On the Periphery of Perception: A Meditative Exploration of Painting Walls

There is something eerily mesmerising about the act of painting walls—a silent meditation that weaves threads of transformation and introspection. As I stand before a bare expanse of white, brush in hand, I am transported into a realm where time slows, thoughts dissolve, and the physicality of the task takes center stage. It is in this realm that I find solace, a momentary respite from the chaos of the outside world. I invite you to accompany me on a reflective journey, delving into the nuances and revelations that arise from the seemingly mundane act of painting walls.

The process begins with careful preparation, an intricate dance of masking tape and drop cloths. Each step, each measured stroke, carries intention and purpose. As I dip the brush into the pale hue, my mind drifts into a state of suspended animation. The familiar scent of paint wafts through the air, mingling with memories of past endeavors. It evokes a certain nostalgia, reminding me of countless rooms transformed, identities reshaped, and emotions laid bare.

There is a certain vulnerability that arises when faced with a blank canvas—a blank wall awaiting the touch of color and imagination. It becomes a mirror, reflecting back the layers of my psyche. I am confronted with my desires for change, for reinvention, and the simultaneous fear of exposing my innermost self. The walls become a metaphorical threshold, a liminal space where the external and internal converge.

As the first brushstroke meets the surface, the energy of creation reverberates through my veins. It is as if I am participating in an ancient ritual—a quiet collaboration between artist and environment. The paint becomes an extension of my being, manifesting the colours of my emotions onto the walls. In each stroke, I release fragments of my past, layers of experiences, and embrace the freedom to recreate my surroundings.

The act of painting walls becomes an act of reclaiming space—of establishing ownership and asserting my presence. With each coat, the room undergoes a metamorphosis, shedding its previous identity and embracing a new narrative. The walls bear witness to this transformation, silently holding the stories and emotions imprinted upon them. They become a testament to the impermanence of our lives, a reminder that everything is transient, and beauty can be found in the transient nature of existence.

Amidst the repetitive motion of brush against wall, my mind wanders, traversing the corridors of memory and contemplation. I find myself questioning the constructs that define us—the invisible boundaries and societal expectations that shape our perceptions. Just as the walls confine and separate, they also have the power to liberate and unify. They carry the weight of history, collective memories, and the echoes of those who have walked before us.

In the solitude of this act, I discover a sense of agency—a reclaiming of control over my environment and, by extension, my own narrative. The walls become a canvas upon which I can project my hopes, dreams, and aspirations. They serve as a reminder that, despite the chaotic world beyond, there exists a space where I can shape my reality, one brushstroke at a time.

And so, as the final stroke completes the symphony of colours, I step back and witness the fruits of my labor. The walls now breathe with new life, infused with my intentions and a profound sense of accomplishment. In this moment, I realise that painting walls is not merely a superficial act of decoration; it is a profound exercise in self-discovery and expression.

Joan Didion once wrote, "We tell ourselves stories in order to live." And as I stand amidst the freshly painted walls, I am reminded that we also paint our walls in order to live. It is an act of self-definition, a tangible manifestation of our desires, fears, and dreams. It is a testament to our resilience, our innate need to create and leave our mark upon the world.

In the periphery of perception, in the stillness between brush strokes, we find ourselves. We are the artists of our own existence, and through the act of painting walls, we reveal the intricate tapestry of our souls—one layer, one colour at a time.

The Secrets of Past Life Regression: Unlocking the Mysteries Within

Have you ever felt a strong sense of familiarity with a place or person you've never encountered before? Or perhaps you've experienced unexplained fears or talents that seem to have no basis in your current life. If so, you may find the concept of past life regression intriguing. It's a fascinating technique that delves into the depths of our subconscious, uncovering hidden memories and unlocking the mysteries of our past lives.

So, what exactly is past life regression? It's a therapeutic method that aims to access and explore the memories and experiences from previous lifetimes that may still be influencing our present lives. Through deep relaxation and focused intention, one can tap into these past life memories, gaining insights and understanding that can bring healing, self-awareness, and personal growth.

Now, I know what you might be thinking: Is past life regression real? While the scientific community may have varying opinions, it's important to approach this technique with an open mind and a willingness to explore the realms of possibility. Whether you believe in literal past lives or consider them as metaphors and symbolic representations, past life regression can offer valuable insights into the patterns, behaviors, and emotions that shape our current existence.

