“A creative life is an amplified life. It's a bigger life, a happier life, an expanded life, and a hell of a lot more interesting life.”
Elizabeth Gilbert
When the discomfort of the unknown strikes, it can take hold as a tidal wave of panic. We'll scour the internet for answers on what haircare products to buy to fight frizz, diagnose the pain in our pinky, and which restaurants are worth the while. We don't just buy things without influencers telling us what to use, discern which internet doctor gives the "best" advice, or go to a restaurant without knowing exactly what to order. Our exposure to novel experiences lacks an element of surprise. The intolerance for uncertainty has increased anxiety. Tolerating ambiguity is an art form- it's messy, self-supported, and beautiful. How do we dive into this art and embrace all the shades of grey?
We Need to be Afraid. Relationships are the place to practice being brave and afraid. Whether making new friends, having a significant other, dating, or being content with who we surround ourselves with, relationships take risks. Wonder occurs in the absence of certainty. Society traded wonder for science, making life more stringent and restrictive in the name of being "right." Creativity has no right or wrong; it's what you make of it. Ignite a sense of wonder through your imagination, have conflict, and be the author of your story rather than a reader searching endlessly for what to do next.
Let's Be French for a Moment. Between the Paris Olympics and bingeing Emily in Paris, I've been intrigued by French culture. A quote that stood out from Emily in Paris season two is when Sylvie says to Emily, "I don't want a hundred percent of anyone, and I don't want anyone to have a hundred percent of me." While this may be regarding having multiple lovers, there's something broader and deeper we can take away from how other cultures live, love, and let go of labels. Grab a croissant and lean in.
America the Efficient. Productivity, efficiency, and assuredness make America innovative and obsessed with being the best. We may take it too far. We tend to over-identify with the roles we play. Work is no longer what we do but part of who we are. Relationship statuses must be determined, the IRS demands it. Hobbies turn to side hustles- what's the point if not to make some income? The invasive all-or-nothing mindset makes us more serious and less playful. We might not be able to change how America operates, but we can change our attitudes to be fluid in all shades of grey.
Flirting with Unfamiliar. If you were to engage in an activity that has these requirements:
- Must be somewhat novel
- Not productive or perfect
- Involves other people
What would you choose?
Let's start with where to look for such activities. It's simpler than you think. Choose a friend who has slightly different interests from yours. (Recently, I heard of two friends trying dragon boat racing for the first time. Great example!). If you have a friend who does art, attends a weekly hangout, church service, or literally ANYTHING DIFFERENT, ask to join. The best way to expand your world is to be encouraged by others and pay it forward by encouraging others back.
With you in all of the shades,
Brittani
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