Possibilities are only limited by your creativity

 

I have been trying for the past few days to write a blog called “treasured blueprint.” Writing instructions for how I wood carve and create my different projects. However, I have been completely unsuccessful for many reasons. But ultimately the biggest reason is because “it’s not what my heart wants to say right now.” I have also come to realize that the instructions which I follow and have learned may not work for another. I also realized that I can’t give exact instructions because “I don’t exactly have any.” I could share different techniques, but it is up to the person to see “what works.” Honestly, to really learn a technique you have to be shown. It’s usually easier that way. I could share “how I got that finish look.” Unfortunately, most of the time I don’t know how exactly I got it and don’t know if I could repeat it for the same outcome.

            I could try and write how different projects come to me. Honestly, I don’t know, I just feel inspired, and I don’t limit myself when ideas come. I cherish feeling a passion for my work and wanting them to be unique. I know I could do the same project multiple times and probably make good money. However, that is not fun. I enjoy continuing to look for ways I can add or change things with future projects. It got me thinking about the question “what’s a treasure?” Does a treasure have to be a tangible item? I have found the answer is no. It’s simple action of sharing your talent and being there for others willing to help where you can. I feel my works of art are treasured because of the people who receive my work and get to enjoy it.

            I’ve said multiple times that “I can’t draw.” I have dabbled a little in trying to learn how to draw. But honestly “I lost interest quickly.” Why force yourself to learn something that doesn’t interest you when there is another way to be just as successful. And it accomplishes the same task at hand. I find more value in using what I know works for me. I find it easier to make things on the computer and when I do draw, I use graph paper. I could say exactly how I design my work on the computer. Honestly “its boring.” The suggestion I have is “find what works for you,” and “use your resources.” Sometimes I use Microsoft word and sometimes I use Microsoft publisher. Usually, I do the math to size each project and then adjust as needed for my stencil on the computer.  

            Treasured blueprint I feel is learning something new “just by trying.” Having the courage to take something you have always wanted to try and figuring out “how to.” Remember to start out, you must be patient with yourself. Because starting something new and becoming even remotely good at it, it’s not a sprint, it’s a marathon.

            While I’ve been brainstorming this blog I have been able to come up with different phase categories that might help someone brainstorm their adventure they want to try. The first is “what’s your idea?” Second is “design and drawing,” for another person this would be “planning phase.” Where you come up with different steps “to make something a reality. For example, it’s not smart to go from a primarily sitting on the couch to climbing Mount Everest. You must work up to it with your first steppingstone is “doing a 5k race.” Now after you have your plan, you’re in the working phase. Which is where you apply effort to each step. After completing the working phase, you go to the fine tune phase. For my wood carving it’s where I would work on the small details, crisping up the lines, and lots of sanding. In this phase is where your specialized focus on your weaker areas. The last category is obviously the finish line. Where your work is complete or you’re ready to try for the goal, you have set.

            Through this journey I have learned with each project the importance of patience. I must be patient with my tools and not try and force the work to happen. But I also must be patient with myself. This is especially important through the learning process when something is new. When I have tried to force the work to happen something usually doesn’t go right, or something doesn’t come out right.

            With every journey you will have many ups and downs. Being adaptable is very important. As your starting out, “don’t give yourself hard and fast deadlines.” Giving yourself a fast deadline when things don’t go as planned can cause fear, intimidation, which can translate to more mistakes. It can also dampen your motivation to continue to try. Yes, if you’re making things for money, deadlines are a part of life and business. This treasured blueprint is not for business its for “making a difference,” in your own life and the lives of others. Its also giving you a way to learn something new. I found the importance of pacing yourself and enjoying the process. Where you feel ok giving yourself breaks when things are not working out. Not feeling pressured to have work every day on your project.

         

   A treasured blueprint is not exact science. Treasured blueprint is writing your own instructions through honestly trying, exploring, and getting out of your comfort zone. A treasured blueprint is sharing what you have learned and done. Striving to continue to learn, challenge yourself, and improve your new skills every day. A treasured blueprint is enjoying the journey and understanding that perfection is not perfect. Once I can say “I’m a perfect wood carver,” I will need to look for something else today. Because I will not have anything else to learn or challenge myself with. Thankfully I know it will never happen.  

My question for you is. Whats you're blueprint you want to create?