One of the most intriguing aspects of past life regression is the idea of unfinished business. It suggests that unresolved experiences from past lives can carry over into our present life, impacting our relationships, fears, and even our physical health. By accessing these past life memories, we have the opportunity to identify and release these energetic imprints, allowing us to move forward with greater clarity, freedom, and personal empowerment.

So, how does one embark on a past life regression journey? It's essential to work with a trained and experienced regression therapist who can guide you through the process with compassion and expertise. They will create a safe and supportive environment, helping you relax deeply and access the memories stored within your subconscious mind.

During a regression session, you may experience vivid images, emotions, and sensations that transport you to another time and place. You might find yourself speaking in different languages, assuming different roles, or reliving significant events. It's important to remember that each person's experience is unique, and there is no right or wrong way to explore your past lives.

The insights gained from past life regression can be incredibly transformative. They can provide a deeper understanding of your relationships, life purpose, and personal challenges. They can also help you tap into your latent talents, passions, and abilities, as you uncover the wisdom and strengths acquired through previous incarnations.

However, it's crucial to approach past life regression with discernment and self-care. Integration and reflection are key aspects of the process. Take time to process and make sense of the experiences and emotions that arise. Journaling, meditation, and seeking support from trusted friends or professionals can be invaluable as you navigate the revelations and emotions that may emerge.

Ultimately, the secrets of past life regression lie within you. They offer a window into the vast tapestry of your soul's journey, connecting you to the collective wisdom of humanity throughout time. Whether you view it as a metaphorical exploration or a literal journey into past lives, past life regression can be a powerful tool for self-discovery, healing, and personal growth.

So, if you feel a deep curiosity or a resonance with the idea of past life regression, I encourage you to explore it further. Embrace the mysteries within and embark on a journey of self-exploration that can open doors to a deeper understanding of yourself and the interconnectedness of all existence. Remember, the past holds secrets waiting to be unveiled, and through regression, you have the opportunity to discover and embrace them.

Why I use multiple types of therapy

 Growing up, I always felt like there was something "off" about me. I struggled to make friends, had trouble understanding social cues, and often found myself feeling overwhelmed and anxious in situations that others seemed to handle with ease. It wasn't until my teens that I was finally diagnosed with depression, anxiety, and autism spectrum disorder.

At first, I was hesitant to seek help. I thought that I should be able to handle my issues on my own, and that therapy was something only "crazy" people did. But eventually, I realized that I couldn't keep going on like this. I was barely able to function on a daily basis, and I knew that I needed to do something to take care of myself.

I started off with traditional talk therapy, which helped me to unpack some of the trauma and negative thought patterns that had been holding me back. But as helpful as it was, I found that I needed more. That's when I began exploring other types of therapy and counseling.

I tried cognitive-behavioral therapy, which helped me to identify and challenge the negative thoughts and beliefs that were contributing to my depression and anxiety. I also tried art therapy, which allowed me to express myself in ways that I had never been able to before. Through creating art, I was able to tap into emotions that I didn't even know were there, and to work through them in a healthy and constructive way. 

Throughout my journey with therapy and counselling, I also found solace in creating music. Whether it was writing lyrics or picking up an instrument, music allowed me to express emotions that I struggled to put into words. It became a form of therapy in itself, and I found it helpful to incorporate it into my sessions with my therapists. Music gave me a way to communicate what I was feeling without the pressure of articulating it perfectly, and it allowed me to feel a sense of control over my emotions. I found that incorporating music into my therapy helped me to better understand myself and my experiences, and it gave me an outlet to continue to heal even outside of my sessions.

Another form of therapy I found beneficial was group therapy, which gave me the opportunity to connect with other people who were going through similar struggles. It was a relief to know that I wasn't alone in my experiences, and to be able to share my thoughts and feelings with others who understood what I was going through.

All of these forms of therapy, in addition to medication and lifestyle changes, have helped me to manage my depression, anxiety, and autism. Of course, I still have bad days - but they're becoming fewer and farther between. I'm grateful for the support and guidance that therapy has provided me with, and I know that I wouldn't be where I am today without it.

