All forms of self-expression can be scary if you haven’t reached a level of freedom within yourself. This is a personal journey I recommend for everyone, as I have traveled and experienced it firsthand. The expression of one’s feelings, thoughts or ideas, especially in writing, art, music or dance, can be a liberating experience for a person’s heart.
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It took me many years to actually understand the importance of self-expression. For me, I honestly didn’t want to voice my opinion or express myself in public. Why, you ask? My fear was much stronger than my passion for self-expression. I remember drawing and painting my emotions away on canvases, which was actually considered therapy at the time. I felt a sense of release that nothing or no one could give me. Perhaps it was the colors I chose that would lift my spirit or the paint strokes that would calm my nerves from whatever life challenge I was facing at the time.
With all of my thoughts bottled up and caged in my mind, I would hide my work from the naked eye of others. I wasn’t interested in being judged or laughed at — or even frowned upon, to be honest. Those little voices in my head would create a war, telling me I’m not good enough, why am I wasting my time with this, I am not Picasso.
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Over the years, I realized if you don’t allow yourself to be free with your signature of self-expression, no matter what your gift may be, you will not experience true happiness and joy. Some of the most joyful people I know are dancers and artists of some kind. They are creative spirits flowing in pure bliss, and I absolutely love it. The energy is super vibrant, and their joy comes from being free within themselves. They know who they are and what they stand for. I defiantly encourage you to do the same.
How do you express yourself?
When we are able to push the fear aside, new ways of perceiving the world are open to us. Finding the courage that releases you from any fear of expressing yourself is all about your personal journey. We don’t know exactly how others will respond — and honestly, it really doesn’t matter.
Self-expression is like breathing
This is how we interact with others and the world. Never be afraid to shine your true light. Some of us pretend to be or feel what we are not, and we deny ourselves the enjoyment of who we really are.
- How do you like to express yourself and why?
- Is this something that is hindering or helping you?
- If you were to do this every day, would you experience joy?
Never shy away from who you are. Be free within yourself with your very own creative self-expression.
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Denita Austin is a bestselling author, publisher and yoga coach
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