In case you need motivation, consider entering a competition in your chosen field.I have probably ten unfinished projects laying out on my work bench on any given day. Those unfinished projects call to me, beg me for their attention, and then lay there, unloved, uncared for. And why? Because I don’t have a deadline staring me in the face.
This week, I made two complete necklaces, with the goal of finishing three, the best of which would be entered in the International Glass Bead Society Jewelry challenge called Convergence. The theme was the four elements, and the idea was to collaborate with another artist, a jewelry artist. Being both a beadmaker and an artist, I decided this was a challenge I’d be happy to fill on my own, which fortunately is an option in the jewelry show.
I worked every day on these three pieces, finished and photographed two, and here they are. I am so gratified! Filled with accomplishment. It is the highlight of my week! We have had snow and ice, and my dogs can’t even walk on the surface of my lawn without falling down, so they are stir crazy barking maniacs who are dying to go out for even a moment, though they stand and do nothing. I have had a hellacious cold, and have used up a bottle of Dayquil and almost finished a bottle of Nyquil between me and my husband who has also been sick.
And yet what treasures I find I have made! What a blessing. My unfinished projects cry out to me, “Me next! Pick me! Finish me!” And I smile, because I know I’m taking a break!