If a creator is so afraid of judgment that they’re unable to move forward, it might be that the desire to share the work isn’t as strong as the desire to protect themselves. Perhaps art isn’t their role. Their temperament might serve a different pursuit. This path is not for everyone. Adversity is part of the process.

We tend to think of the artist’s work as the output. The real work of the artist is a way of being in the world.

If someone chooses to share feedback, listen to understand the person, not the work.

Universalizing negative feedback takes the pressure off the critic. The critic is putting the blame back on the artist instead of taking responsibility for her opinion.

Art may only exist, and the artist may only evolve, by completing the work.

It’s best to wait until a work is complete to discover what it is saying. Holding your work hostage to meaning is a limitation.

The real work of the artist is a way of being in the world.

Be aware of strong responses. If you’re immediately turned off by an experience, it’s worth examining why. Powerful reactions often indicate deeper wells of meaning. And perhaps by exploring them, you’ll be led to the next step on your creative path.