In our world of constant stimulation and endless to-do lists, it’s easy to find ourselves with attention scattered across a dozen different things, often leaving us with little time for what truly matters in our lives and art practice. This division of attention not only prevents us from pushing forward in the areas that matter most but can also be deeply exhausting when we try to do too many things at once.
I say this as someone who is unapologetically complex – my interests are incredibly diverse, ranging from fibre art and writing to business mentorship and workshop facilitation. And I won't ever change that diversity; it’s at the core of who I am and what I offer to the world. But here’s what I've learned: within each of these areas, I need to streamline my activities. Otherwise, I risk spreading myself too thin. It's like what Bilbo Baggins said in The Lord of the Rings: “I feel thin, sort of stretched, like butter scraped over too much bread.”
So, here’s my challenge to you for this month: Simplify. Take a moment to reflect on the many activities, interests, and obligations in your life. Are there areas where your attention is divided? Are there projects or commitments that don't genuinely serve your growth as an artist or the things that matter most to you?
Choose one area of your art practice or personal life to simplify. Whether it’s clearing away distractions in your studio, streamlining your creative process, or saying no to commitments that drain your energy, take one tangible step toward greater focus. Simplify to amplify what truly matters.
Let’s see how a little less can help us create so much more.
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