Habits, time and happiness

• How is your art practice going?
• Do you find time to make stuff?
• Do you see a progression?
• Does it feed your soul?
• Is it a daily habit?
• Do you have the support that you want to develop new skills?

When I am in the thick of “should do” projects I often do not see the benefits of certain habits. For example, last fall I took a sketching class and had a habit of drawing little snippets of my day.

• The cars in the a parking lot when I was waiting for my nephews to be released from school.
• The lifeguard station at the beach and happy time at the beach.
• The view from my 4th floor window, where I no longer live.

I did enjoy the class and the drawing process, but it was still something I had to nudge myself to do. My critical voice often stopped me.

Now 6 months later, I look a the little sketches and I am amazed at the strong memories they evoke. I can remember the days and how I was feeling with a bit of joy and satisfaction.

Hmmm? Who would have thought?

• Then I wonder why did I stop drawing?
• What got in the way?
• Is there something I can do to get the habit back?

One thing that I know is different is that the class ended and I did not have the community support.  I know I get more accomplished when I am part of a class or community.

The powerful feelings of pride and satisfaction that this little sketchbook has motivated me to start sketching again. I would never have believed that a little sketchbook could generate such strong and happy memories.

You have to try it!

Put a pen and sketchbook in your bag and pull it out when you find yourself waiting.

Magic could happen.

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from Linda Germain http://www.lindagermain.com/2018/05/habits-time-and-happiness/

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