There are two questions that you need to memorize and train so they become reflexes. I’ll cover the first one today:

Can It Get Any Better?

We often use the reverse question, “Can it get any worse?” in a bizarre attempt to make us feel better by focusing on how bad it could actually be. Unless you’re writing a modern version of Job, that’s the wrong question to ask. Switch your mindset and ask, “Can it get any better?”

Ask yourself this question when you’re feeling down about your creative project. Maybe the painting you were hoping would win accolades from your family actually solicited a “that’s ugly” comment from one of your kids. Perhaps the first document you wrote and submitted for approval to a client came back with a ton of red marks. Or maybe you’re being your own worst critic.

Asking if something can get better can suddenly open the floodgates of your imagination simply because the answer will always be yes. You’re already frustrated, maybe embarrassed, maybe even depressed, so why waste your mental effort on what could be worse? Inspire yourself. Let your imagination focus on what could be better.

Second question coming up next week!