11 Commandments

Awhile back, maybe a year ago, my dad sent me an article on Henry Miller's 11 Commandments of Writing & Daily Creative Routine. It's taken me that long to come up with my own 11 Commandments about working and being creative in general. You'll see some similarities between Henry Miller's commandments and my own.

You should come up with your own, just for giggles. It's interesting to boil it down to what really matters, and that often takes time to realize. Time and pressure. Like diamonds. So here are my Eleven Diamonds Commandments of Creating and General Creativity.

1. Someone liking or not liking your work is less important than you liking or not liking your work. (It sounds obvious but just try it some time)
2. Tea is not a substitute for a meal. A fed brain thinks more clearly.
3. Be aware that inspiration can be anywhere. Let me repeat that: anywhere.
4. The only opinion that should be considered is an honest opinion (and even those must be taken with a grain of salt).
5. Never befriend a liar.
6. Taking a break is not admitting defeat.
7. Try to not look at another artist’s work while working.
8. Not everything you draw will be gold or even good. But don’t ignore the potential of a great idea just because you’ve drawn it poorly the first time.
9. Do not start more projects than you can finish. It is unfair to the projects.
10. Do not take on a project just because you need the money. Get a job if you need money. Your creativity is sacred and should not be squandered on passionless pieces.
11. Being an outsider is the best way to observe other people’s lives without becoming caught up in the nasty bits. Also, a truly understanding friend is irreplaceable (and rare).
12. You’re allowed to change.