There is a famous concept called the Dunning–Kruger effect, identified by psychologists David Dunning and Justin Kruger: “The more you know, the less you know.” This concept highlights this paradox: as we learn more about our craft, we learn that there is so much more to learn. We sometimes start to feel less competent as we discover how much there is to know, and how many directions we can go. I am a musician, and playing the violin unfolds in layers of learning how much more I have to learn. I can truly see that I could play this instrument for lifetimes upon lifetimes and still have more to learn. When we consider our creative pursuits and growth in music, art, business, house design, etc, this concept of ‘always having more to learn’ can feel overwhelming. This can be a particular trigger when we deal with performance anxiety, and it’s helpful to learn how to work with these feelings as they come up.
Anxiety and Perfectionism in our Relationship with Art
Anxiety and perfectionism can take control and keep us up until 2AM trying to get that new painting technique down, or trying to word that presentation for work in the most innovative way. Our inner perfectionist tells us “try a little harder,” “You could do better,” “Other people are already doing it this way, we have to catch up!” I have found that this perfectionist is trying to protect us and create resource within us, but often in an unhelpful and critical way. The essence of the perfectionist is good; she just needs some reteaching. Often the perfectionist arises because of the very close relationship with anxiety. Anxiety comes up in the body/mind/spirit, and signals our inner perfectionist that something is unsafe and something must be done.
Soothing the Anxious Inner Perfectionist
The perfectionist reacts by telling us to learn 10 more songs, and then we will be a competent musician. Really, what the perfectionist/anxiety might need is some down regulating activities that have nothing to do with our creative pursuits. Yoga, watching a funny TV show or a phone call with our bestie are some distracting and nourishing suggestions. The common thread of these activities is “safety.” Perfectionistic anxiety related to our art can get to an incredibly up-regulated place, which makes us feel inherently unsafe. When we feel safe in our nervous system, neither too up-regulated or down-regulated, we operate from a balanced place. These concepts can be helpful to work with in therapy, so visit my anxiety therapy page to find out more about working with me.
There is No Way We Can Know Everything
As we have discussed, the way of the artist is vast and endlessly expansive, which creates a lifelong relationship with our chosen art. Take it easy, and know that it is impossible to know every technique, every hack, every way of creating in your particular modality. This is where our body sensations and intuition come in to guide us on where to focus next. Follow your inspiration!! Sometimes when I am overwhelmed with the amount of fiddle techniques I could learn, or vocal stylings I could practice, I listen to music and notice what song or style I am most inspired by. Perhaps there are pleasant butterflies in my stomach or a deep emotion in my heart that tell me to learn that song. I try to follow that. When we are led by the sparks of inspiration, our lives will be more enjoyable, so let that guide you to your next creative endeavor.
The Energy of Play and Creativity
This isn’t always possible when we have to create a particular presentation for work or learn certain songs for a wedding. In this case, finding that spark of inspiration looks like incorporating play into our creativity. Notice if you are excited by a font as you make your powerpoint, or play the songs you are learning on a speaker and dance around the kitchen with your kids. Creative freedom is partnered with play, and that often encourages us to keep moving forward when our feet feel heavy. Remember: you bring something to the world that no one else brings. Your voice is important and unique. Even if you have so much more to learn about your craft, the world needs to see/hear/feel your creations. So, “the more you know, the less you know,” and, your inner knowing is essential and impossible to replicate.