Every time I am facing an impending deadline, I suddenly have an amazing ability to focus and get the work done. It ends up looking great and telling the story that needs to be told. But as I go about the process of completion, I realize a deep-seated bitterness about my work process: Why does it always seem that the last push is full of urgency? Did I procrastinate too much? Did I drop the ball somewhere along the way? Was I not disciplined or motivated enough to do what needed to be done?
A lot of questions that could lead to some serious frustration with myself.
Fortunately, as I took a break from my video editing project to clear my head and do the dishes, I realized that I like my working process because the work gets done and my clients are generally happy.
Yes, there are ways that I can improve the flow and production process, but ultimately, what comes naturally only comes through practice and what we practice comes through a consistent learning process of who we are, what we do, what we know, what we want to know and how to make it all go.
Frustration with oneself can be a good thing, but it can also distract you from the truth that you are right where you need to be, learning the lessons that you need to learn, at this very moment.
Comforting thoughts for a busy day.