"...it will cut through the noise for those who need to hear it."
—Anne Holloway
I had just posted an amateurish music video to Facebook—a slideshow of photos from a hike with my son, and a song I had written that day. Usually, when I post something like that, I get a few likes and hearts, and maybe a generic comment. But this particular friend, Anne, said that my song was the very thing she needed that morning when she woke up. I told her how much I appreciated her words. I also lamented about how I never know if what I post is reaching anyone.
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She said, "...it will cut through the noise for those who need to hear it."
It made me think, do I want to get my work in front of 100 people who don't care, think I'm a little bit out-of-touch, and annoyed with me? Or would I rather have the full attention of ten people who are enthralled with my work because every word—every song that emerges is telling their story—giving them comfort that they are not alone?
I will remember this next time I am debating posting a creation to Facebook, Instagram, or my email list.
What I have to say, who I am, isn't for everyone. And that's okay. It's too much pressure to be everything to everyone. All I have to do is be me.
All you have to do is be you.
Imagine yourself speaking to that small group of people who love your flaws and quirks. When your inner-critic starts lobbing distractions at you, look it dead in the eyes and say, "this isn't for everyone." Click post. You might be surprised by the connections you make.
100 Days of Songwriting is a motivational and inspirational community that helps songwriters get into the habit of writing.