Struggling with the post-success crash and discovering my rhythm once again. Brought to us by Squarespace. Go to save 10% off your very first purchase of a site or domain utilizing code MAKESOMETHING.
I simply finished up my first solo art program, and it was everything I expected: people showed up, I offered more than expected, I even made the front page of the newspaper. And after that it was over, and instead of feeling amazing, I felt flat. So I went back to where I began as a woodworker: developing a simple memento box, no strategies, no choices, just something to hold the memories from the show while I search for my way back into making art once again.
Hardwood from Kencraft:
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Router Table Top:
Miter Saw:
Planer:
Finish:
Yellow Push Block:
CA Glue (Provided by Overall Boat):.
Little Bandsaw:.
Table Saw:.
Flat Bottom Grind Blade:.
Jointer:.
3D Printer:.
Gauge Blocks:.
Tape Dispenser:.
Epoxy (Supplied by TotalBoat):.
Random Orbit Sander:.
Shark Router:.
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The box is very nice. Have patience with yourself, you’ll be back in the groove soon.
I get this crash multiple times a year and not because I do but pushes for an art show. It comes at the end of anything I pour myself into. It could be a work project, a video game, a good book, learning a new skill… etc. There’s always this “now what” feeling when everything that was before is now less important.
This is growth. You aren’t the same person you were before the show crunch. You’ve evolved. The good news is, the new you will now have even more confidence in your artistic choices. The bad news is you might be more critical of everything you did before. Let it ride and see what becomes of it. I’ve learned to embrace the crash as a sign of growth. The important part is to not be too hard on yourself during the down period.
I just finished my explanation to him about post show crash. It’s a response to your bodies adrenaline dumps during exciting things. Exercise is your friend
@Andi.Mitchell.Designs yes! Exercise. Meditate. Reflect. The healing triad!
I’ve followed your channel for years. I love your style and that you’re true to yourself.
You’ve inspired me in so many ways.
It’s totally normal to feel deflated after a big push like your art show. I would imagine it’s much like the exhaustion after a marathon.
Go easy on yourself, we know you’ll find your passion again.
A wise man once said “ be safe, have fun, stay passionate and make something” … sounds like good advice 😊
Hope it works and no pressure, we’ll be here to watch, like and comment when your groove kicks in.
This is a well known result of achievement. You will find your way again
At the moment like this, I like to organize, clean my workshop and gather inspiration for the next YT season.
Been there with the post success crash. What pulls me out is revisiting my old work to remind myself of those times I felt wonder and delight in just exploring and pushing limits.
Keep plugging away and I am certain that your woodworking enthusiasm will return soon David! Hang in there! 👍👍
Thanks for sharing your creativity and thoughts with us. I don’t get to make as much as I’d like and I enjoy watching you and seeing your brain work.
I felt that way when I finished my Masters degree. Then I felt that way when I finished my Doctorate. So, I get it. Honestly, the thing is, find stuff that makes you happy. Burnout is real. It’s good you took 3 weeks away from it. Maybe you need 3 months away from it. It’s ok. We’ll be here for you when you are ready to come back. Scott from Japan
The fish swimming in the ocean looking for the ocean.
That is an awesome box!! Never stop believing in yourself. And keep going!
As a fellow creative (commercial photographer/filmmaker with 15 years behind me in the industry) whenever I had a big project cross the finish line, I felt the same way after. Being “done” with something makes me feel like I’m all out of ideas or creative energy. I think it really just boils down to needing to take a break and clear your head. It’s like running a marathon, you don’t cross the finish line and then immediately start running another. Breaks are good and they can feel like a creative rut for sure, but I always come out on the other side energized for new work.
Man, I totally feel you on this one. Have been there several times in my life and sadly looking back I haven’t always managed to turn that success into more success in the future. Glad to see you getting back in the shop and I hope you find that next goal to push towards.
Also I’m really bummed that I couldn’t make it to your show. I had it on my calendar for months, but right before it happened something came up and I couldn’t get up there. Hopefully there will be a next time!
Thanks for everything you do! I appreciate seeing you struggle to return to normalcy, or find your new place, or whatever else it is you need to do.
I think we all get the crash after a big project we care about, it’s quite natural. Also there was something very relaxing about this video.
I’m reminded of the Al Stewart lyric: Nothing that’s forced can ever be right, If it doesn’t come naturally, leave it
I just retired after 30 years of teaching. I’m hoping that woodworking will help fill that need to do something constructive with my time while at the same time trying to motivate myself to actually DO the woodworking. I appreciate you opening up and sharing with a bunch of strangers like this.
Been there before and kinda there now. Proud of you for being real with yourself and your audience. Praying for you!
It seemed as though you were not your normal creative, self when you began shooting this video. Glad you were able to take a moment, and recharge your creative batteries. They might not be fully juiced up yet, but keep making and the universe will return you to your normal awesomeness. You got this buddy 🙂