This unprecedented time presents a decision for each of us to make: we can choose to lay low and binge Netflix or we can choose to challenge ourselves to step up and create.
At Acceptd, we believe in embracing growth even when it is uncomfortable. We are seeing a time when the economy is struggling, businesses are uncertain of their futures, the live entertainment industry is at a standstill, and nothing is normal. As artists, we all have unique gifts that we can use to solve problems, encourage others, and make positive impacts.
We challenge you to use your gift and embrace growth. It won’t be easy, as this is something none of us are prepared for, but here are a few ways to stay positive and motivated during this time of isolation and uncertainty.
1. Practice Your Craft
We may be feeling alone or contained, but that does not mean we need to restrain our sense of creativity. These next few weeks offer an invitation to become hyper-focused in our crafts. This may mean diving deep into studying elements of theatre you have not yet explored, finally learning those atonal scales you’ve have been putting off, or simply giving unfocused attention to creating something new.
Issac Newton began his theory of calculus, optics, and gravity during his social isolation due to the bubonic plague from 1965 to 1966. What will you do with your time?
2. Practice Generosity
Not only is this prime time to create, but it is also time to share it with the world. Each of us has something to offer and we don’t know just how much it may encourage or inspire others around us. Write a new song and upload it to YouTube, start a new dance challenge on TikTok, draw up an idea that has been in your mind, start a virtual quartet and live stream performances. Generously create and share your gifts with those you love, your community, and the world.
Beyond what we can create, we can practice generosity by being a good neighbor, family member, and friend. Stay connected with your community through the technology we have at hand, ask what you can do to help those who may need it, and stay positive.
3. Practice Gratitude
Above all, it is important to be thankful for what we have in times like these. Believe me, I know how hard it can be for all of our plans and expectations to be completely halted. This situation is completely unparalleled and none of us know exactly how to react. What we can do is take the time to shift our perspective from what we’re missing out on to being grateful for what we have in this moment.
Here is a simple way to practice gratitude:
- Set a timer for 5 minutes and begin writing down what you are thankful for — your cat, your family, friends, favorite instrument, etc. Write it all down! Don’t worry about complete sentences or structure. Simply allow yourself to free write.
- Take a couple of minutes to read back through all you have written down, spending at least 30 seconds on each subject of your gratitude. Really think about why it is so important to you and recall special memories.
- Set a timer for 5 minutes and reflect on what is overall truly important to you. Write things down to help get your thoughts together and clarify your thinking.
Practices like this help us to keep focused on what matters when everything around us seems to be out of control. We are grateful for each of you in our community and for artists worldwide. Without your input in this world, it would certainly not be as beautiful, dynamic, or inspiring.
As artists, let’s stand up for positivity and creativity through these trying times while simultaneously respecting the recommendations for the best health for our entire community.
As always, I look forward to seeing what you create. Share with me how you are coping and creating via email or you can find Acceptd on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter.
Derek DuPont
Brand Marketing Lead
