Help Desk 4 Creatives: Letting Go

By Merritt Minnemeyer
arttimesjournal October 18, 2018

It’s my favorite time of year here in the Hudson Valley. The beginning of cozy fireside evenings and apple cider with cinnamon. It gives me the great excuse to channel my inner homebody, nibbling on popcorn and knitting while my husband watches football. Yep, this is the life!

Ok, so granted my idea of “the life” isn’t for everyone. This season, though, does offer its own special opportunities for us all. As the adage goes: Autumn reminds us to let go.

So what can you let go of?

One approach is a material purging. Is there clutter weighing you down? There are numerous sources of wisdom out there that advise letting go of extraneous things. One blog I know directs readers to get rid of any item of clothing that hasn’t been touched in a full year. Another source – and a particular favorite of mine - challenges the reader to hold an item and be with it for a minute or two until you decide whether or not it brings you joy. No joy? Out it goes! (for more on this method, see https://konmari.com).

Perhaps it is a more emotional or spiritual framework that will serve you. For the writers in the crowd, a stream of consciousness journal entry on what is holding on to you may give way to insight on what needs to be released in our past or present. Are you a visually-oriented creative? Try making a model, drawing, or painting of what is stressing you out, then release it – ceremonially if you desire - into the “cylindrical file.” Maybe you can visualize your weight and put a melody to it, or dance it out, or monologue until you can’t monologue any more. In short, use your gifts to let that stuff fly.

However you choose to allow yourself some peace from your heaviness, take comfort in this: you are right where you are supposed to be. There is a reason that we cycle with the seasons. Take Autumn’s cue and give yourself a break. Just as the maple trees are shedding all over my yard, so too can you allow whatever isn’t useful to you fall away. And when in doubt, throw in some cider donuts. ‘Cuz, you know, donuts make everything better ;).

Merritt holds a BFA in Acting, an MPS in Humanistic/Multicultural Education, and is a life-long practitioner and educator in a plethora of artistic media. She serves the arts community in her current role as facilitator of funds after nearly 20 years as a funds-seeker. She lives in Ulster County with her three vibrant sons, two goofy pound pups, newly adopted kitty, and one remarkably darling husband.