When it comes to creativity, the word discipline can present problems. Webster defines the word in these terms: controlled behavior; a systematic method to obtain obedience; a state of order based on submission to rules and authority; punishment intended to train or correct. For many of us, discipline is like taking a dose of castor oil. Admonishing ourselves into action, we "force it down" in order to accomplish our goals.

Discipline is born of resistance. In itself, resistance is not negative, and is certainly not a character flaw. In fact, it is an inherent link in the chain that comprises one's creative process. We all must work through varying degrees of resistance in order to create momentum, which carries us into that delicious natural high we call, "flow."

Why then, does discipline fail us? Why does it often bring on a tangle of inner conflict, stress and guilt that hinders momentum and flow, or even stops us in our tracks? I think the reason is that discipline is too often applied in opposition. When we oppose our resistance, we compound tension and perfectionism. We get so focused on outcomes that we miss the joy of creating in the moment. The discipline that was intended to bring mastery, in fact, brings reluctance and disappointment.

Since this word "discipline" is so highly charged in relationship to the creative process, I prefer to use the word "willingness." Willingness can be cultivated, as long as we are patient as we strive to learn a new way of approach. It takes a little time, but the rewards are great, indeed.

Here's how it works:

Like meditation in motion, the awareness mind accepts resistance with no struggle. The inner eye simply observes the resistance non-judgmentally, creating a soft "container" for it. Then the mind gently shifts its focus back to the task at hand, wasting no time in a draining struggle. Ironically, gentle acceptance loosens and melts resistance. Put another way, normal resistance is now prevented from devolving into a pesky demon that gains control over our endeavors.

As we practice this dynamic, we will notice resistance floating off more easily and more often. We push nothing away. Resistance is simply allowed to dissolve on its own. Conflict, stress and guilt begin to fade. Starting becomes easier. Resistance is replaced by more and more calm. We begin to feel long lost pangs of excitement when we wake in the morning. We are willing to take action, to focus, to let go of outcomes, to surrender and create moment by moment. If we stay loyal to this practice, one day we will notice that our discipline has become our willingness.

© 2002 Barbara Bowen - a professionsal photographer/writer and coach for Arts Professionals - GatewaysToCreativity.com

Daring to be Yourself The aim of the new book, Daring to be Yourself by Peter Shepherd, is to help you achieve a 'wide-awake' state of consciousness, with integrated use of left and right brain abilities, forming the bedrock for breakthroughs in personal consciousness and spiritual insight. The practice is based on the premise that we have learned disabilities that set boundaries to our action and knowing. But no one need accept that they must remain as they were shaped by their hereditary body-mind and by the conditioning of their childhood and culture. This 264-page, $8.95 digital eBook is like a "best of" the Trans4mind site, all brought together for your convenience. But much more than that, it's also an incredibly powerful program for personal growth. Remove the barriers to self-knowledge and reveal your full potential with this step-by-step approach... Daring to be Yourself Our Blog features excerpts from the book plus current news, views and links. "I realize many people use praise in ways that sound frivolous...but I must tell you that your book has changed my life AND I mean that in all ways. I found the entire work wonderfully upbeat, readable and valuable! It really was quite a wakeup call. In the midst of my "trials and tribulations" I had failed to be "me." Anyway, this "talk with you" really did change my life. Thank you! I needed this kind of "kick in the pants." It worked. WOW! You made a huge difference in my world."–Becky, USA A digital copy of Daring to be Yourself is included with purchase of the Start a New Life! home-study course - which is effectively the practical "workbook" that accompanies the book by Peter Shepherd. Working through this course enables you to dare to be yourself and design a brand new life. Expressing your true needs, wants and feelings, you can start to live your life's purpose! After you have purchased the course, Peter Shepherd is available whenever you wish by email, to guide you every step of the way from where you are now, until you are established in a brand new life - the life that you have designed... Start a New Life!