The Cage
In a few days, I’ll receive my “Outstanding Alumni” award from my alma mater. I haven’t been back since graduating, but this honor has brought back a flood of memories.
One that stands out is of an art instructor who didn’t like my senior exhibition. I had created a series of graffiti-inspired, Banksy-before-Banksy stencil and spray-painted pieces. He called it “disposable.” The exhibition went very well, but that moment stayed with me. I realized how easily others' opinions can create a cage, limiting our creativity. After that, I didn’t paint for decades.
Who is in your way? Who are the nay-sayers around you? Are they your circle or your cage? Consider this your permission to free yourself from the cage. Dream your dream, not theirs. Believe in your vision. Set that raw and rebellious creativity free.?
And for those curious readers, yes, I started painting again.
#breakfree #despiteallmyrage #classof88 #NIU #marketingforthewin #genx
Vice President | Banker | J.P. Morgan Private Bank
1 个月Congratulations again, on the alumni recognition! Thank you for sharing your story and being an inspiration to others??
Founder & CEO / Visionary Entrepreneur with a passion for people development
1 个月Thank you for sharing that (awful) moment with us. Your encouragement is critical as we ALL encounter naysayers. I remember legions of them, doubting everything about improvisation, as I built my uncommon business. Even other improvisers would tell me to quit! I knew, deeply in my gut and heart, that it worked and was transformational. And now, 4 research partners, 5 continents, 3 bestselling books and a million participants agree with me. And Catherine, when is your next art show?! I'll be there!
Financial Planner at Skylight Financial Group
1 个月Congrats Catherine!