There's new research that shows the pain centers of the brain light up from humiliation in the same way they would from a physical injury. So much so, that a dose of Advil or Tylenol has been proven to reduce the pain of the emotional injury.

Mind. Blown.

As I'm teaching myself to play the guitar, I'm getting a front row seat to the experience of being bad at something. And though I know -- I know! -- that we can only get good at things by first being bad at them, I think we skip over the fact that the felt experience of sucking at something feels physically painful.

So if sitting down to write your novel, or start a new painting, or picking up a guitar, feels like sticking your hand in fire -- it's no wonder we're not all rushing to do it.



If you're struggling with making time or space for your creative practice, I hear you. I'd love to connect. Come find me on Instagram @SamGarlandNYC.



(photo credit: Janae Jones Photography)  

Come check out the Hot Mess series on TikTok, and watch as I lose my mind - and find it again - writing, producing, and acting in a show!

#CreatingIsHealing🦋