If you're struggling with mental health issues, I encourage you to reach out for help. It can be scary to take that first step, but it's worth it. There are so many different types of therapy and counseling out there, and it's important to find what works best for you. Don't be afraid to try something new - you never know what might make a difference.

Making a logo for a local Community Cafe

I've been asked to make a logo for a local community café. This is what I've got so far. Quite a lot of work to do but I thought someone might like to see it.

Experimenting with Mixed Media Art

 Hey there, friends! Lately, I've been experimenting with mixed media art during my breaks from songwriting, and let me tell you, it's been an exciting and refreshing change of pace.

As a musician, I'm no stranger to the creative process, but I've found that mixing things up and trying something new can really help keep the juices flowing. It's like hitting the reset button on my brain, you know?

I started out by just messing around with some paper, paint, and whatever else I had lying around, but before I knew it, I was hooked. There's just something about the freedom of expression that comes with mixed media art that's incredibly appealing to me.

One of the things I love about mixed media is that there are no real rules. You can combine colours, textures, and materials in any way that speaks to you. It's a wonderful way to let go of perfectionism and just let the creativity flow.

Recently, I've been working on a piece that incorporates paper, paint, and a few old magazine clippings. It's been a fun challenge figuring out how to bring all these different elements together into a cohesive whole. But even if the end result isn't perfect, I know that the process of creating it has been valuable in and of itself.

In fact, I'm already thinking about how I can incorporate some of the techniques and ideas I've learned from mixed media art into my songwriting. Who knows what kind of creative mashups I'll come up with next?

Anyway, I just wanted to share a bit about my latest artistic endeavor. And who knows, maybe some of you will be inspired to try out mixed media art for yourselves! After all, you never know what kind of creative magic might happen when you mix things up a bit.

Last Day of FAWM

 As February draws to a close, I find myself looking back on the past month with a mix of exhaustion and pride. For those who don't know, February is also known as FAWM, or February Album Writing Month. The goal is to write 14 songs in 28 days, and I'm happy to say that I made it, just barely.

It was a wild ride, to say the least. There were days when I had no inspiration, and others when I was bursting with ideas. I wrote about love, loss, hope, and everything in between. Some of the songs flowed easily, while others felt like pulling teeth. But through it all, I kept going, determined to reach the end.

Now that FAWM is over, I'm looking forward to the next step: recording an album. I've decided to call it "672 Hours," after the number of hours in February. It's a fitting title, considering how much time and effort went into creating these songs.

But as proud as I am of my accomplishment, I can't help but reflect on the bigger picture. As someone on the autism spectrum, I know all too well the challenges that come with pursuing creative endeavors. Sensory issues, executive dysfunction, and difficulty with social interaction can all make it harder to stay focused and motivated.

But despite these obstacles, I refused to give up. I found ways to work around my difficulties, whether it was taking breaks when I needed them, using noise-cancelling headphones to block out distractions, or asking friends for feedback and support.

And in the end, it was all worth it. The feeling of accomplishment I get from completing a project like this is indescribable. It reminds me that, despite the challenges, I'm capable of achieving great things.

So here's to all the other FAWMers out there who made it to the end, and to anyone else who's pursuing a creative passion. Keep going, even when it feels like you can't. The end result is always worth it.

Autistic Stimming essay

 Stimming is something that's very personal to me as someone with autism. It's the little movements that I make that help me feel calm and focused. Things like rocking back and forth, tapping my fingers, or making odd little noises. These little motions can make such a big difference in how I feel.

For a long time, I didn't know what stimming was or that it was a common trait among autistic people. I just thought that I was weird or that something was wrong with me. So, I tried to suppress my stimming behavior, thinking it would make me more "normal". But the truth is, suppressing my stimming was really harmful to my mental health. It was like trying to hold back a sneeze, and it only made me feel more anxious and overwhelmed.

It wasn't until I learned more about autism and stimming that I realized how important it is to accept this behavior. Stimming is a natural part of who I am, and it's something that helps me regulate my emotions and sensory input. It's a coping mechanism that helps me feel safe and in control.

It's not always easy, though. Sometimes people can be judgemental or misunderstand my stimming behavior. They might think I'm being weird or rude, when really I'm just trying to stay calm and focused. That's why it's so important to educate others about stimming and autism. When people understand why I stim, they're usually more accepting and supportive.

