Limitations Aren't All Bad

I paint. Every new piece starts on a blank canvas with very specific dimensions. These boundaries limit what I can do. Often, I push the limitations even further on purpose - working only in one color, setting a timer, using an unusually large brush or no brush at all. The same is true for writers, chefs, dancers or any creative endeavor. The limits of the material, stage or soil redefine what is possible by pushing the artist to jettison the limitless scope of their imagination and to focus on just the options at hand. Out of this restriction emerges art - the creation of potential from unexpected ingredients.

Limits made to harm or suppress should be vigorously challenged. But many obstacles are just the result of facing life as it is. No one has an unlimited budget; no one has all the staff they need; no one knows everything. Humans are by nature, limited. The fun starts in the studio and in the workplace when we face those limitations with curiosity, tenacity and creativity.

Here are three ways embracing limitations have produced life for me.

1. Since I am not divine (spoiler), I need other people to accomplish almost everything of importance. Sure, we think we know this, but often don't act like it is true until we get into a jam. Early in my career and after a few episodes of trying to do too many things on my own, I began to appreciate my inherent limits and the wisdom of building a great team to accomplish goals. Limits drive us to welcome the gifts of others.
2. I can imagine limitless ways to face a problem; I'm a great brainstormer. But once a limitation has been faced and dealt with, my impulse to try out novel approaches to that same challenge is no longer helpful. Wasting inordinate time redesigning what works is a new hindrance. Limited time drives us to "good enough" solutions that can be tweaked later. Some call this efficiency, but really it is just good solutions made into repeating work habits. Limits drive us to develop systems for our work.
3. This may seem odd, but having limits has caused me to more open to surprise. Even in a world crammed with limits, good and wonderful things exist. My list includes some chart toppers (sunrises, fresh tomatoes, a well mixed Martini) and the ever shocking experience of love and laughter. Facing limits caused me to see that the world is an inexplicable gift. Limits drive us to receive life with gratitude.

What are the limits you are facing that vex you? Is there a way to think about them from this vantage point of an artist? Which lessons do your limits teach you?