What i’ve found in life is the fact that beautiful interesting things are made with the experiences we draw from the highs and lows of life. We need struggles to appreciate the accomplishments and the highs of life are beautiful things to look back on. Have you ever heard a song or seen a piece of art or read a book that spoke to you so deeply, it shot you in the depths of your heart? This is what I am talking about. It can be very difficult for me to find inspiration for my designs and my art. Most of the time I am looking outward, searching for what the people want to see, whats trending right now, who is successful and how can I be like them. When in reality, people appreciate original creations that come from within. Not saying that we can’t be inspired by others, but I make my best work when it comes from my genuine self.
One of Many Lows
I remember, when I first moved out of my parents house at 17, I lived in a shack with no heat, no shower, and a broken toilet. The rent was $100 a month if that helps give you context. It was winter, I was a full time barista and student, and one night I had to decide if I wanted to buy toilet paper or toothpaste with the $3.25 in my checking account because I was out of both. This was an obvious low for me, but now that I am more stable in my finances, I have the support of my husband, and I’ve learned how to balance time and money a little better, I can appreciate what I have now and the fact that I can buy BOTH toothpaste and toilet paper for someone who needs it. Thats a good feeling, it has inspired me to choose how I present myself to people and how I want to show up for them.
Big High
One of the biggest high of my life was the day Josh proposed to me. I worked a shift, I was sweaty, messy hair, not looking cute. I came to where he was living at the time and he took me to the back yard, I turn around and he is on his knee asking me to marry him. I was so dumbfounded, just tears and hugs and phone calls with family. My heart was so full, I can think back to that day and just feel warm. Moments like these inspire me so profoundly. That day felt like a beautiful song, and I’ve made many pieces just thinking about him.
Create Bonds Not Comparisons
Ive used instances like this for my art, my writing, and all my creative outlets. Sharing similar struggles can bring people closer together. It creates a bond in humanity that says, “i was right there with you” “i get it”
In my opinion, this is a much more communal feeling than “i wish i had it like that”. Which leads me to say, the highs of life can inspire others to push harder, but when we are only exposed to peoples accomplishments, highlights, and celebrations, it can make your own life seem less than. This is why social media can be a lie, a lense that cultivates comparison. When in reality, we have all had our lows, and they happen often inevitably. Theres beauty in sharing that through your work or creations.
So, embrace your lows, they have taught you who to be today, they have inspired you to change in ways you didn’t perceive at the time. Use them as fuel to create. There is always a problem that needs solving, why not bring your experience to the table?
The highs and lows of my life allow me to express myself through design and art. Hopefully my work can make someone feel less alone in those times.
I invite you to look back and acknowledge the highs and lows of your life and how they have brought you to where you are today. Create something with them! Thats the beauty of it, we all have different stories to share, so let’s learn from each other!
Thank you for reading
good luck!