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Keeping the faith in your art without external validation  

Creators and sole entrepreneurs of today, are not only required to create our art, we also have to create the necessary marketing and "putting ourselves out there" content across the many, ever-changing and growing social media platforms. It is more than a notion to muster up the courage to put yourself out there creatively, only then to have to also create the aesthetically pleasing, witty, relatable and trendy content in the various required formats across the different social media platforms. And after putting all that work into the universe, to not receive the  external support you desired can be extremely discouraging. I know as creators we hope to create, click publish and share and wake up the next day with millions of followers and reviews gushing over our art, but most of the time, that is not how it happens. Take it from me, I know the struggle!  This is why you as a creator can not only be driven by external validation, but in large parts by your own internal approval. The approval and guidance from your intuitive compass; knowing that you are following your heart when creating and whoever your art is for, it will be for. I'm not saying you shouldn't desire any external validation and support at all because as humans we do need and value community. But, I am saying to not let the lack of external validation be the sole driver for the reason you choose not to create and share you gifts with the world. Most creators have the desire to create communities of like minded individuals that see the value of the art they share, but it takes time, discipline and consistency to build those sorts of authentic tribes; which again is why external validation cannot be your only "why" you choose to create. Now of course, this notion is wayyyyy easier to say than to experience and as a neurodivergent and highly sensitive individual myself, trust me, I get it!  But you have to hold the faith in yourself and believe with your entire being in the dreams you have for yourself and your art because sometimes, you will be the only one you've got in your corner.

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"Lavender Heart Tea is a delight...I love it!" N. Webb

3 Tips to Keep in Mind when Creating

1. Know your "why"- Set your intentions for why you are choosing to create what you are creating and do not lose sight of that. When you keep your "why" at the forefront of your mind, it will help you push through on the rough days when self doubt entangles your thoughts. Often, we can get so fixated on what we consider big numbers of followings and support and lose sight of the initial vision. If your "why" is to help people feel seen and heard, even knowing you helped one person is a major win! I keep my "why" on sticky notes surrounding my workspace. The sticky notes serve as constant positive reminders that I am able to refer to throughout the day for bumps of motivation. Learn to detach from what it could or  what you think it should be and just let it be and trust that you made the best decision to create it. 

2. Quality over quantity- In a time where everything is expected to be fast-paced and instant, remember to not let the pressures of creating just for the sake of relevancy lead your creative flow. As I mentioned above, it is easy to become fixated on our social media analytics, especially if you have by chance built a significant following on any of your social media platforms. But again, do not let that determine your artistry pace.  Know that those that truly support your art will never rush you just for the sake of a new release. This is not to be confused with their excitement and/or eagerness for your next project, but true supporters will respect your creative boundaries. Quality work will always surpass mid-level, rushed work. Also, knowing when to step back and rest when needed, is a key step to authentic creation. Even the Creator took a rest on the 7th day.

3. Know that everyone will not like, support or "get" your art- You are not everybody's cup of tea and that's okay! I always say someone that is liked by everyone is putting on different masks to appease the current situation and is not operating from a truly authentic space. When you stand in your true authenticity, you do not have to worry about those that do not like your work. As I mentioned in tip #1, when you know your "why" your art will resonate with those that it is intended to touch and encourage. Again, the girls that get it, will get it! (word to mother, @Khaenotbae) 

Lavender Heart Tea: A Collection of Love Notes Monologues, Short Stories & Poems Dedicated to Reconnecting with the Authentic Self by LaKeshia T. Williams is now available on paperback, Kindle/eBook, and audiobook!

“Lavender Heart Tea is a delight…I love it!” -N. Webb

I wrote this poem of inspiration for all the creators, entrepreneurs, and artists, “I am Enough, Now:”

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Bring “I Am Enough, Now” inspired by this love note home today: