What to do when you're stuck
What to do when you’re stuck
Dark moments & glitterballs
Sometimes we get stuck.
When writing or producing a piece of work this happens a lot. Sometimes it’s always there, and sometimes it’s just for a moment.
When it becomes more frequent, these spaces within which we find ourselves are often described as dark or gloomy. Sadness, loneliness and depression are often associated with darkness.
By contrast, light is viewed as positive, joyful, hopeful.
One option to explore when feeling stuck, or low can be to imagine or visualize a different space. A light space.
This can be useful to give yourself
a sanctuary,
a safe space to relax,
recover
to consider and understand what “being stuck” is really about, and possible actions to move forward.
So, that’s why it’s useful, how does it work?
Okay, we’re going to engage more than one sense. Music can be really useful in calming the chatter in your mind. You may prefer absolute quiet, meditation or prayer. For the purposes of imagining a light space I offer gymnopédie No 1 Erik Satie Jan Vogler or Divertimento in D Major Mozart
Ok, from here calmly imagine a space full of light. My inspiration for this has been the Louvre Pyramid as an open space where light reflects. I was also inspired by the Royal Academy of Arts, London where a large glitterball had been erected in the courtyard. This courtyard is a small oasis of calm just near the busy Piccadilly and a pause for breath.
By contrast the light space may be open and wide, the top of a mountain, or have no fixed structure
When you have the space imagined, and the silence or sounds have quietened the chatter -
take time to rest, to pause.
Do you feel this rest is what you need the most? Take time and breathe.
You may feel ready to explore your space. How does the light reflect off the surfaces? Are there shady spots and bright exposed spaces? Do the reflections and paths of light reveal how you are looking at things? Where is your focus? Are your concerns distorted reflections or the original object? As you move around how does your perspective change?
What refinements do you need to make in this space, and how will they affect your view of being stuck,? Are there changes in acceptance, or actions that you get the chance to make?
“Radiating possibility to overcome the eddies of gloom”
Show Your Work
The image of the glitterball was taken from a recent visit to the Royal Academy of Arts in London on a very warm sunny day. Photoshop Lightroom was used for editing. Inspired by The Art of Possibility which continues to give words to ideas and thoughts. Also the recommendation of Divertimento.
