Resistance is the refusal to accept or comply with something; the attempt to prevent something by action or argument. An opposition.

Within the first couple of days of my two-month break, I immediately felt myself resisting wanting to make any art, which felt funny to me. I felt this creative energy inside me, I intentionally made the space for it, then nothing. Like I suddenly was disinterested. I noticed how I immediately wanted to fill my attention with busy work. I thought about updating the SEO on my website (drag) and refreshing my welcome email (boring). Thankfully, I have an incredible community to lean on, and they graciously told me to let it go. And make art. So that’s what I did—and I got to understand resistance a little bit better.

viewfinder is a listener-supported podcast. To receive new episodes and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

Reflections

* Resistance can tell me a lot about who I am.

* Resistance is a common response to change.

* Resistance will always find a good excuse. It’s important to know when that excuse is unreliable.

* Resistance can show up in many different ways.

Resources

* Project Self, On Feeling Resistance

* Episode 14, Interlude

Connect

If we haven’t had the pleasure of meeting - I’m Lauren Sauder, an artist, writer, and mentor. If you enjoyed this episode, please consider writing a review. Here are a few more ways you can connect with me:

* Download your viewfinder—Print it, cut it, and carry it with you.

* Download the artist mixtape—a mix of books, playlists, and residencies to provide inspiration and company in the studio.

* Receive letters from me—bi-weekly letters from me about what I’m working through in my creative practice and life.

* Enlist me as your mentor—if you are interested in unlimited support and guidance to grow your creative practice.

* Get in touch with me directly—send an email to [email protected].

Share

Get full access to Lauren Sauder at laurensauder.substack.com/subscribe