"Unapologetically Me": A Journey Through Creative Paralysis and Renewal

Have you ever felt frozen, trapped between the urge to create and an invisible barrier holding you back? I'm thrilled to introduce "Unapologetically Me," the second short film in the FEAR-LESS Collective series. This film captures the often unspoken struggles that accompany the creative journey along with the moments of doubt, paralysis, and the profound effort it takes to rise again.

The Story Behind "Unapologetically Me"

"I'm not in a creative block, but I feel a resistance. The endless dialogue of 'you're not doing enough' and 'you're not where you want to be' are debilitating, paralyzing. I freeze."

These words open a window into the internal battles that many of us face. "Unapologetically Me" is a deeply personal exploration of the emotional weight that can accompany creativity. It reveals the fog of self-doubt, the moments of stillness when action feels impossible, and the determination to rise again.

I was given the prompt of 'creative block' by Joe and Nik (the creators of the film) and I set out to write about it. I wanted to be honest with my personal experience. I don't think I experience creative block in the sense of a shortage of ideas, however I feel stuck in other aspects of my life that bleed into some form of creative block.

I experience functional freeze phases and it's in times like that where it truly feels difficult to show up for myself, my art and my business. Journaling along with other ways that I talk about in the film, have proven to help get out of my freeze state. All in all, it's just about giving myself grace to feel the feels and know that I won't be in that state forever.

Finding Strength in Vulnerability

"Tomorrow, I'll wake up and choose myself. I'll choose to start. I'll choose to complete one task, however big or small."

This piece is about the breakthrough, the courage to take the first step forward, however small. The film is a celebration of reclaiming your creative voice, embracing imperfection, and shedding the weight of societal and internal expectations.

This film reflects the journey of creating without restrictions, without the need for perfection, and without feeding the "starving artist" narrative. It’s about finding joy, purpose, and authenticity in every small step forward.

The Creative Team Behind "Unapologetically Me"

Bringing this story to life required a talented and compassionate team who understood the importance of its message. Collaborating with Rsn8 Production , we created a visual and auditory experience that reflects the raw honesty of the creative process.

Special thanks to the creators of the film:

• Nikhil Indulkar
• Joe Alexander

Their artistry and vision were integral in crafting a film that truly captures the nuances of vulnerability and resilience. I’m deeply grateful for their dedication and collaboration.

An Invitation to Reflect and Connect

"One small step and one day at a time, until I find myself creating and being fearless again. I'll be unapologetically me."

I invite you to watch "Unapologetically Me" and reflect on your own creative journey. Perhaps you’ll recognize your own experiences—the hesitation, the questioning, but also the hope and determination to move forward.

This film is a reminder that creativity is not always linear, and the struggles we face are a vital part of our growth. It’s an encouragement to embrace vulnerability and take each step, however small, toward your truest self.

Stay Connected

The FEAR-LESS Collective continues to unfold with more stories, art, and experiences. The full collection launch is on Friday November 29th at 5pm at Warehouse Four.

What's super special about this event is that I created FEAR-LESS magnets and your purchase of one grants you access to the event. Grab your ticket ASAP and I can't wait to see you there!

Here’s to being unapologetically ourselves, fearlessly.

With gratitude,

Marlis Dsouza

Founder, ArtsyByM