Inspiration is a beautiful gift. Often found in unexpected places, the spark of an idea or creative pursuit is always welcomed, especially after dry spells of low motivation. Of course, this happens in various creative aspirations. For me, this includes attempts to write as well as when selecting upcoming knitting projects.
Without a vision, I become stalled, with blank pages and empty needles. But even when inspiration is abundant, other constraints to creativity can appear, ready to derail progress.
Of these obstacles, perhaps there is none greater than self-doubt. And this, my friends, is where I find myself today.
After my LYS tour, I was fully inspired. By the colorful walls of each shop. By the texture of each yarn. By the pattern of each sample project. My mind (and shopping basket) was filled with endless possibilities.
One of those inspirations, the Poet Scarf by Sari Nordlund, was top of mind this week, and I decided to purchase the pattern from the designer’s Ravelry. As a longtime knitter, I have tried many techniques, including lace knitting, so I was originally unfazed by the design of the scarf.
However, after printing the multiple charts needed to bring this design to life, my anxiety grew. I’m intimidated by the number of charts and symbols, even though I am familiar with most of the stitches used. In truth, my fear is with staying on track, rather than the knitting.
So, I’ve been stalling. This time, with clear inspiration in hand! Of course, I have tactics to stay on track, such as a row counter and an elastic band to underscore the right place in the chart. I have highlighters and stitch markers at the ready. I can add lifelines to reduce rework after mistakes. Yet, doubt has consumed my thinking and delayed my progress.
Today, I am determined to overcome the intimidation and let inspiration win over self-doubt. This post is a declaration of my commitment to accepting this challenge, one stitch at a time…one row at a time….one chart at a time.
Stay tuned for progress! Happy Knitting!
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