We are now in the middle of what I’m going to call “the great pause”. I hope you see it as an opportunity for growth. That uncomfortable feeling you’ve been having, it’s the key to a deeper truth. Like you’ve suddenly realized you’ve been distracted for years.
The corona virus outbreak is horrible. It has cost many lives and will cost more. Trillions of dollars have been lost. Yet in the face of this disaster I see a silver lining. There is likely more creativity happening now than in any other time in our lives. The cycle of “Work - Eat - Sleep” has been broken. While it may be financially devastating, the bright side remains. The pause. The reflection. The questioning of meaning.
When we get back to normal, and we will, we will return to our livelihoods with new eyes. Does this job make me happy? Is this just a paycheck? Why do I do what I do? Is it only for money (necessary sometimes) or does this work complete my happiness?
Like many of you, I’ve found I truly love what I do. I feel very fortunate that I’ve made my life what it is. Still, I have found I could be even more efficient at accomplishing the work I want to get done as well as the work I need to get done. I’ve learned I don’t need more time. I need more freedom to use that time in the most efficient way possible.
Some of you will find you’ve just discovered a new talent or passion. Or have returned to work on a hobby or skill you abandoned. If you love it, why not take a shot? Start now. Put wheels in motion so when this is over, you can get started down the path you were meant to travel. Make it a second job until it works. Or fails. Either way, you be happier knowing you tried.
I ask myself all the time, “If I died tomorrow, would I be content with what I left behind?” Still the answer is no. I have more to do.
Now to keep busy working on this new album. So far we have 8 tracks in varying states of doneness. I’m really excited for you all to hear it. It’s been too long since I’ve spent days on days in the studio. Some cool things are coming together in the wake of this disaster.
Thanks for coming to my Ted Talk. ~Stevens