It's been a long journey, but I'm learning to accept and even appreciate my stimming behavior. It's a reminder that I'm different, but that's okay. In fact, it's something to celebrate. Stimming is a part of my identity as an autistic person, and it's just one of the many things that makes me who I am.

Dad Jokes with Thomas Jefferson - made with PrimeVoice AI

 

https://youtube.com/shorts/whrztwOsrGc?feature=share

The Struggles of Being an Independent Musician/Artist

 Being an independent artist sounds amazing on paper, but in reality, it can be a real struggle. Not only do you have to figure out how to make a living from your art, but you also have to build a fanbase. And let me tell you, that's not always easy.

Making a steady income is hard enough, but trying to build a fanbase on top of that? It can feel like a never-ending battle. It can be tough to get your music out there and get people to listen, especially when there's so much competition.

I know what it's like to feel like no one is paying attention to your art. It can be discouraging and make you question whether you're even doing anything right. But here's the thing, building a fanbase takes time and effort. And even the most successful artists have gone through their own struggles.

So, what can you do? Well, for starters, it helps to have a supportive community of fellow artists and fans. Collaborating with other artists and reaching out to your fans can help you get your music heard and grow your following. And even if you're feeling like you're not making any progress, remember that success is a marathon, not a sprint.

Being an independent artist is a journey, and building a fanbase can be one of the biggest challenges. But with persistence, effort, and a little bit of luck, it is possible to overcome these struggles and find success as an independent artist.

Half way through FAWM

 Hello again. I'm midway through the FAWM songwriting challenge, and I have to say, it's been a wild ride. If you're not familiar with FAWM, it's a challenge to write 14 songs in 28 days. And let me tell you, it's not for the faint of heart!

At first, I was feeling pretty intimidated. I mean, coming up with 14 songs in 28 days? That's a lot! And to make matters worse, I was struggling to be creative. But as I started writing, something magical happened. The words just started flowing, and before I knew it, I had written a few songs.

One of the best parts of the FAWM challenge is that it encourages you to experiment and be creative. I've tried new songwriting techniques, written songs in different genres, and even pushed my lyrical boundaries. It's been amazing to see what I can come up with when I let go and just let the creativity flow.

Now, I'm halfway through the challenge and I've written seven songs so far. The next seven are going to be just as challenging, but I'm ready for it. Even though it's been tough at times, I'm so grateful for this experience. It's taught me to embrace the unknown and to always keep pushing myself, even when I'm feeling stuck.

The FAWM songwriting challenge has been an amazing experience so far. It's not easy, but it's worth it. And who knows, maybe by the end of the challenge, I'll have written some of my best songs yet!

Autistic Burnout - what it is and how it feels

 Autistic burnout is a real struggle and something that affects me frustratingly often. It's hard to describe how it feels, but it's like a constant, overwhelming exhaustion that just doesn't seem to go away. I often feel physically and mentally drained, and even the simplest tasks can become impossible to complete.

One of the worst parts about experiencing autistic burnout is the embarrassment that comes along with it. I know that people don't understand what I'm going through and often see me as lazy or unmotivated. It's a frustrating feeling because I want so badly to be able to just snap out of it, but it's not that simple.

Autistic burnout is a result of sensory overload and feeling constantly overwhelmed. It's like my brain just can't keep up with the constant stimulation and it crashes. I try my best to avoid situations that trigger it, but sometimes it just sneaks up on me.

It can be really tough, but I've learned to accept that this is just a part of who I am and that it's okay to need a break. I try to make sure I take the time to recharge, whether it's through self-care or just taking a nap.

If you're experiencing autistic burnout, know that you're not alone. It's important to take care of yourself and not be too hard on yourself. Try to find things that help you relax and give you a break from the constant stimulation. And remember, it's okay to need a break. You're not weak for having this experience, you're just human.

Barnaby J. Tremayne.

I Love Coffee - video version

 

https://youtu.be/fo74aJ83Qqs

I experimented with #primevoice AI audio and FakeYou lip sync generator and ended up with an anime character telling us that they love coffee.

