This Could Fail (Why Permission Is Critical To Creative Risk-taking) Images
What if we viewed failure as a legitimate possibility? What if we viewed projects as experiments and mistakes as iterations? If you enjoy this video, please subscribe at bit.ly/spencervideos
Transcript: So, I have this sticky note by my computer and it’s the same note that I have taped onto my journal and pinned to the cork board in my office. It reads, “This could fail.” This could fail. This could fail. I know it sounds negative and maybe even pessimistic. But, actually, it’s the opposite.
For me, “this could fail” is a reminder that every single creative act is an experiment.
It might work. It might fail.
But if it fails, it doesn’t make me a failure as an artist or a writer or a teacher.
Because every failure is another step closer to success.
But it’s more than simply a do-over card.
It’s also a clarion call to take creative risks. It’s a reminder to write blog posts even when I’m not sure what my audience will think. It’s a reminder to sketch these videos even when I don’t feel like a “real” artist. It’s a reminder to keep working on a novel, even when I’m afraid it won’t turn out right.
Sure, I could take the safe route. But I’d rather take a plunge into the creative unknown. I’d rather do things that are challenging.
Because ultimately that’s where the creative life is found.