Stress management: a natural or acquired skill?

A creative person spends a good deal of their time managing their stress level. On the surface they appear to have mastered their fears.  But have they really? What’s their secret? Why does it seem so easy for some?

In the act of creation we operate in a state of bliss, unencumbered by our thoughts. This is not where the problem occurs. Before and after we commit to executing an idea is when our rational mind takes over…and the stress begins.

Will I be able to finish on time? Will the creative well run dry? I'm stressed because_______.

Whatever they may be, our insecurities come marching out to taunt us like monsters in the closet or irrational fears of the dark.

Some of us naturally go to a place of presence awareness when fearful.  Some of us let our fears overwhelm us.

Learning how to deal with your insecurities will determine the success or failure of your efforts.

It is important to know that you have the ability to choose.

Making this choice is an acquired skill and can be developed…if you embrace the process rather than avoid it.

For me the key is to be aware of my breathing. If I am holding my breath I know I’m letting the irrational fears overtake me. Being at peace (with natural breathing) allows inspiration to flow.

Conscious vs. Unconscious Decision-making.

It has been said that the quality of a response is directly related to the quality of the question asked. This is also true with respect to being aware if you are consciously making decision or not.

Moving past patterned responses requires us to learn what our triggers are and knowing what to do to get back to a more natural physiological state. 

Being at ease paves the way for your natural creative thoughts to emerge. Slipping into unconsciousness, habitual behavior will pull you away from your authentic self. The further away you drift from your authentic self the less unique you become.

The choice is yours to make.