I’m having a hard time writing these days.
It’s not writer’s block – I have ideas.
The reality is – I’m afraid. I have one job that’s so important to me I’m frozen with anxiety. I can’t write because I’ve put too much pressure on myself to make it ‘perfect.’ (An utterly unobtainable goal – Hey, you! I’m talking to you! Yes, you in the back! Perfection isn’t a goal, it’s a construct. Do your best and let it go!)
I’m not a huge believer in jumping off the diving board. My usual approach to fear like this is to take a breath and figure out why. To analyze my disposition logically, to see the block (thereby it dissolves – monsters can’t live in the light), and then move forward with confidence.
Without analysis, thoughts fester and release foulness into other areas of the brain. I try to address these things as quickly as possible – refusing them is like stomping my foot and going home. An immature response to my own feelings.
Left Turn: My sister is a nanny and has some great advice. “Sometimes you have to shove the little bugger in his coat.” Sometimes, you have to take control of a child when they have no control at all.
I believe that sentiment applies here. My fear and anxiety are wrapped up into a small tempest/child. And it’s time to ‘shove the little bugger in their coat.’ To make them do what they need to do so they can do what they want to do.
I don’t believe in ignoring my emotions; just the opposite! But occasionally, I have to look past the tangled knot in my head. After analyzing the situation over a few days (the duration makes the difference), the monsters wouldn’t budge, so I’ve deduced the best solution is to simply move forward, regardless of the tempest.
Once I start, it’ll be fine – but I have to start.
I’m shoving so we can go play outside.
Here’s a coat.
Skinny Grey Dog 
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