Craig Benzine, also known as WheezyWaiter, has been producing videos for more than 17 years. Despite his experience, he still faces moments of self-doubt and motivational hurdles. If you’re finding it hard to kickstart, keep going, or wrap up a project, these seven brutal truths can give you the push you need. They may sting a bit, but they’re meant to light a fire under you.
1. You’ll Never Be Prepared
Craig can’t think of any project where he felt completely ready. This feeling is shared by creators and professionals alike. Studies have shown that waiting for the perfect moment is a fantasy. Life is unpredictable, and ideal circumstances rarely come together perfectly. Craig took on a challenge of walking 30,000 steps when he didn’t feel fully equipped for it. Despite missing three days due to illness, he adjusted his schedule and made up for lost time on other days. The key takeaway? Dive in and adjust as you go along. Waiting for readiness often leads to procrastination.
2. Your Worries Are Overblown
The fear of failure often brings up improbable scenarios in our minds. Psychologists refer to this as “catastrophizing,” where individuals envision the worst-case outcomes instead of focusing on more realistic possibilities. When it comes to selecting a college, don’t fret too much. Remember, you can always switch if needed. Things usually aren’t as bad as they seem in the worst-case scenario. This mindset exercise can help you realize that your worries are often blown out of proportion and can be managed effectively.
3. Take Charge of Your Opportunities
In a lesson from Mark Duplass’s talk at SXSW, Craig discovered that waiting for someone to hand you success is pointless. With platforms like YouTube making content creation more accessible but more competitive, it’s important to take charge of your opportunities instead of waiting for a lucky break. Craig’s band, Driftless Pony Club, waited in vain for a record deal for years, reflecting a trend where success often stems from self-reliance and perseverance.
4. Embrace Imperfections
Striving for perfection can be paralyzing. Psychologist Brené Brown’s research suggests that perfectionism is often fueled by a fear of criticism. Craig recommends embracing your imperfections and acknowledging that everyone, even the most accomplished individuals, experiences setbacks. Failure is part of the journey. Prioritizing completion over perfection with the idea that “done’s better than perfect” underscores the importance of progress over flawlessness.
5. Adopt a Carefree Attitude
Adopting a carefree “bleep it” attitude can bring about a sense of liberation. This mindset diminishes the perceived significance of your task, making it simpler to take risks. Craig employs this strategy to overcome doubts about producing content. When a task seems crucial, hesitancy creeps in. Saying “screw it” can shatter that barrier, fostering a mindset where taking action is prioritized over the fear of failure.
6. Nothing Is Truly Original
Craig stresses that absolute originality is a misconception. This notion is echoed by many in the creative realm, including Austin Kleon in his work “Steal Like an Artist.” Most ideas are variations of existing ones. Creativity involves reinterpreting and blending. Instead of striving for originality, focus on presenting ideas uniquely. Your voice and viewpoint give your work its individuality. Don’t allow the pursuit of originality to paralyze you. Create, refine, and innovate within the existing landscape.
7. Discover Your Purpose
Understanding why you’re engaging in something can be highly motivating. Simon Sinek, in his publication “Start With Why,” argues that grasping your purpose fuels motivation and direction. Craig encourages creators to contemplate what they desire their audience to gain from their work. Are you educating, entertaining, or stimulating thoughts? Grasping your purpose offers guidance and drive. It’s not about being completely original or flawless; it’s more about the impact and the message you aim to get across.
In Summary
These seven truths highlight taking action over seeking perfection, relying on oneself instead of waiting around, and focusing on purpose rather than being held back by fear. Craig’s story illustrates that achievement comes from pushing past uncertainties, embracing imperfections, and consistently innovating. Whether you’re a creator or just beginning your journey, remember that it involves taking risks and facing setbacks. These challenges ultimately lead to personal growth and accomplishment. By embracing these principles, individuals can break free from self-doubt and procrastination, moving forward toward a rewarding creative path.