(Using old plaid knit fabric I draped this top. It's a halter style fitted bodice top with underbust gathers and has a flared midriff which I intend to further flare)
So I want to focus on that draping project for a second. It seems like it's been a symbol of sorts. I danced around the idea of finishing it, critiquing it, and claiming it wasn't finished but in reality it was. My reluctance clearly spelled out my problem but I already knew my problem and have been working/struggling to dispel it. It's been FEAR. That's right, I said and I admitted it. And it's not been the first time I've been frozen by it. Well in my case I haven't been entirely frozen but let's just say I have been moving very slowly because of it. Doubting my skills, stretching out the completion of projects, being entirely too hard on myself when I was indeed doing very good work. These were all the sabotaging works of fear. But over the last few weeks thanks to some great advice, insight, wonderful mentors and divine intervention I've been digging myself out of that hole. And being in a physically incapacitated state only confirmed that FEAR is a lousy excuse for not rising to a challenge or fulfilling your dreams. In the midst of being sick I so wanted to really get up and sew but didn't have the strength to. It's funny how for once my body actually mimicked what my mind oftentimes did to me. It was my fearful thoughts that have been keeping me incapacitated for so long. It's really crazy how you can build your own mental prison. Again, it's amazing how much clarity you have when you're at a low point. It's probably one of the best results. It's because of this moment that I NOW stake my claim that if I'm not going to reach my goals "I've got to have a better reason than fear". Fear seems so trivial and powerless at this point. It's lost it's intimidation factor. Temporary sickness stopped me in my tracks and thankfully gave me much insight!
I'm all better now (thank GOD--I'm well 99.9% of the time and can't take being sick)---- but I have a new mindset! I've turned over a new leaf and am thankful for it.I'm READY to complete my draped top and will! Realistically, I realize that fear NEVER goes away entirely. If fear has been a nuisance to you and the pursuit of your dreams, goals and passions I hope you have the courage to "kick it to the curb" too! May the COURAGE you exude overshadow all your fears! I wish you the very best. And now I'll leave you with one of my favorite quotes---it's a little crude but WONDERFULLY TRUE!!!
Glad you are feeling better and kicked that fear to the curb.
ReplyDeleteFear is beast that grows in strength and intensity if don't get it under control. I am glad to hear your are feeling better and that you are surrounded by great folks whose support helped you tame the beast and sent it away.
ReplyDeleteFear can be so paralyzing. Great to hear you have taken on that beast. You can beat it! Happy to hear you are feeling like yourself again!
ReplyDeleteThanks so much for sharing. I needed to read this today.
ReplyDeleteI needed to hear this today. I need to make a bridesmaid dress for a friend and I've been stalling. I'm afraid, that's it, plain and simple. I am about to enter a design business and my own fear keeps me from moving forward. Thanks for posting this.
ReplyDeleteSo glad you're feeling better. Thanks for sharing this awesome post, it was much needed for me. Keep up the great job you are doing!
ReplyDeleteThanks so much for sharing - I, too was struck down with this virus that sneaks up on you (long, silent incubation period). Your blog is an inspiration and your finished clothes are beautiful.
ReplyDeleteThanks for sharing Victoria and so glad you're feeling better! I agree, fear can be very crippling for some and I think we've all been there at some point too!
ReplyDeleteThank you for this post. I really needed to read this. I have some adjustments to make about the realization of my personal goals as well.
ReplyDeleteSo glad you're on the mend. Look after yourself.
ReplyDeleteSorry you feel ill, and hope you are doing better.
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