Sand Dunes

It’s not for me to worry about what other people think of my work.

That is completely outside of my control.

Whether others like it or not, I honestly don’t spend my energy thinking about that at all. I’m not seeking feedback, criticism or approval. I’m focused on my own internal standards. I try to improve those standards as I go. That’s all I’m concerned about.

“Easy for you to say, right? You get many compliments!”

It’s inevitable I get compliments. I have been making music almost daily since the mid 90’s. I release music with many influential labels in my genre (in the past year alone: Metalheadz, R&S Records, Over/Shadow, Reinforced, Dispatch and others). 

Of course I get compliments. You will, too, if you do the same.

I am thankful of the fact that someone wants to say something nice. I really do appreciate the sentiment and effort behind it. It’s not pointless or meaningless. Like the act of giving a gift – it is beautiful in itself. 

It is making a positive contribution to the world and providing an avenue for beneficial relationships to be formed.

But here’s the thing: 

Just as I don’t care for criticism, I also don’t want compliments to have much impact on me or my work.

Frankly, I usually forget about them in seconds. It comes in – and just as quickly it’s out of my head.

Why?

First, nothing becomes better or worse for being praised.

Second, sand dunes.

“Just as sand dunes are always drifting over one another and concealing what came before, so in life also, what comes earlier is very swiftly hidden by all that piles up afterwards.” (Marcus Aurelius, Meditations)

For every person who enjoys something I’ve made, there are many more who couldn’t care less. 

Eventually, my work will be forgotten by everyone. That’s ok. 

Legacy is a product of our imagination. It gives us the illusion of control over an unpredictable universe, making us feel morally superior. It’s an ego-driven, ill-fated bid for everlasting fame. 

Why not focus on enjoying the process instead?

By the time other people are hearing my work for the first time, it’s already well in the past for me. I’ve lost my interest in thinking about it, talking about it or listening to it. I have let go of it and I’m fully focused on something new. 

This week, let’s all focus on creating work that satisfies our own internal standards.

Take pride and joy in your craft.