Continuing the conversation from last week, I’d like to share my favorite story about perfectionism, from the book Art and Fear, by Bayles and Orland. Although the authors frame perfection specifically in terms of artists, their observations apply to perfectionism of any kind. And if you read it closely you will likely find something in … Continue reading
Perfectionism
Considering this week’s theme has been all about creativity, I thought I’d briefly stick my toe into the waters of perfectionism. Perfectionism. An experience most creatives are intimately familiar with. I know I certainly am. If I don’t carefully watch where I’m going, I can easily step into a perfectionistic mud hole. The big problem … Continue reading
Keeping the Channel Open
Susan Boyle is a sensational role model for keeping the channel open, no matter what. We can all be inspired by her willingness to embrace her talent and let it out into the world. And as a follow-up to my post about her yesterday, I thought it fitting to revisit Martha Graham’s famous words to … Continue reading
Susan Boyle
Like the rest of the world, I’ve been captivated this past week by Susan Boyle, the seemingly ordinary middle-aged woman who appears to be extraordinarily talented. I’m one of those who got goose bumps when I heard her sing. It helps that I’m a big fan of Les Miz in general and the song she … Continue reading
Spring
April has got hold of me. She firmly grasped me by the shoulders and said (somewhat urgently), “Don’t wait any longer.” April is my birthday month, and I love her combination of fierceness and gentleness. I consider April the true start of spring, which brings with it an urgency to clear out, clean out, and … Continue reading
Decisions
Spring has arrived and the garden is waking up. Although some plants are still a bit groggy, there’s enough rise and shine action to get me excited. The tall rosemary has burst out in tiny blue flowers, the evergreen clematis has resumed its fragrant march over the arbor, the native grasses have bounced back nicely … Continue reading
Wake Up Calls
I’ve been away from the blog for a few weeks because of an unexpected turn: my husband’s almost-84 year old mother was diagnosed with cancer and hospitalized. The end of her life came quickly, and I admired her willingness to let go. She was at peace and told my husband, “I’m ready to see what’s … Continue reading
Worst-Case Scenarios
What’s your worst-case scenario? You know, the BIG worry that flattens you to your chair. The horror movie moment where you have to cover your eyes because you don’t want to look at the screen. These days, worst-case scenarios are like low hanging fruit, easy to pick but on the way to rotten. Oddly enough, … Continue reading
The Wishing Year
Last week I ventured out on a rainy night to listen to Noelle Oxenhandler read from her book, “The Wishing Year.” I debated hunkering down by the wood stove instead but was so glad I didn’t, because not only was Ms. Oxenhandler’s reading a delight, but the Union Hotel in Occidental turned out to be the ideal setting: … Continue reading
Job Search Magic
A few months ago I was interviewed for an article on job search. When I explained to the Sacramento Bee journalist that there’s no magic formula for getting a job during a recession, she seemed disappointed. I wasn’t surprised, because I often get the same response from clients and potential clients. They’re hoping I’ll perform … Continue reading
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