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Maria Santos's avatar

Parenthood makes you think in seasons and I’ve always told myself I’d get back to my creative goals when things calm down. But reading this made me see that life doesn’t really slow down on its own. You have to make space for the things that light you up. I love the image of watering the tree that Chloe mentioned. Even when it doesn’t look like much is happening yet. That’s a lesson I can pass to my daughter too. Thank you for the inspiring read and for this community Idris Elijah!!

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Idris Elijah's avatar

Wonderful insights and I’m so happy for you! Yeah, Chloe was spot on with that image. So pleased I continue to put out inspiring reads 🙂 This community is great, so glad you’re here 🙃

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Brian Robert's avatar

I heard someone say recently that the best time to plant a tree is 500 years ago. The next best time is now. Time really does move faster than we think. I look back and realize there are ideas I was excited about five years ago that I never acted on and now I barely remember the details. I love your reminder to nurture a spark before it fades and that the best time is now. I’m going to start treating my ideas like living things. If I don’t feed them regularly, they’ll wither. No more waiting until I have more time. The best time is now. Thanks for the motivating content Idris!

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Idris Elijah's avatar

Yes, the best time is always now or maybe 20 years ago.lol I’m pleased you’re taking your ideas seriously and desire to feed them regularly. So important! 🫡

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Chloe Lawson's avatar

I’ve got more half-finished drafts than I care to admit and it’s because I fall in love with the spark but abandon them before the obsession sets in. A lot of times I convince myself my writing needs some big breakthrough before I can continue.But you made me realize that small, consistent effort is the breakthrough! This makes me think of the analogy of watering a tree that my grandpa used to share with me. I’m going to commit to a daily word count, even if it’s tiny, and trust that the roots are growing even if I can’t see them yet. Thank you once again for the inspiration Idris Elijah!

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Idris Elijah's avatar

You’re most welcome Chloe! I’m so glad you’re thinking to commit daily to your craft, and hopefully finishing more drafts. I know you have this under control. Glad to be of some inspiration. 💪🏾😊

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Jody Freedman's avatar

I really appreciate your honesty about the ups and downs of creative work. I’m juggling my 9-5, journaling, yoga, painting and many other things! The transition from curiosity to obsession is so real and it’s great to see someone embrace that messy and unpredictable process rather than just the polished finished product. It’s a practical and inspiring perspective so thank you for the push Idris Elijah! And speaking of curiosity, will you be sharing your special project with the community one day?

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Idris Elijah's avatar

Love love your insights here. You hit the bullseye. You gotta embrace the mess and unpredictable process. Success isn’t linear it’s a lot of ups and downs. Brilliant comment Jody! And I haven’t quite decided yet, but you’ll know as soon as I do 😉

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