A Quick Guide to Surviving FAWM

 Getting started with FAWM: A Guide to the February Album Writing Month Challenge

February Album Writing Month, or FAWM, is an online community of songwriters and musicians who challenge themselves to write and record 14 new songs in the 28 days of February. Whether you're a seasoned songwriter or just starting out, FAWM is a great opportunity to stretch your creative muscles, collaborate with other musicians, and build your portfolio.

Here are some tips to help you get started with FAWM:

1. Set your goals.

Before you begin, it's important to know what you want to accomplish with FAWM. Do you want to write a certain number of songs? Do you want to experiment with a new genre? Do you want to improve your recording skills? Whatever your goals are, make sure they are specific, measurable, and achievable.

2. Start early.

FAWM can be a busy time, so it's a good idea to start planning and preparing as early as possible. Make a list of songs you want to write, gather your musical instruments and recording gear, and set up a workspace that is conducive to creativity.

3. Collaborate.

FAWM is a great opportunity to collaborate with other musicians, both online and in person. You can join the FAWM forum to find collaborators, share your songs, and receive feedback. You can also attend FAWM events and participate in songwriting challenges to get inspired and meet other musicians.

4. Be flexible.

Songwriting can be unpredictable, and it's important to be flexible and open to change. Don't be afraid to try new things, even if they're outside of your comfort zone. And if a song isn't working out, don't be afraid to move on and try something else.

5. Keep it simple.

Songwriting is about creativity, not technical proficiency. Don't get bogged down by complicated chord progressions or intricate arrangements. Instead, focus on writing a simple melody and lyrics that tell a story. You can always add more instrumentation later.

6. Stay organized.

With 14 songs to write in 28 days, it's important to stay organized. Keep a notebook or digital document with your lyrics and ideas. And when you're ready to record, make sure to label your files and backups.

7. Celebrate your achievements.

Writing and recording 14 songs in 28 days is no small feat. Take the time to celebrate your achievements and share your songs with others. You can upload your songs to the FAWM website, share them on social media, or perform them at a local open mic.

In conclusion, FAWM is a unique and rewarding challenge for songwriters and musicians of all skill levels. Whether you're looking to improve your songwriting, collaborate with others, or build your portfolio, FAWM is a great opportunity to stretch your creative muscles and have fun. So get started early, set your goals, and have fun!

Living with Imposter Syndrome

 Living with imposter syndrome is like constantly feeling like a fraud in your own skin. It's a constant nagging voice that tells you that you're not good enough, that you don't belong and that you will be exposed as a fraud. 

I remember the first time I shared my work online, I felt like I didn't belong and that my art wasn't good enough. But that feeling never really went away. It's been with me through every new project, every performance, and every time someone compliments my work. 

It's not just my art, it's everything. I doubt my abilities in every aspect of my life. It's been hard, it's affected my relationships, my work, everything. I've been afraid to share my work, to take on new projects, because I was convinced I would fail. 

But you know what? I've come to realize that I'm not alone in feeling this way. A lot of people struggle with imposter syndrome. It's not something that can be cured, but it can be managed. I'm learning to be kinder to myself. I remind myself that mistakes are a part of the creative process, and that I'm not alone in feeling this way. 

I've also learned to surround myself with people who support me and believe in me. And I try to focus on my accomplishments, rather than my shortcomings. I remind myself of the times when my art has been positively received, and the times when I've overcome obstacles. It's not easy, but it's worth it.

So, if you're reading this and you feel like a fraud, just know that you're not alone. We all feel like that sometimes. But we can learn to manage it, and that's what really matters.

Why I'm a musician

 Being a musician is more than just a job or hobby for me, it's a need. It's something I just have to do, like breathing. It's how I express myself and make sense of the world.

As someone who's neurodivergent and deals with mental illness, making music is especially important. It's a way for me to take all the feelings and thoughts swirling around in my head and turn them into something real and beautiful. Playing an instrument or singing is like therapy for me, helping me cope with stress and anxiety.

But it's not just about me. Music is a powerful way to connect with others. It's a universal language that can break down barriers of race and culture. When I play a song and people connect with it, it's like we're speaking the same language. It creates this emotional bond between us and it's amazing.

Being a musician also gives me a sense of purpose and fulfillment. I get to share my talents with the world and make a difference in people's lives. Seeing someone's face light up when they hear a song that speaks to them, or watching a crowd sing along to one of my songs, it's indescribable.

