AoqTM4IljJM
Gretchen Rubin Four Tendencies Quiz HERE
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Credits
“Monkeys Spinning Monkeys” Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License
I echo Suzanne’s sentiment above, Alice. You guys’ discussion today touched on SO many relevant experiences I’ve had as an artist, both during this time of quarantine, but also during other times. And yes—incredibly relieved to hear your story about the window. I pulled a similar stunt in my early 20s during a very trying time of life, and I’ve always held a bit of shame around that, so hearing that I’m not the only woman out there who took out her anger and stress on glass made me a feel a lot better! Hah, thanks for your vulnerability. Much love to you both!
Ah Alice, I loved your story today! I was laughing out loud, mainly because I have done something similar involving a door. So relieved to hear there are other stories like that. You and Louise make such a great pair. During this time I have been re-listening to the podcast from day 1. It’s so great!! I’m in CVP as an alum right now and so depressed because we actually moved during the first part of our shutdown (US) and haven’t been able to participate as much as I wanted to, but I think really soon I will be ready to throw my stuff up and by the end have something to show. Take care!!!