I think and write a lot about expectation. It’s an uncomfortable feeling to question whether what I am doing will live up to someone else’s expectation. This is why I rarely do paintings by commission. It stifles my passion and my interest to try to bring someone else’s vision to reality.

I prefer to do what I want to do, and not compromise my artistic voice and integrity.

Sometimes, I inadvertently find myself feeling bad or getting defensive about something someone said.

More often than not, I am only reacting to my own interpretation, and not the intent of the speaker. My insecurities surface.

This does not have to devastate me.

The gift can be found when I step back and consider the words. Can they help me improve? Can they help me understand myself better? Do I value this person’s opinion?

I won’t apologize for expressing myself, nor will I react. I will carefully consider, and move forward with greater awareness. With each challenge, I will grow closer to the artist I am yet to become.