Now, I'm not going to lie, it's not always easy. There's rejection and failure, but the need to make music is too strong to ignore. It's a part of me, and I can't be truly happy or fulfilled without it. Plus, making music helps me navigate the challenges of my neurodivergence and mental illness.

All in all, being a musician is more than just a job or hobby for me, it's a need. It's how I express myself, cope with life and connect with others. It gives me purpose and fulfillment and helps me navigate the challenges of my neurodivergence and mental illness.

I'm a comedian... No, seriously

 Being a stand-up comedian is not just about telling jokes on stage, it's about putting yourself out there, being vulnerable, and making people laugh. It's a unique combination of art, entertainment, and bravery. But it's also one of the most challenging and rewarding careers you can have.

For me, it all started with my first job. I was working as a server and always cracking jokes and making my co-workers laugh. One day, a friend suggested I try stand-up comedy, and I thought it would be a fun challenge. I started performing at open mic nights and quickly fell in love with the rush of being on stage. There's nothing like making a room full of strangers laugh.

But stand-up comedy is not just about getting laughs, it's also about the craft. Writing a good joke is hard work and so is writing a good set. And making it all come together on stage is even harder. It's a constant process of writing, rewriting, and refining. And even when you have a great set, you never know how it's going to go over with a live audience. That's the beauty and the fear of stand-up comedy.

It's also a career that requires a thick skin. Not every joke will land, and not every audience will be receptive. You have to be able to handle rejection and criticism. It can also be a lonely job, traveling from city to city, performing for strangers night after night. But when it all comes together, and you have a room full of people laughing and cheering, it's all worth it.

Being a stand-up comedian also taught me a lot about myself, especially when it comes to my mental health and anxiety. Being on stage and having to be funny all the time can be incredibly draining and can take a toll on your mental health. It's important to take care of yourself and be aware of the potential effects on your mental health. For me, I've learned to set boundaries for myself and take time for self-care.

In conclusion, being a stand-up comedian is not for everyone. It's a challenging and demanding career, but it's also one of the most rewarding. It's about putting yourself out there, making people laugh and learning a lot about yourself in the process. But it's also important to remember to take care of yourself and be aware of the potential effects on your mental health.

Why I use humour as a defence mechanism

 Humour has always been my go-to defence mechanism, a way to deal with tough situations and emotions. It's like a superpower that I've always had, the ability to make people laugh and lighten the mood, even in the darkest of times. 

But it wasn't until recently that I really started to understand how powerful it can be as a coping mechanism, especially when it comes to anxiety. Growing up, I struggled with anxiety and found it difficult to make friends and fit in. Humour was a way for me to connect with others and to express myself. It was a way to break the ice and to start a conversation. 

As I got older, my anxiety didn't go away, it just manifested itself in different ways. But through it all, humour was always a constant for me. It was a way to cope with the anxiety and to make sense of the world around me. 

Recently, I've been working with a therapist who specializes in anxiety and I've been learning about different coping mechanisms. But I've also come to realize that humour will always be a part of who I am and it will always be a valuable tool for me to cope with anxiety. 

Using humor as a defense mechanism is not just about telling jokes and making people laugh, but it's about using it as a tool to cope with anxiety and to make sense of life.

FAWM 2023

 Hey friends!

I just wanted to drop in and share some exciting news with you all - I'm taking on the February Album Writing Month (FAWM) challenge! For those of you who haven't heard of it, it's a songwriting challenge where participants aim to write 14 songs in the 28 days of February. I've always been up for a challenge and I think this is going to be a great opportunity to push myself as a songwriter and see what I'm capable of.

As I gear up for this adventure, I wanted to share some tips that have helped me in the past when getting ready for a songwriting challenge.

First things first, it's all about setting realistic goals for yourself. 14 songs in 28 days is no small feat, so don't put too much pressure on yourself. Instead, focus on the process of writing and creating and enjoy the ride.

Another tip that's helped me is to start gathering inspiration early. This could be watching a movie, listening to a new album, or even taking a walk in nature. The more inspiration you have, the easier it'll be to come up with new ideas and concepts for your songs.

I also like to have a solid writing routine in place. This could mean setting aside a specific time each day to work on songwriting, or having a dedicated writing space. Whatever works best for you, make sure you stick to it as much as possible.

And don't forget about the tools! Having the right tools is key to streamlining the songwriting process. This could mean having a notebook for lyrics, a recording app for demos or a good DAW for composing.

But the most important thing for me is to remember to be open to experimentation and trying new things. Songwriting can be a very personal process, and it's easy to get bogged down by self-doubt or fear of failure. Remember, not every song you write will be a masterpiece, and that's okay. The goal is to have fun and enjoy the process of creating.

So there you have it, I'm all set and ready to take on this challenge. I'm excited to see what I can come up with in the next 28 days and can't wait to share my progress with you all. If you're also participating in FAWM or any other songwriting challenges, I wish you all the best of luck and please feel free to share your own tips and tricks.

Happy songwriting, friends!

Artistic Burnout - some thoughts and advice

 Artistic burnout is something that a lot of us creative types go through. It's when you're just feeling drained, unmotivated and uninspired. It can happen due to a lot of pressure or stress, and it can make it hard to keep creating. And for some of us, we may struggle with repeated episodes of burnout. It can be frustrating and disheartening but the good news is, it's totally possible to bounce back and get back to making art you're proud of.

First things first, it's important to admit to yourself that you're experiencing burnout. It's easy to feel guilty or like a failure when you're not feeling creative, but burnout is a natural response to a lot of stress. Recognizing it is the first step in getting past it.

One of the best ways to recover from burnout is to practice some self-care. It's important to take care of your body and mind if you want to be able to create. This can mean different things to different people, it could be going for a run, meditating, journaling or just taking a walk in nature. Find something that works for you and make it a regular part of your routine.

Another tip is to take a break from creating. It can be hard to step away from something you're passionate about, but sometimes a break is exactly what you need. A vacation, a sabbatical or even just a few days off can give you the time and space you need to recharge.

It's also important to take a look at your goals and values. A lot of the time, burnout can happen when we feel like our art isn't aligning with what we truly want to achieve. Reflecting on what's important to you and what you want to get out of creating can help you refocus and regain motivation.

Lastly, don't be afraid to reach out for support. Talk to friends and family, seek out therapy or counseling, or join an art support group. Having people to talk to and lean on can make a huge difference in getting through a tough time. It's also important to keep in mind that it's not uncommon to experience repeated episodes of burnout, and it's important to have a plan in place and to be proactive in preventing it.

In summary, artistic burnout is common but it's not the end of the road. By acknowledging it, practicing self-care, taking a break, reflecting on your goals, and reaching out for support, you can come out the other side and get back to making art you're passionate about. Remember, recovery takes time and it's important to be kind to yourself throughout the process. Being prepared for repeated episodes of burnout and having a plan in place can help you to better manage it.

Being an independent musician

 Being an independent musician is like being a small business owner, you have total control over your art and how you want to present it, but it also means you have to wear a lot of hats and figure out ways to promote and make a living off your music on your own.

One of the best things about going independent is the creative freedom you get. You get to pick and choose who you want to work with, and you don't have to answer to anyone when it comes to your music. You can experiment and explore new sounds without any pressure from anyone else. This can lead to a more authentic and true-to-you sound that your fans will appreciate.

Another plus side of being an independent musician is the connection you get to make with your fans. When you're not tied to a big record label, you get to interact with your fans directly and build a community around your music. This can lead to a more dedicated and engaged fan base that will stick with you for the long haul.

But, being independent can also be tough. Without the backing of a label or manager, you have to hustle and grind to get your music out there and get people to notice you. It can be a lot of work and takes a lot of time, effort and sometimes money to make it happen. Plus, without the support of a label, it can be hard to make a living from your music alone, and you may need to have a day job to support yourself.

To make it work, you have to be strategic about how you approach things. Building a strong online presence is crucial, you want to be active on social media and make sure you're regularly putting out content that will connect with your fans. Networking with other independent musicians and industry professionals can also be helpful, you can share resources and support each other. And, you have to be open to change and willing to adapt as the music industry evolves.

Being an independent musician is not for everyone, but for those who are willing to put in the work, it can be a very rewarding and fulfilling experience. You get to be in charge of your own creative destiny, and you get to build a community of fans who truly appreciate your art.